Navarasa

Sanskrit

The nine sentiments of classical aesthetics.

ConceptBharatanatyamKuchipudiOdissiKathak

Meaning

The navarasa are shringara (love), hasya (laughter), karuna (compassion or sorrow), raudra (anger), veera (courage), bhayanaka (fear), bibhatsa (disgust), adbhuta (wonder) and shanta (peace). Shanta was added later than the original eight described in the Natyashastra. Dancers train each one as a distinct facial and bodily state.

Also written: nava rasa, nine rasas

Related words

BhavaThe emotion the performer holds and conveys.RasaThe flavour or sentiment an audience is left tasting.ParamparaAn unbroken line of transmission from guru to student.BaniA school or style of Bharatanatyam, carried down a lineage.ShishyaThe student in the guru-shishya relationship.ArangetramA dancer's first full solo recital before an audience.

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