Question

What leads to a 'perception' when we talk about 'Rasa'?

• A. Bhava
• B. Anubhav
• C. Sthayi Bhava
• D. Vibhava

Hint:

Remember the cause-and-effect relationship in Rasa theory: Vibhava is the \textbf{cause}, and Anubhava is the \textbf{effect}. The perception starts with the cause.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question is about the 'Rasa' theory from the Natyashastra. 'Rasa' is the aesthetic flavour or sentiment that an audience experiences. The question asks what causes or initiates the perception of this emotion.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to Bharata Muni's Rasa Sutra, the experience of Rasa is created by the combination of three elements:
- Vibhava (Determinant): The cause or stimulus for the emotion. It is the determinant that leads to the initial 'perception'. For example, seeing a lion in a play is the Vibhava for the emotion of fear.
- Anubhava (Consequent): The physical manifestations or effects of the emotion, such as wide eyes or trembling in fear.
- Vyabhichari/Sanchari Bhava (Transitory States): Fleeting emotions that support the main emotion, like anxiety or panic.
These three combine to bring forth the Sthayi Bhava (the dominant, latent emotion in a person) and transform it into Rasa. The Vibhava is the primary trigger for this entire process.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Vibhava is the element that leads to the 'perception' or is the cause of the emotion that culminates in Rasa.