Bhava: The Soul of Indian Art

Bhava and its role in ancient Indian art Definition: Bhava refers to the emotion,

mood, or feeling depicted in a work of art; it is the internal state expressed

through external gestures. Soul of Art: If Rupa (form) is the body of the painting,

Bhava is its soul. Without it, a painting is considered "dead." Creation of Rasa:

Bhava is the ingredient that triggers Rasa (aesthetic flavor) in the viewer. For example,

a figure showing sorrow (Shoka) evokes the Compassionate Flavor (Karuna Rasa). Expression: It is

achieved through eye movements (Drishti), hand gestures (Mudras), and body posture (Bhanga).

Viewer Connection: It bridges the gap between the artwork and the spectator, allowing the viewer