Do you know that all forms of Indian classical dance are based on a book called the Natyashastra? It was written by a great sage called Bharatha around the fourth century BC. It is the source of not only all forms of Indian classical dance, but also music and drama. In fact, it is regarded as the fifth Veda.
According to the Natyashastra, all dance forms revolve around the nine rasas or emotions. They are happiness, sorrow, anger, compassion, disgust, wonder, fear, courage and serenity. Hand movements or mudras, are used to express the emotions clearly to the audience. The Natyashastra is the world’s first book on stagecraft. Bharata’s ideas are the key to an understanding of Indian arts, music and sculpture.
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