Dr. Shakuntala Gawde gave a lecture on “Abhinavagupta-Rasa Theory” on 6th February 2019 for ‘Playpen Performing Arts Trust’. She has previously engaged two sessions on Rasa theory. This session was specifically focusing on ‘Abhinavagupta’s understanding of Rasa-sutra. Theatre artists, dancers, painters attended this session. There was discussion on the application of Abhinavagupta’s theoretical framework to contemporary arts. There was discussion on factors needed for the artist for being successful. Different elements which make connoisseur capable for Rasa relish were discussed with examples from contemporary arts. Abhinavagupta understands Rasa as a means to attain the pure bliss which is similar to the bliss of Moksha.
