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The Vedas, sacred scriptures, were accessible only to certain castes. To bridge this gap, Brahma decided to create a fifth Veda, known as the birth of Natyaveda.
A Veda that has the power to transcend the boundaries of castes.
In deep meditation, he delved into the existing Vedas, extracting wisdom from each:
- Ṛgveda contributed the Pāṭhya, the recitative element.
- Sāman offered the melodic song.
- Yajus bestowed the art of histrionic representation (Abhinaya).
- Atharvaveda infused the essence of sentiments (rasa).
From this alchemical fusion, Natyaveda emerged. A treasure trove of artistic expression.
Bharata looks at the Sages who enquired about Natyashastra.
The scholars trace the birth of Natyaveda back to the ancient sage Bharata Muni.
According to the traditional Sanskrit work Natyashastra, Bharata Muni addressed a group of sages seeking his counsel on the art of dramatic performance.
This profound exchange between Bharata Muni and the sages delved deep into the essence of dramatic art, exploring its various dimensions and its role in the society of that time.
The sages were eager to learn from Bharata Muni, the words of the sages, who possessed a vast knowledge of traditional performance, and Bharata Muni, in turn, eagerly shared his insights, offering good counsel and unbiased truth.
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Bharata converses with the Sages about the birth of Natyaveda.
The conversation between Bharata Muni and the sages revealed the significance of traditional performance in the Indian tradition.
Characters:
- Bharata: The renowned sage and author of the Natyashastra.
- Brahma: The creator responsible for the origin of Natyaveda.
- Chorus of Sages: Represent the audience seeking knowledge from Bharata.
- Chorus of Gods: Represent the deities who approached Brahma for a new form of entertainment.
Scene 1:
(The narrator sets the stage with descriptions of ancient India and the changing times.)
Chorus of Sages (Chanting): Oh! Wise Bharata, renowned for your knowledge of Nāṭyaveda, we seek your wisdom. Do share with us the origins of this sacred art form.
Bharata (Rising with respect): Learned sages, your request honors me. Gather close and listen to the tale of Nāṭyaveda’s birth.
(Bharata recounts the gods’ arrival at Brahma’s abode, their desire for engaging entertainment, and Brahma’s subsequent contemplation.)
Chorus of Gods (Singing): We yearn for a spectacle, both seen and heard, a joy for all, divine and earthly. Grant us, oh Brahma, a new art form to elevate our spirits.
Brahma: (Deep in thought) I hear your plea. A fifth Veda shall be born, weaving tales, music, and emotions into a tapestry of delight.
(Bharata describes Brahma’s creation of Nāṭyaveda, drawing elements from the four existing Vedas.)
जग्राह पाठ्यमृग्वेदात्सामभ्यो गीतमेव च ।
यजुर्वेदादभिनयान् रसानाथर्वणादपि ॥ १७॥
Jagrāha pāṭhyamṛgvedātsāmabhyo gītameva ca।
Yajurvedādabhinayān rasānātharvaṇādapi॥ 17॥
Meaning:
The acquisition of various arts from different Vedas, such as Rigveda (recitable), Saṁaveda (song), Yajurveda (expressive gestures), and even Atharvaveda (the science of emotions)
Narrator: From the Rigveda came the spoken word, melodious tunes from the Samaveda, expressive gestures from the Yajurveda, and the Atharvaveda, the spectrum of human emotions. Thus, Natyaveda emerged, a symphony of arts.
Chorus of Sages: (Marvelling) A masterpiece indeed! But who shall carry this art forward, oh Bharata?
Scene 2:
(Bharata explains Brahma’s initial choice of the gods and their inability to handle the responsibility.)
Bharata: Brahma entrusted the Natyaveda to Indra, but the gods lacked the dedication and discipline to nurture it.
उत्पाद्य नाट्यवेदं तु ब्रह्मोवाच सुरेश्वरम् ।
इतिहासो मया सृष्टः स सुरेषु नियुज्यताम् ॥ १९॥
Utpādya nāṭyavedaṁ tu brahmovāca sureśvaram।
Itihāso mayā sṛṣṭaḥ sa sureṣu niyujyatām॥ 19॥
Meaning:
After creating the Natyaveda, Brahma spoke to the lord of gods (Indra), stating that the history created by Brahma should be utilized among the gods.
कुशला ये विदग्धाश्च प्रगल्भाश्च जितश्रमाः ।
तेष्वयं नाट्यसंज्ञो हि वेदः संक्राम्यतां त्वया ॥ २०॥
Kuśalā ye vidagdhāśca pragalbhāśca jitaśramāḥ।
Teṣvayaṁ nāṭyasaṁjño hi vedaḥ saṁkrāmyatāṁ tvayā॥ 20॥
Meaning:
The verse describes skilled, expert, confident individuals who are victorious over fatigue. Among them, the Veda known as Nāṭya (drama) should indeed be crossed by you (Indra).
Chorus of Gods: (Hesitantly) We confess, oh wise one, the depths of Natyaveda demand a commitment we cannot offer.
ग्रहणे धारणे ज्ञाने प्रयोगे चास्य सत्तम ।
अशक्ता भगवन् देवा अयोग्या नाट्यकर्मणि ॥ २२॥
Grahaṇe dhāraṇe jñāne prayoge cāsya sattama।
Aśaktā bhagavan devā ayogyā nāṭyakarmaṇi॥ 22॥
Meaning:
The verse indicates that the gods, being unable in understanding, retention, knowledge, and application of its essence, are unfit for the performance of drama.
Narrator: Recognizing their limitations, the gods humbly returned the responsibility to Brahma.
Scene 3:
(Bharata reveals his own selection and dedication of his sons to mastering Natyaveda.)
Bharata: Brahma then turned to me, Bharata, and my hundred sons. With devotion and perseverance, we embraced the Natyaveda, vowing to preserve its essence.
आज्ञापितो विदित्वाऽहं नाट्यवेदं पितामहात् ।
पुत्रानध्यापयामास प्रयोगं चापि तत्त्वतः ॥ २५॥
Ājñāpito viditvā'haṁ nāṭyavedaṁ pitāmahāt।
Putrānadhvāpayāmāsa prayogaṁ cāpi tattvataḥ॥ 25॥
Meaning:
Having been commanded and knowing it well, I taught the Natyaveda to sons, and also the practice truly from the grandfather (Brahma).
Narrator: Bharata and his sons mastered the intricacies of Natyaveda, preparing to share its gifts with the world.
Chorus of Sages: (Filled with gratitude) Your dedication inspires us, oh Bharata. You have become the custodians of this divine art form.
Bharata: The journey continues, dear sages. Natyaveda awaits its performance to enthrall audiences and illuminate the human experience.
Together, let us ensure its legacy thrives for generations to come.
(The play ends with a sense of anticipation and responsibility, leaving the audience to ponder the power and significance of Natyaveda.)
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Frequently Asked Questions
The story of Natyashastra revolves around the legendary figure of Bharata, an ancient sage who, inspired by the divine, sought to codify the art of dramatic performance. Written in Sanskrit, this seminal work provides a comprehensive guide to the performing arts, touching upon various aspects such as music, dance, theatre, and much more.
Natyashastra is considered a Veda, the fifth Veda, to be precise, alongside the four traditional Vedas of Hinduism. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India, preserving the ancient art forms and serving as a source of inspiration for artists, scholars, and enthusiasts alike.
Natyashastra holds immense fame and recognition due to the invaluable insights it provides into classical Indian music, dance, and theatre. The text offers detailed explanations of the various elements that make up the traditional performance, including the elaborate hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements used in classical dance forms.
It is a guiding force for performers across India (Ancient and Modern), shaping the rich layers of traditional performance art. Natyashastra continues to be studied, revered, and practiced, cementing its place as a cornerstone of classical Indian music, dance, and theatre.
The birth of Natyaveda brought about a transformative impact on traditional Indian theatre. It acknowledged the profound significance of this art form in Indian culture by elevating the art of dramatic performance to the status of the fifth Veda.
Natyaveda redefined the approach to performance, emphasizing naturalistic acting styles, stagecraft, and the use of musical instruments to enhance the overall experience.
This paradigm shift inspired a new generation of performers and ushered in a renaissance in traditional Indian theatre.
Today, the principles and techniques of Nāṭyaveda continue to influence and shape the landscape of theatre and performance art in India and beyond.
The creation of Natyaveda is the collaborative efforts of several key figures, with Bharata Muni at the focal point.
Bharata Muni, the legendary author of the Natyashastra, is considered the primary architect of this art form. Scholars believe that Bharata Muni received divine inspiration from Brahma, the creator god, and then imparted this sacred knowledge to his disciples, who carried forward the teachings and practices of Nāṭyaveda.
The disciples, in turn, became torchbearers of this tradition, ensuring its preservation and evolution over the centuries.
Natyaveda explores multiple themes that delve into the depths of human emotions, virtues, and the eternal quest for truth.
One of the central concepts in Nāṭyaveda is “rasa,” the aesthetic essence of a performance that evokes an emotional response from the audience.
The art of Nāṭyaveda also explores the principles of dharma, the righteous path; vira, the heroic; and bhava, the expression of sentiment.
Together, these themes create a tapestry of human experiences, allowing the audience to connect with the characters, their stories, and the underlying philosophical and moral dilemmas they face.
The name Natyaveda includes the term “Veda,” which refers to the ancient Hindu scriptures. This suggests that Natyaveda draws on traditional knowledge and techniques for contemporary theater, highlighting the importance of storytelling and performance in Indian culture.
Conclusion
The birth of Natyaveda has had a profound impact on traditional Indian theater. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and the deep connection between art, spirituality, and storytelling.
The Natyashastra, created by the sage Bharata, is a masterpiece that has lived for centuries. It guides the various aspects of theater and delves into the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of performance.
The key figures behind the creation of Natyaveda, including Bharata and the sages who enquired about Natyashastra, have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists.
Natyaveda explores many themes, from mythology and history to human emotions and social issues, making it a comprehensive and dynamic art form.
The inclusion of “Veda” in the name signifies the sacredness and importance of Natyaveda in Indian culture.
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At Natya-Shastra.in, our mission is to serve as a gateway to the illustrious world of the Natyashastra. We offer insights, resources, and a platform to delve deeper into the nuances of Indian performing arts.
Also, we aim to bring forth the richness of this ancient text. We try to shed light on the profound wisdom it holds and its everlasting influence on various artistic traditions.
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