Question

Arrange the dramatic expressions in the correct sequence-
(A) Sāttvika
(B) Āhārya
(C) Āṅgika
(D) Vācika
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B), (C), (D)
• B. (A), (D), (C), (B)
• C. (B), (A), (D), (C)
• D. (C), (D), (B), (A)

Hint:

Remember the Abhinaya sequence by thinking about the actor's tools, moving from the physical to the internal: Body (`Āṅgika`), Voice (`Vācika`), Appearance (`Āhārya`), and finally, true Feeling (`Sāttvika`).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The question asks for the correct sequence of the four types of 'Abhinaya' (dramatic expression or acting) as codified in Bharata Muni's Natya Shastra, the foundational text of Indian performing arts.
Step 2: Defining the Types of Abhinaya
(A) Sāttvika: The expression of genuine internal emotional states, such as tears, trembling, or perspiration. It is considered the most subtle and difficult form.
(B) Āhārya: The expression through external aids like costumes, make-up, jewelry, and stage properties.
(C) Āṅgika: The expression conveyed through the movement of the body and limbs (`aṅga`), including gestures (`mudras`), posture, and facial expressions.
(D) Vācika: The expression through voice (`vāc`), including dialogue, tone, pitch, and recitation.
Step 3: Determining the Standard Sequence
While all four forms are used simultaneously in a performance, they are standardly classified in a sequence that moves from the more external and physical to the more internal and subtle. The accepted pedagogical and theoretical order is:
1. Āṅgika (Body)
2. Vācika (Voice)
3. Āhārya (Costume/External)
4. Sāttvika (Internal Emotion/Essence)
This translates to the sequence of codes: (C), (D), (B), (A).
Step 4: Final Answer
The correct sequence is (C), (D), (B), (A), which corresponds to option (D).