Vyangyavyakhya: The Aesthetics of Dhvani in Theatre

Book Detail

• Author: K. G. Paulose
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of Pages: 563
• Release Date: 01-08-2013
• Model Number: NAE964
• Part Number: NAE964
• EAN: 9788124606995
• Package Dimensions: 9.6 x 7.7 x 1.6 inches
• Languages: English

Description

This landmark volume focuses on the doctrine of Dhvani, a concept introduced by Anandavardhana in the 9th century CE, particularly emphasizing its application in Indian theatre. Though Anandavardhana's theory faced initial opposition from his contemporaries in Kashmir, it found widespread acceptance in Kerala, where it was applied by Kulashekhara, a royal dramatist of the same century. His work, known as Vyangyavyakhya (VV), revolutionized Indian theatre by interpreting implied meanings, marking a significant deviation from Bharata’s national tradition. This innovation became foundational for several classical forms of Indian theatre, including Kutiyattam, Krishnanattam, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam.

Key Highlights:

• First Publication of VV: For the first time, the Vyangyavyakhya (VV), a performance text of Kulashekhara, is published, making it accessible for the first time in modern scholarship.
• Innovative Contribution: The introduction of Dhvani to theatre marked an epoch in the development of Indian performing arts, especially Sanskrit theatre. The work of Kulashekhara laid the foundation for the classical forms of theatre practiced in Kerala today.
• Scholarly Introduction: Four eminent scholars—K.D. Tripathy, Radhavallabh Tripathi, N.P. Unni, and Kavalam Narayana Panikkar—provide in-depth introductions and discussions on the significance of VV in the history of Indian theatre.
• Historical Context: The book delves into the development of Sanskrit theatre until the 10th century CE, covering performance texts like Dhananjayadhvani and Samvaranadhvani, along with the post-Kulashekhara era developments.
• Practical Guide for Practitioners: This volume serves as a comprehensive guide for students, teachers, and practitioners of Indian performing arts, with a particular focus on the applications of Dhvani in modern interpretations of ancient plays.

This scholarly work is an essential resource for those interested in the theory and practice of Indian theatre, offering deep insights into the historical evolution and continuing relevance of Dhvani in contemporary performance traditions.