Bhaktirasa The Aesthetics of Devotion

Introduction

Theory of Rasa as discussed by Muni Bharata in Natyashastra has remained prominent within the various schools of dance, music and drama since ages. The subject of how the Rasa theory evolved, starting from the Abhinavabharati commentary by Shri Abhinavagupta—an Acharya of the Kashmir Shaiva tradition—until its full acceptance within the devotional practices of the Vaishnava and Shaiva schools, has remained an untouched area of research.

Abhinav Gupta’s commentary is significant to re-examine existing schools of thought, introducing novel ideas like the inclusion of the ninth Rasa; Shanta Rasa as observed in the condition of Samadhi when a Yogi experiences non-dualistic association with Bhagwan Shiva, and establishes a benchmark for subsequent studies. Shri Vallabhacharya and Shri Rupa Goswami from Shri Chaitanya Paramapara argued upon Bhakti being independent Rasa adding upon the emotion of relishment experienced by a devotee in Vaishnava Parampara. 

The primary components of experiential Rasa—namely Sthayi Bhava, Sanchari Bhava, Anubhava, and Vibhava—have been successfully demonstrated by the Acharyas to operate within the context of Bhakti Rasa (devotional sentiment). This crucial extension of the theory opened up a new area of understanding by proving that Rasa contains a self-relishable element. Consequently, the purpose of Rasa is not solely to fulfill the traditional requirement of pleasing the audience and invoking emotions accordingly, but also serves as a valid and complete spiritual experience in its own right.

Course Objectives

• To trace the Upanishadic explanation of Rasa
• Development of Natyashastra – expanding theory of Rasa
• Addition of Shaanta, Vatsalya and Bhakti Rasa
• Exploring the element of Rasa within Bhakti in Shaivaite and Vaishnavite traditions
• Establishment of Bhakti as Rasa along with its components
• To develop the concept of self-relishment within Rasa theory

Course Outcomes

• Historical development within the theory of Rasa
• Abhinavagupta’s contribution in exploring the area of Rasa
• Experiential elements within Bhakti Rasa
• Philosophical aspect of Advaita within Rasa
• Devotional practices containing element of relishment
• Shri Vallabhacharya and Shri Rupa Goswami’s contribution in establishing Krishna Bhakti as Rasa

Course Syllabus

• Brahman explained as the source of Rasa
• Natyashastra of Muni Bharata explaining the philosophical aspect of Rasa
• Abhinava Gupta’s commentary and exclusion of Shaanta Rasa as per the Kashmir school of Shaivism
• Puranas and Shastras re-examining the element of relishment as Rasa
• Shri Vallabhacharya elaborating the self-experienceable aspect of Bhakti Rasa
• Shri Rupa Goswami in Bhakti-rasamrita-sindhu elaborating the elements of Rasa in Bhakti

Reading List

• 6th chapter of Natyashastra of Muni Bharata
• Abhinava Gupta’s commentary – Abhinavabharati
• Bhaktirasatva-vaad by Shri Purushottam
• Bhakti-rasamrita-sindhu of Shri Rupa Goswami

Course Features

• Live Interactive Sessions: Engage in live lectures with opportunities for Q&A
• Flexible Learning: Access recorded sessions and course materials at your convenience
• Certificate of Completion: Earn a certificate upon successfully completing the course

*Important Enrollment Notice: Please note that this course requires a minimum of 15 registrations to commence. If the required number of students is not met, enrolled participants will be notified promptly and provided with options for a full refund or alternative courses.