Question

In indian dance history what is the period between 2nd century

b.c. to 9th century

a.d. called

Answer 1

All the prevalent forms of classical dancing in

India today claim their origin in Natya Shastra, an ancient

canonical work outlining the theory and practice of the art

of theatre and dance (Natya), written by the sage Bharata.

Among all Indian dance techniques, Bharata Natya, as now

practised, most closely conforms in spirit and procedure,

to the clear outlines of Bharata*s Natya Shastra.

''Among the many forms and styles, there is one which

is called the ekaharya lasyanga in the Natyasastra. In this

form, there is one actor playing many roles. The Natyasastra,

in this context, also speaks of the actor as the narrator.

Instead of many actors presenting a dramatic story the solo

actor presents, through the four types of ahhinaya, the

particular dominant state (Sthayi bhava).-The present Bharata

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Natyam can be traced back to this form.* *

Bharata figures in Indian mythology as a combined

sage and patron saint of dance and drama, so much so that

his Natya Shastra Is also referred to as the fifth Veda.