Natyasastram by Bharata Muni | 2 Volume Set by M.M. Ghosh | Ancient Indian Dramaturgy & Histrionics | English Translation

A Treatise on Ancient Indian Dramaturgy and Histrionics: Natyasastram (2 Vol. Set) translated by M.M. Ghosh is the most respected English rendering of the legendary Natyashastra, attributed to Bharata Muni.

The Natyashastra is the foundational text of Indian classical dance, drama, music, stagecraft, aesthetics, theatre theory, emotions (rasa) and the science of performance.
This 2-volume set brings together detailed verses, explanations, technical terms, stage directions, rasa theory, gesture science, musicology, and many components of India’s performing arts heritage.

The translator, M.M. Ghosh, preserves the authenticity of the original Sanskrit while presenting it in accessible scholarly English.

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✨ Why This Book Is Important

✔ The primary source of Indian Dramaturgy and performing arts
✔ Detailed explanation of Rasa, Bhava, Mudras, Acting, Stagecraft and Dance
✔ Essential reference for Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and theatrical studies
✔ Scholarly English translation with critical notes
✔ Perfect for researchers, teachers, performers, Indologists, and students of Indian aesthetics

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📚 What You Will Learn in This Book

🔹 Foundations of Indian Dramaturgy

• Origin and purpose of drama according to Bharata Muni

• Division of drama, theatre structure, and stage organization

🔹 Rasa–Bhava Theory

• The famous Rasa Sutra

• The eight (later nine) Rasas

• Corresponding Bhavas and psychological principles

🔹 Acting & Histrionics

• Body movements, facial expressions, hand gestures (Mudras)

• Vocal expressions and stylization

• Use of props, costumes, ornaments

🔹 Dance & Movement Science

• Types of dances

• Coordination of movement and rhythm

• Techniques of classical performance

🔹 Music & Rhythm

• Structure of Tala and Laya

• Musical accompaniment

• Song types used in stage performance

🔹 Technical Aspects of Stagecraft

• Stage design and preparation

• Actor qualifications

• Dramatic compositions and play structure

This set provides complete and authentic coverage of classical Indian performing arts.

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🎯 Who Should Read This Book?

✔ Students of Classical Dance & Theatre
✔ Researchers of Bharata Muni and Sanskrit texts
✔ Practitioners of Natyashastra-based art forms
✔ Drama teachers, choreographers, musicologists
✔ Indology and performing arts scholars
✔ Libraries and academic institutions

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❓ FAQs

1. Is this the complete Natyasastra?

Yes. This is a 2-volume complete English translation by M.M. Ghosh.

2. Is it suitable for beginners?

It is scholarly but readable. Good for both students and researchers.

3. Is Sanskrit included?

Yes, many verses are included with English translation and explanation.

4. Is this the original Bharata Muni text?

It is the accepted English translation based on available manuscripts.

5. Who is the publisher?

Chaukhambha — known for classical Sanskrit and Indology publications.