The interconnectedness of Rasa and Bhava in Indian art from "summary" of A Modern Introduction to Indian Aesthetic Theory by Surendra Sheodas Barlingay
Rasa and Bhava are two key components in Indian art that are intricately interconnected. Rasa refers to the aesthetic experience or emotional flavor that is evoked in the audience when they engage with a work of art. Bhava, on the other hand, are the emotional states or psychological conditions expressed by the actors or performers in the artwork. While Rasa is the effect experienced by the audience, Bhava is the cause that generates that effect. The relationship between Rasa and Bhava is such that the audience is able to experience Rasa only when the Bhavas expressed by the actors are presented in a convincing and authentic manner. In other words, the Bhavas must be effectively communicated in order to evoke the desired Rasa in the audience. This dynamic relationship between Rasa and Bhava highlights the importance of the performer in Indian art forms. It is the skillful expression of Bhavas by the performer that enables the audience to experience Rasa. Therefore, the performer plays a crucial role in creating a meaningful and impactful artistic experience for the audience. Furthermore, the interconnectedness of Rasa and Bhava underscores the idea that art is a deeply emotional and sensory experience. It is through the expression of Bhavas and the evocation of Rasa that art is able to elicit profound emotional responses and connections from the audience. This emotional resonance is what makes Indian art forms so powerful and captivating.- Rasa and Bhava are inextricably linked in Indian art, with Bhava serving as the foundation upon which Rasa is built. The effective expression of Bhavas by the performer is what enables the audience to experience the full range of emotional flavors and aesthetic responses that are characteristic of Indian art forms.
