Nāṭya Shāstra

Nāṭya Shāstra is an ancient Indian treatise on performing arts, authored by Bharata around the 2nd century BCE. It systematically outlines the principles of drama, dance, music, and stagecraft, serving as a comprehensive guide for theatrical performance. The text emphasizes expressing emotions (bhava), evoking sentiments (rasa), and using gestures, costumes, and music to create compelling storytelling. Considered the foundational framework for Indian performing arts, Nāṭya Shāstra combines philosophy, aesthetics, and technical guidelines to craft immersive and expressive performances that aim to invoke spiritual and emotional resonance with audiences.