Nandikeshwar’s Abhinaya Darpanam, Sanskrit Text With English Translation | Manomohan Ghosh

Nandikeshwar’s Abhinaya Darpanam, published by Jyoti Enterprises, is a renowned classical treatise on Indian dance, abhinaya (expression), mudras, and performance arts. This revised and enlarged edition presents the original Sanskrit text along with English translation, scholarly notes, introduction, and illustrative explanations for students and researchers of Indian classical arts.

Traditionally attributed to Nandikeshwara, this timeless work is considered one of the foundational texts for understanding the principles of Bharatanatyam, Natya, and classical Indian aesthetics. The text explains various forms of expression including facial gestures, hand mudras, body movements, emotional states, and dramatic presentation techniques used in Indian classical dance traditions.

This critically edited edition has been prepared from original manuscripts and enhanced with explanatory notes to help modern readers understand the depth and symbolism of traditional performance theory. The inclusion of illustrations further improves practical understanding for dancers and students.

The book serves not only as a technical guide for performers but also as an important cultural and literary document reflecting India’s rich artistic heritage.

📌 Kitabkunj Recommendation: An essential reference for Bharatanatyam students, dance teachers, performing artists, Sanskrit scholars, and researchers of Indian classical traditions.

🌟 Key Features

• Original Sanskrit text with English translation
• Revised & enlarged scholarly edition
• Includes notes, introduction & illustrations
• Covers mudras, abhinaya & classical dance principles
• Critically edited from traditional manuscripts

🎯 Best For

• Bharatanatyam students and teachers
• Classical dance practitioners
• Natya Shastra researchers
• Sanskrit and performing arts scholars
• Indian culture and heritage enthusiasts