The relationship between Bhava and Rasa from "summary" of A Modern Introduction to Indian Aesthetic Theory by Surendra Sheodas Barlingay
Bhava, the inner state or mood, and Rasa, the aesthetic experience or emotion, are two fundamental concepts in Indian Aesthetic Theory. Bhava provides the raw material for the creation of Rasa, as it serves as the emotional or psychological condition that gives rise to the aesthetic experience. Without Bhava, Rasa cannot be experienced, as it is the source from which Rasa emerges.
In the aesthetic process, Bhava acts as the cause and Rasa as the effect. The relationship between Bhava and Rasa is akin to that of a seed and a fruit - Bhava is the seed that is sown, nurtured, and eventually bears the fruit of Rasa. Just as a seed transforms into a tree that bears fruit, Bhava transforms into Rasa, which is then savored by the aesthetic connoisseur.
Bhava is the internal, subjective, and personal experience that is projected outwardly to create Rasa, which is the shared, universal, and objective aesthetic experience. Bhava is individualistic, arising from the artist's creativity and the spectator's identification with the artwork, while Rasa is universal, transcending individual differences and appealing to the collective human experience.
The artist's ability to evoke Bhava and transform it into Rasa is what makes a work of art successful. The artist's skill lies in creating Bhavas that resonate with the audience and evoke the desired emotional response, thereby leading to the experience of Rasa. Through the skillful portrayal of Bhavas, the artist is able to transport the audience from their mundane reality to a heightened aesthetic experience.The relationship between Bhava and Rasa is integral to Indian Aesthetic Theory as it elucidates the process by which the inner emotional states are transformed into aesthetic experiences. Bhava acts as the seed that germinates into Rasa, which is then relished by the spectator. This dynamic interplay between Bhava and Rasa underscores the significance of emotions in art and the transformative power of aesthetic experiences.
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