Natyashastra, Brihaddeshi, Sangita Damodara
Why it Matters?
In line with NEP 2020, NCERT has launched new arts textbooks—Bansuri (Classes 3–5) and Kriti (Classes 6–8)—integrating Indian classical music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. Drawing from texts like Natyashastra and Brihaddeshi, the curriculum introduces swar, ragas, and classical dance forms, fostering cultural appreciation among schoolchildren.
What You Should Know? Natya Shastra
It was composed by Bharata Muni between 200 BCE and 200 CE.
It is the earliest and most comprehensive Sanskrit text on performing arts in India.
The treatise deals with dance (Nritta), drama (Natya), and music (Gana).
It describes fundamentals of classical dance such as karanas (movements), abhinaya (expressions), and mudras (hand gestures).
It provides instructions on stage construction, playwriting, costumes, and makeup.
It explains the role of gana (music), tala (rhythm), and musical instruments in performances.
The text is regarded as the foundation of all Indian classical dance and drama traditions.
Brihaddeshi
It was composed by Matanga Muni between the 6th and 8th century CE.
It is a significant Sanskrit treatise in the history of Indian classical music.
The text is credited with introducing the concept of Raga, which later became the central element of Indian music.
It distinguishes between Marga (traditional/classical style) and Desi (regional/popular style) of music.
The treatise discusses different musical forms, patterns, and their emotional effects on listeners.
It highlights the evolution of Indian music from Vedic traditions to regional styles.
The work provides a bridge between ancient texts like Natya Shastra and later medieval musicological works.
Sangita Damodara
Sangita Damodara was composed in the 15th century CE by Shubhankara.
It is a Sanskrit treatise dealing with theoretical aspects of music, dance, and drama.
The text categorizes dance forms into Angahara (movements) and Nrtya (expressive dance).
It makes a clear distinction between Tandava (vigorous/masculine style) and Lasya (graceful/feminine style).
The treatise reflects the integration of music, rhythm, and dramatic expression in Indian classical performing arts.
It is considered an important medieval continuation of the Natya Shastra tradition.