Abhinaya in Indian Performing Arts

Abhinaya is the representational aspect of dance where a text or poem is interpreted by the dancer to evoke “rasa” in the spectators. It deals with the sentiment and emotions of the song, using the technique of the dance style. There are four kinds of Abhinaya as follows:

• Angika Abhinaya: Use of Body and Limbs.
• Vachika Abhinaya: Use of song and speech
• Aharya Abhinaya: Use of costumes and adornment
• Satvika Abhinaya: Use of moods and emotions

Angika Abhinaya

Angika Abhinaya is shown by movements of limbs. It is performed with Angas (major limbs) Upangas (minor limbs) Pratyangas (auxiliary limbs). Angika Abhinaya depends on the gestures of the hands, fingers, eyes, eyebrows, eyeballs etc. along with the whole body.

Vachika Abhinaya

Vachika Abhinaya constitutes “Kavyas” (poems) and “Natakas” (dramas). In dance, Vachika abhinaya mainly includes the music accompanying the dance. It is usually a lyrical or narrative poetry, set to swaras (notes) or melody in a given tala (rhythmic cycle).

Aharya Abhinaya

Aharya abhinaya includes the decoration of the body by means of makeup and costume.

Satvika Abhinaya

Satvika abhinaya is performed with Satvika emotions. According to Abhinaya Darpana motionlessness, perspiration, state of being horrified, change of voice.