Shall We Dance : Chapter 16 Summary : Navarasas

Shantha eloquently describes the Navarasas as the essence of Bharatanatyam, weaving emotions into a visual symphony.

She explained how the nine rasas — Shringara (love), Hasya (laughter), Karuna (compassion), Raudra (anger), Veera (heroism), Bhayanaka (fear), Bibhatsa (disgust), Adbhuta (wonder), and Shanta (peace) — form the foundation of storytelling in this classical art form.

Shantha emphasized that these emotions allow the dancer to connect deeply with the audience, transcending language and cultural barriers. Through precise expressions and gestures, each rasa brings a unique shade of human experience to life.

She beautifully highlighted how the balance of these emotions creates harmony in a performance. “The Navarasas”.