Navarasa – the Nine basic Emotions

This series of nine sketches, called Navarasa, captures the essence of basic human emotions.

The woman depicted in each sketch is a conduit for the nine emotions, showcasing the beauty and complexity of the human spirit.

This sketch evokes a sense of gentle happiness, a quiet joy

This sketch portrays a deep sorrow, the kind that makes your heart ache.

This sketch is filled with fear, a primal instinct that makes us want to flee.

This is a burst of laughter, pure and unadulterated joy.

This sketch depicts anger, a fiery passion that can consume us.

This sketch is a picture of disgust, a feeling of revulsion and rejection.

This sketch shows a state of wonder, a sense of awe and amazement.

The sketch is a portrayal of satisfaction, a feeling of self-importance and superiority.

This sketch is a quiet contemplation, a moment of introspection and reflection.

These simple lines shows the nuances of each emotion. Each sketch tells a story, invites the viewer to connect with the depicted emotion, and ultimately reminds us of the vast spectrum of human feelings.

Navarasa is a powerful reminder that we are all capable of experiencing a range of emotions, and that each emotion, no matter how fleeting or intense, is a part of what makes us human.

Navarasa, the concept of the nine emotions, is an integral part of Indian art and culture, particularly in dance, theatre, music, painting, and sculpture. The term “Navarasa” comes from Sanskrit, where “Nava” means nine and “Rasa” means emotions. These emotions are essential for artists to connect with their audience by conveying deep emotional experiences. The concept originates from ancient Indian texts like the Natya Shastra and was expanded by philosophers like Abhinavagupta.Here are the nine emotions, or Navarasas, along with their meanings:

1. Shringara (Love): This emotion encompasses romantic love, beauty, and affection. It is often depicted in classical Indian dances like Bharatanatyam and Kathak through graceful movements and expressions of romantic and devotional themes.
2. Hasya (Laughter): The emotion of joy and humor, Hasya lightens the mood and provides relief from serious moments. It is expressed through smiles, laughter, and comedic situations, often used in plays and performances to engage the audience.
3. Karuna (Compassion): This emotion involves empathy and understanding of another’s sadness. It arises from sorrow and is depicted through expressions of compassion and empathy in art and performance.
4. Raudra (Anger): Raudra represents anger and is often associated with intense emotions like fury and wrath. It is depicted through aggressive gestures and expressions in performances.
5. Veera (Heroism): This emotion embodies courage, bravery, and heroism. It is depicted through powerful and confident expressions and movements, often representing heroic acts and valor.
6. Bhayanaka (Fear): Bhayanaka represents fear and is expressed through gestures and expressions that convey anxiety, horror, and unease. It is used to evoke suspense and tension in performances.
7. Bibhatsa (Disgust): This emotion is associated with aversion and disgust. It is depicted through expressions of distaste and revulsion, often used to highlight unpleasant or disturbing situations.
8. Adbhuta (Wonder): Adbhuta represents amazement and surprise. It is depicted through expressions of awe and fascination, often used to convey the beauty and mystery of the world.
9. Shanta (Peace): Added later by philosopher Abhinavagupta, Shanta represents peace and tranquility. It is depicted through calm and serene expressions, embodying a state of inner peace.

The Navarasas provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and expressing human emotions, allowing artists to create rich and engaging narratives that resonate with audiences on a deeper emotional level.