The foundation of the Indian aesthetic theory can be traced toBharatamunis Natyashastra where he gave his theory of beauty(theory of rasa) which was later elaborately developed by learnedscholars. In this work, Prof. Barlingay examines the development ofthe rasa theory by various authorities on art and aesthetics andfinally presents his own critical understanding of it.
The volumebegins with a survey of the history of Indian art by examiningpainstakingly the relation between art and beauty, perception oftime and space in art, and classification of arts. It then plungesinto a detailed study of origin and development of rasa theory:from rasa in the Vedas and Upanishads to Bharatas rasa theory andperspectives of Abhinavagupta, Bhattatauta, Bhatta Lollata,Kuntaka, Dandin, Mammata, Vamana, Rudrata, Vishvanatha, Bhamaha,Jagannatha and others who enriched it further with their owntheories.
It explains how principles were employed and re-employedby the masters to reveal various meanings, inter-relationships,symbols, and perceptions of art. It highlights the salient featuresof each masters unique manner of interpretation of art concepts.The work is a must for scholars and students keen to study thefundamentals of concept and theory of Indian art, particularly withreference to drama and poetics.
