Question

According to Natyashastra, Ranga-bhumi and Ranga mandala means...

• A. Stage and Nepathya
• B. Nepathya and Rangsala
• C. Rangsala and Preksagrah
• D. Stage and Mattavarini

Hint:

Remember the three main divisions of a classical Indian theatre: 'Nepathya' (backstage/greenroom), 'Ranga' (stage), and 'Preksagriha' (auditorium). 'Ranga' itself has subdivisions like 'Rangapitha' and 'Rangashirsha'.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the meaning of terms related to the structure of the ancient Indian theatre as described in the Natyashastra.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Natyashastra provides detailed architectural plans for a theatre house ('Natyamandapa').
- Ranga-bhumi or Ranga-pitha refers to the stage floor, the area where the performance takes place.
- Ranga-mandala refers to the entire stage area or the stage-house itself, which is also called the Rangsala.
- The auditorium, or the seating area for the spectators, is called the Preksagriha (or Preksagrah).
The question asks what `Ranga-bhumi` and `Ranga mandala` mean together. This combination refers to the entire performance space, encompassing both the stage itself and the larger structure it is part of, which includes the auditorium. Therefore, 'Rangsala' (stage-house) and 'Preksagrah' (auditorium) best represent the complete theatrical space being described.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The terms broadly refer to the Stage-house (Rangsala) and the Auditorium (Preksagrah).