Question

The "Rasa Theory," essential to Indian aesthetics, was primarily developed by which scholar?

• A. Bharata Muni
• B. Kalidasa
• C. Abhinavagupta
• D. Panini

Hint:

{Rasa Theory:} Introduced in the {Natyashastra by Bharata Muni}, elaborated by {Abhinavagupta}.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The concept of Rasa (aesthetic emotion) originates from the Natyashastra of Bharata Muni. However, the theory was further elaborated and philosophically developed by the Kashmiri scholar Abhinavagupta in his commentary called Abhinavabharati. Abhinavagupta expanded the interpretation of rasa and explained how artistic performances evoke aesthetic experience in the audience. The traditional rasas include:

• Shringara (love)
• Hasya (laughter)
• Karuna (compassion)
• Raudra (anger)
• Veera (heroism)
• Bhayanaka (fear)
• Bibhatsa (disgust)
• Adbhuta (wonder)
• Shanta (peace)

Step 1: Identify the scholar who developed the theory further.
Although Bharata Muni introduced the concept, Abhinavagupta provided the most influential interpretation and development of Rasa Theory.
Step 2: Eliminate other options.

• Bharata Muni introduced rasa but did not elaborate it philosophically as Abhinavagupta did.
• Kalidasa was a classical Sanskrit poet and playwright.
• Panini was a grammarian known for Sanskrit grammar.

Thus, the scholar who primarily developed the Rasa Theory is Abhinavagupta.