- The Natya Shastra is a comprehensive treatise on the performing arts, including dance, music, and drama.
- It consists of 36 chapters and provides detailed instructions on various aspects of dance, such as movements, gestures, facial expressions, costumes, makeup, and stage design.
- Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra not only focuses on the technical aspects of dance but also delves into the aesthetics, emotions, and spiritual dimensions of the art form.
- The text categorizes dance into various types, such as Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic dance).
- It also describes the nine rasas (emotions) that form the basis of Indian classical dance, including love, joy, anger, compassion, disgust, heroism, fear, wonder, and tranquility.
- Bharat Muni's Natya Shastra has played a significant role in shaping and preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali.
- Today, dancers and scholars continue to study and interpret the Natya Shastra to ensure the authenticity and evolution of Indian classical dances.
In conclusion, Bharat Muni is the author of the Natya Shastra, which is considered the main source of knowledge for Indian classical dances. His work has had a profound impact on the development and practice of these dance forms over centuries.

Natya Shastra - The Main Source of Indian Classical Dances

The correct answer is option 'A' - Bharat Muni. Bharat Muni is attributed to be the author of the Natya Shastra, which is considered the main source of Indian classical dances. Let's delve into the details of this answer:

Natya Shastra:
The Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian treatise on performing arts, particularly drama and dance. It is believed to have been written by Bharat Muni, a sage and scholar, around the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE. The text consists of 36 chapters and provides comprehensive guidelines on various aspects of performing arts, including dance, music, theater, and aesthetics.

Author - Bharat Muni:
Bharat Muni is regarded as the author of the Natya Shastra. Though not much is known about his personal life, he is considered a revered figure in the field of performing arts. Bharat Muni's work on the Natya Shastra is highly influential and has had a profound impact on the development of Indian classical dances.

Contributions of Natya Shastra:
The Natya Shastra is an extensive and detailed text that covers a wide range of topics related to performing arts. Some of its key contributions include:

1. Theory of Drama: The Natya Shastra offers a comprehensive theory of drama, encompassing elements such as plot, character, emotion, and aesthetics. It outlines the different types of plays, their structures, and the roles of various theatrical elements.

2. Dance Forms and Techniques: One of the significant sections of the Natya Shastra focuses on dance. It describes various dance forms, including the classical dance styles of Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kathakali, and Manipuri. The text provides detailed instructions on body movements, hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and rhythm (tala) for each dance form.

3. Music and Instruments: The Natya Shastra also delves into the theory and practice of music. It explains the principles of melody, rhythm, and tonal quality. Additionally, it mentions various musical instruments and their classifications.

4. Stagecraft and Costumes: The treatise provides guidance on stage design, lighting, makeup, and costumes. It outlines the use of different types of stages, curtains, and props to enhance the visual appeal of the performance.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Bharat Muni is attributed to be the author of the Natya Shastra, which is considered the main source of Indian classical dances. His work has played a crucial role in shaping the theoretical foundations and practice of performing arts in India. The Natya Shastra continues to be a valuable reference for dancers, musicians, and theater practitioners, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Indian classical dances.