Indian poetics and Asthetics

 This blog is part of thinking Activity assigned by Dilip Barad sir as part of Expert lectures by Vinod Joshi sir.

Indian poetics is the ancient poetics especially sanskrit poetics. Every literature has roots and beginnings so as Sanskrit literature. Sanskrit literature and poetics worked hand in hand eastablished various theory of poetics. Rasa, Vakrokti, Alamkara, Auchitya, Riti etc. are branches of Indian poetics. Inadian poetics provides deeper understanding-तलावगाहन for literature.

Here are my notes based on Vinod Joshi sirs lecture:

15th January 2025 – Introduction to Indian Poetics

The Essence of Language in Literature: Insights from Indian Poetics

"We know language, but we don’t know anything about it." – Robert Bringhurst

Language is the foundation of literature. It serves as both the medium of expression and the vessel that carries meaning, emotions, and artistic beauty. While we are born with the ability to produce sound (swara) and movement (chalana), language emerges as an evolved form of these fundamental capabilities. In the study of Indian poetics, understanding the nature of language is crucial to appreciating how literature conveys deeper truths.

From birth, human beings possess two natural abilities:

1. Sound (Swara) – The primary faculty that later evolves into speech, music, and poetic rhythm.

2. Movement (Chalana) – The instinctual ability to move, which finds artistic expression in dance and gestures.

These two elements sound and movement form the basis of all artistic expressions, including poetry, music, and dance. Indian poetics acknowledges that language itself is a sophisticated transformation of these primal instincts.

Swara → Language → Music → Melody (Sura)

In Indian aesthetics, the purest forms of expression are often considered those that transcend verbal language, such as wordless music and dance. These art forms communicate profound emotions and truths without the need for spoken words, making them the most refined artistic outcomes.

The Concept of ‘Tv’ (ત્વ) in Indian Thought

A significant concept in Indian poetics is "त्व" (Tv), which refers to the essence of a thing. Just as a table and a tree are distinct objects, their true nature (त्व) is what defines their essence. This concept implies that every object or entity has an intrinsic quality that makes it what it is.

In poetry and literature, the role of language is to move beyond the superficial and capture the true essence of emotions, experiences, and realities. Indian poetics often emphasizes that the success of a literary work lies in its ability to reveal this intrinsic truth.

Language and Its Limitations

A fascinating perspective in Indian poetics is that when something is fully understood, language becomes unnecessary. This idea is beautifully illustrated in the classical Indian love story of Dushyanta and Shakuntala from the Mahabharata. Their profound connection is such that words are no longer needed to communicate their emotions. In the ideal form of communication, words serve merely as a bridge to meaning—once the meaning is grasped, the bridge itself is no longer required.

This aligns with the Sanskrit concept of भाषा - भवांतर (Bhāṣā - Bhāvāntara), meaning that language is merely a medium for conveying deeper emotions and transformations of thought. True understanding transcends words.

16 January 2025 : The Schools of Indian Poetics and the Concept of Bhava

1. Understanding Bhava (भाव)

Bhava refers to feelings, emotions, and expressions that shape artistic and literary experiences. It is the core of aesthetic appreciation, where beauty is not only found in external form but also within the depth of emotions.

2. Major Schools of Indian Poetics

Indian poetics has evolved through various schools of thought, each emphasizing different aspects of literary beauty:

1. Rasa School (Rasa Sampradaya) – Bharata Muni

Focuses on the concept of rasa, the aesthetic experience derived from art.

2. Dhvani School (Dhvani Sampradaya) – Anandavardhana

Emphasizes suggestion (Dhvani) as the soul of poetry.

3. Vakrokti School (Vakrokti Sampradaya) – Kuntaka

Highlights the role of figurative expression and stylistic deviation in literature.

4. Alankara School (Alankara Sampradaya) – Bhamaha

Centers on rhetorical devices (Alankaras) as key to poetic beauty.

5. Riti School (Riti Sampradaya) – Vamana

Defines poetry based on the structure and style (Riti) of writing.

6. Aucitya School (Aucitya Sampradaya) – Kshemendra

Stresses the importance of appropriateness (Aucitya) in literature.

7. Ramaniya School (Ramaniyata Sampradaya) – Jagannatha

Focuses on the delightful and charming nature of literary works.

These schools have played a vital role in shaping the growth of Indian literature, as seen in classical works like Abhijnana Shakuntalam and Magha’s Shishupalavadha.

3. Plato vs. Bharata Muni on Literature

Plato, in The Republic, criticized literature, believing it to be harmful to society.

In contrast, Bharata Muni, in Natyashastra, sees drama and literature as essential for human experience and artistic expression.

4. The Nature of Bhavas and Rasas

Bharata Muni, in the 6th chapter of Natyashastra, describes emotions as natural (Naisargika) and present in all living beings. Bhavas arise in favorable conditions and remain dormant otherwise.

The Nine Bhavas (Navarasa) and Their Corresponding Rasas:

1. Rati (Love) → Shringara (Romantic/Beauty)

2. Shoka (Grief) → Karuna (Compassion/Tragedy)

3. Utsaha (Enthusiasm) → Veera (Heroic)

4. Krodha (Anger) → Raudra (Fury)

5. Hasa (Laughter) → Hasya (Comedy)

6. Bhaya (Fear) → Bhayanaka (Horror)

7. Jugupsa (Disgust) → Bibhatsa (Repulsive)

8. Vismaya (Wonder) → Adbhuta (Marvelous)

9. Kshama (Peace) → Shanta (Serenity)

While these emotions can be controlled (resisted), they cannot be completely eliminated.

 Types of Drama in Indian Poetics

1. Drishya Nataka (Visual Play) – Performed before an audience.

2. Shravya Nataka (Auditory Play) – Meant for listening, like radio plays.

3. Pathya Nataka (Reading Play) – Designed to be read rather than performed.

A successful drama requires continuity (Anusandhana) to keep the audience engaged, as the emotional journey is central to the experience of rasa.

17 January 2025 : The Process of Rasa Realization in Indian Poetics

In Indian poetics, the experience of rasa (aesthetic essence) emerges from the interaction of Vibhava (Determinants), Anubhava (Consequents), and Vyabhichari Bhava (Transient Emotions). As Bharata Muni states in Natyashastra:

विभावानुव्यभिचारीसंयोगादरासनिष्पति।

(Vibhavānuvyabhicārīsaṁyogādarāsaniṣpati.)

"Through the combination of Vibhava, Anubhava, and Vyabhichari Bhava, rasa is realized."

1. Vibhava (Determinants of Emotion)

Vibhava forms the foundation of the aesthetic experience and is categorized into two types:

Alambana (Support) – The main character or object that evokes an emotion.

Udipana (Stimuli) – External elements that enhance the emotional effect, such as a garden, moonlight, fragrance, or atmosphere.

Example (Romantic Poetry):

In romantic poetry, the scent of flowers or the sight of a moonlit night (Udipana) enhances love (Alambana). The fragrance of jasmine (Udipana) during a spring evening can intensify feelings of longing and attachment, making the emotional experience of love more vivid.

2. Anubhava (Consequents or Reactions)

Anubhava refers to the physical and emotional responses that express an inner state. These are reactions that occur in response to the emotional stimuli provided by Vibhava.

Example (Manoj Khanderia):

"Everyone kept looking at me, but only she lowered her eyelids."

Here, the act of lowering the eyelids is a physical manifestation of Anubhava, conveying a deep emotional response such as shyness or love.

3. Vyabhichari Bhava (Transient Emotions)

These fleeting emotions arise and fade but influence the dominant rasa. Mammatā identifies 33 such emotions, including anxiety, joy, hesitation, and more. Like waves in the ocean, they come and go but never stay permanently. They temporarily influence the emotional atmosphere, adding layers of complexity to the rasa.

Example (Vyabhichari Bhava):

The sudden appearance of joy or anxiety in a character, even if momentary, can shift the emotional tenor of the work, such as a fleeting smile in a tragic scene that gives a momentary sense of relief, only to be replaced by sorrow again.

4. The Fusion of Emotions (Sanyoga)

The perfect blend of Vibhava, Anubhava, and Vyabhichari Bhava results in the complete realization of rasa. When these elements harmonize seamlessly, they create an indivisible aesthetic experience, leaving a profound impact on the audience. This fusion allows the viewer or reader to feel the depth of the emotion, transcending mere intellectual understanding.

18 January 2025 

Rati - Shringar (Erotic Emotion)

Rati is the primary emotion or bhava in Shringar rasa (erotic sentiment), and when it reaches its peak and combines with determinants (Vibhava) and consequences (Anubhava), it gives rise to Shringar rasa.

श्रृंगार करुण वीर रौद्र हास्य भयानका।

(Shringar Karuna Veer Raudra Hasya Bhayanaka)

"Shringar, Karuna, Veer, Raudra, Hasya, Bhayanaka..."

In the context of dramatic expressions, the different emotional flavors or rasas (such as erotic, pathos, heroism, etc.) manifest in different kinds of performances.

According to Shree Shankuk 

• Rasa-anumana (The inference of rasa) can only be perceived by someone who has the ability to understand or infer it.

• Anumana (inference) is the process through which a person perceives something indirectly.

• Only when an inference reaches the level of Pratiti (conviction) can it fully be realized.

Types of Pratiti (Conviction or Realization)

1. Samyak Pratiti (Correct Realization) – This is when a realization is accurate or truthful.

Example: "This is Dushyant" – It is correctly understood.

2. Mithya Pratiti (False Realization) – This is when a realization is false.

Example: "This is not Dushyant" – It is wrongly concluded.

3. Sanshay Pratiti (Doubtful Realization) – This is when there is doubt about the accuracy of the realization.

Example: "This might be Dushyant" – The identification is uncertain.

4. Sadrishya Pratiti (Similar Realization) – This is when the realization is made by comparing something to a similar object or person.

Example: "This seems like Dushyant" – It resembles Dushyant but is not confirmed.

When Samyak Pratiti (correct realization) occurs, the rasa is fully manifested in the audience’s perception.

This process of inferring and realizing emotional responses through Rasa and its different levels of Pratiti (conviction) is known as Anumati Vada. This philosophy discusses how the audience arrives at emotional understanding based on different types of perceptions.

On 19 January 2025 was Sunday.

20 January 2025 

Bhattanaayak's Perspective:

Rasa is not something merely inferred; it is something experienced.

He argues that it is an internal experience, not something external or imagined.

"પરપોટો ઊંચકીને કેડ વળી ગઈ હવે દરિયો લાવું તો કેમ લાવું"

(Parpoto unchaki ne ked vali gayi, have dariyo laavun to kem laavun)

Translation: "The kite has flown high; now how can I bring the ocean?"

This phrase captures a feeling of helplessness or futility, akin to trying to bring something impossible into one's grasp. It metaphorically expresses the idea that some things, like rasa, are not easy to manifest.

His theory is known as the Bhakti Vada (the philosophy of devotion). Bhakti here refers to a deep, spiritual connection where one can experience the same emotions as others whether it’s a poet, actor, or audience based on mutual emotional understanding.

The Process of Experiencing Rasa:

The writer, while writing, experiences certain emotions that are then conveyed through the actors' expressions and performances. When these emotions are shared and experienced by the audience, it is said to be Bhogvay (to experience).

Sadharanikaran refers to the process by which the individual emotional experiences of the performer are generalized to the audience. In this sense, both the performer and audience share the emotional experience and thus "enjoy" or manav the rasa.

Tadatmya (Identification with the Emotion)

Tadatmya means the merging of the individual’s emotional experience with the object of emotion, resulting in a shared emotional state.

Sadharanikaran is the process through which this shared emotion is felt and enjoyed by everyone involved, including the audience.

Literature is meant for Aswad (aesthetic pleasure), and true Aswad occurs when Sadharanikaran happens when the emotional experience of the characters merges with the audience’s feelings.

Abhinavagupta's Philosophy:

Abhinavagupta, a renowned philosopher, articulated that the process of rasa expression is Abhivyajana Vada (the theory of manifestation). He emphasized that rasa is often experienced as a mental state or bhruiti (a state of mind) that emerges during the aesthetic experience.

The Importance of Udipana (Stimuli):

Udipana plays a key role in the manifestation of rasa. If the stimuli (external elements like environment, setting, etc.) are not appropriate or aligned with the emotions, the rasa is hindered (Vighna).

In other words, when the right stimuli are present and the emotions align properly, the rasa flows naturally, and the experience becomes fulfilling. However, if the stimuli are inappropriate, the emotional experience gets disturbed, and rasa cannot be fully experienced.

21 January 2025 : ધ્વનિ (Beyond Sound)

In the context of Indian aesthetics, "ધ્વનિ" refers to a deeper, more transcendent meaning that goes beyond mere sound. It represents the essence of something that cannot be captured solely by words, but is felt through subtle, emotional resonance. This concept, often associated with rasa (aesthetic experience), reveals how art, emotions, and perception work together to create profound effects.

The concept of Bhraanti (illusion) plays a crucial role in understanding ધ્વનિ. The idea that "everything is an illusion but beautiful" suggests that what we perceive as real may be a distorted reflection of truth, yet it holds beauty and meaning. As the saying goes, "Roj fute ne fari thaye ek par photo ant, har ek and mahaan tathyo bhram che" (Every day something new blooms, yet every image we capture is an illusion). This illustrates how even in illusion, there is beauty.

Kalabhriti (artistic creativity) is what makes illusions enchanting. It is shaped by three aspects:

1. Svapna (Dreams)

2. Smriti (Memory)

3. Kalpana (Imagination)

The phrase, "Be mat pravrute ene vishe hu to chhu j chhu" (Two interpretations exist, but I exist beyond them), captures the essence of ધ્વનિ it is beyond what is directly perceivable, and in its highest form, leads to Anand Vardhan (enhancement of bliss). Dhvani transforms into a special, resonant sound that elevates perception.

22 January 2025 : Dhvani in Aesthetic Theory

According to Anandavardhana, Dhvani (suggestion or resonance) is the soul of poetry. He compares Dhvani to the lowness of a woman’s charm, emphasizing its role in creating beauty and emotional depth within a poem.

"विभाती लावण्यमिवांगानासू"

(Vibhati lavanyamivanganasu)

Translation: Dhvani is like the charm of the body; it beautifies emotions and evokes rasa (aesthetic essence).

Dhvani emerges from the relationship between language and emotion. In Anandavardhana’s theory, it suggests that the meaning is not always explicit but can be derived from the implied or suggested meanings within language. This is what makes literature so powerful, as it transcends literal meaning and touches deeper emotional states.

Language is a complex phenomenon. It is an expression of thought, but it can never fully convey a complete idea. Language works through suggestions, and its meaning is often inferred. Anandavardhana describes this as a sport (an activity or play) of meaning where words evoke something beyond their literal sense.

In his view, the powers of word meaning (Shabdashakti) are of four types:

1. Abhidha (Literal meaning): The direct, explicit meaning of a word.

2. Lakshana (Indicative meaning): When a word does not have a direct meaning, but suggests another meaning.

3. Vyanjana (Suggestive meaning): The deeper, indirect meaning beyond the literal sense.

4. Tatparyashakti (Intentional meaning): The overarching meaning that emerges from the context, irrespective of the individual word's meaning.

The real beauty of language lies in Vyanjana (suggestiveness), which adds an emotional layer to communication. Anandavardhana asserts that the power of Dhvani is so profound that it can communicate emotions and meaning without the direct use of words. This indirect expression brings the Ananda (joy) of literature to the reader, where even in the absence of explicit language, the experience resonates deeply.

Types of Dhvani:

1. Vastu Dhvani: Suggestion of an object or thing.

2. Alankara Dhvani: Suggestion of ornamentation or stylistic embellishment.

3. Rasa Dhvani: Suggestion of emotions or aesthetic experience.

Dhvani plays a central role in transforming ordinary language into a rich, immersive experience that goes beyond the literal to touch the emotional and philosophical realms of the reader or listener.

On 23 January, We had not lecture on Indian poetics and Asthetics 

24 January 2025 : Kavya Saundarya and the Role of Dhvani

In the realm of poetry, the aesthetic beauty (Kavya Saundarya) manifests through Dhvani (suggestion), which is both local and transcendental. Anandavardhana asserts that Dhvani is not merely a physical, material expression of language but also carries a deeper, supernatural quality. The essence of Dhvani is twofold—Laukika (worldly) and Alaukika (transcendental). In the transcendental realm, we find two primary types of Dhvani:

1. Vastu Dhvani: Suggestion of objects or things.

2. Alankara Dhvani: Suggestion of embellishment or style.

The transcendental aspect of Dhvani is supreme, as it surpasses ordinary material language and touches the essence of deeper meanings, evoking emotions that are beyond the immediate perception of reality. Anandavardhana emphasizes that the Rasa Dhvani, which is the suggestion of emotions or aesthetic experience, plays a vital role in this transcendent experience, bringing a profound connection with the deeper truth.

Vakrokti (Witty Expression)

Vakrokti refers to a twisted or indirect expression that reveals beauty through complexity and depth. It is the art of presenting a thought in a non-literal, creative way. Vakrokti is where beauty resides, as it challenges the ordinary structure and engages the mind in a deeper reflection.

An example can be seen in the line:

"Roj roj pankhi jhulata daalkhi, ek din ghat thi jaay, lekhannma udav karte patangiyu ek din lekhit thi jaay."

(Translation: The bird swings on the branch every day, one day it will fall. The kite flying in the sky one day will be written down.)

The poet uses Vakrokti to evoke an image of transience, making the ordinary world appear extraordinary through indirect, metaphorical language.

The Kuntaka (another scholar) also wrote a text titled Vakrokti-Jivita, in which he utilized Vaidagdhy (refinement) to convey the deeper meaning through Vakrokti. This type of expression engages the mind more deeply, offering a more enriched experience.

In the poetic tradition, as expressed by Kavya Shastra, the path to wisdom is shaped by the study of poetry, where the intellect of the reader or listener traverses through layers of meaning, ultimately leading to a deeperVakrokti: The Essence of Poetic Beautyunderstanding of life's beauty. "Kavyashastra vinodan galo gachchhati dhimatan" (Translation: For those with intellect, their time is spent in the study of poetry.)

Thus, the essence of poetry lies in its Dhvani a medium that transcends ordinary language, inviting readers to experience the subtle and profound beauty that resides within it.

25 january 

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, and poetry, too, is an art where interpretation varies. What appears unattractive to one might be beautiful to another. In literature, Vakrokti (indirect or artistic expression) enhances poetic charm, making words more profound and engaging. As the Sanskrit verse states:

"शब्दार्थों सहितो वक्र कवि व्यापार शालिनी ।

बंदे व्यवस्थितौ काव्यम तद्विदाहलादकारिणी।।"

(Translation: A poem, enriched with words and meanings, crafted with poetic wit, gives delight to the learned.)

Thus, literature is the harmonious blend of words and meaning, and its artistic quality is heightened by Vakrokti.

Types of Vakrokti

Kuntaka, in his Vakrokti-Jivita, categorizes Vakrokti into six types, each contributing uniquely to poetic excellence:

1) Varna-Vinyasa Vakrokti (Phonetic Beauty)

When the arrangement of letters creates a melodious or rhythmic effect, it is called Varna-Vinyasa Vakrokti. The selection and combination of phonemes enhance the beauty of poetry.

For instance:

"Ashaadha uchchaaran megh malharam..."

The repetition of ‘sh’ and ‘r’ sounds produces a musical effect, making the words aesthetically pleasing.

2) Pada-Purvārddha Vakrokti (Pre-Word Artistry)

Here, the word preceding another adds depth to the meaning, subtly modifying or intensifying its interpretation.

Example:

"Joonu to thayu re deval, joonu to thayu..."

The repetition of "Joonu" (old) before "Deval" (temple) enriches the meaning, emphasizing the passage of time and nostalgia.

3) Pada-Parogh Vakrokti (Post-Word Artistry)

In this type, the word following another word deepens its significance and enhances the poetic effect.

Example:

"Gadh ne hokaro to kaangaraai deshe, pan gadh ne hokaro kaun deshe?"

Here, “kaun” (who), placed after "hokaro" (call), increases the dramatic impact, highlighting the dilemma of leadership and responsibility.

4) Vaakya Vakrokti (Sentence-Level Indirection)

In Vaakya Vakrokti, a sentence is structured in such a way that the meaning is not straightforward but rather presented indirectly.

Example:

"Nadi na patthar gani shako, pan tarang nahi."

(You can count the stones in a river, but not the waves.)

This metaphor suggests that some things are quantifiable, while others—like emotions or movements—remain intangible.

5) Prakarana Vakrokti (Situational Artistry)

In this form, an additional sub-event is introduced in a scene, altering its interpretation. It may reinterpret the original event or lead to a new meaning altogether.

For instance, if a narrative about a heroic battle is suddenly disrupted by a minor character's emotional turmoil, it can shift the reader’s perception, making them focus on human emotions instead of the grandeur of war.

6) Prabandha Vakrokti (Structural Indirection)

This is the broadest form of Vakrokti, where an entire literary composition can symbolize something beyond its literal meaning.

For example, a fable about animals might actually be a critique of human society, conveying deeper wisdom. A story originally meant to highlight one theme may be reinterpreted to reflect another.

The Significance of Vakrokti in Literature

Vakrokti is not just ornamental rhetoric; it elevates the poetic experience by adding layers of meaning. It enables poets and writers to indirectly express profound ideas, making their work more engaging, thought-provoking, and aesthetically enriched.

In essence, literature flourishes through Vakrokti, transforming ordinary words into extraordinary expressions that linger in the mind long after they are read or heard.

On 26 January We had no classes 

 

27th January 2025 : Alaṅkāra: The Ornamentation of Poetry

Alaṅkāra (અલંકાર) is considered the soul of poetry. It enhances the aesthetic appeal of a literary work, making it more expressive and impactful. Instead of conveying the meaning directly, alaṅkāra employs artistic embellishments, making poetry more layered and evocative. Ancient literary theorists revered alaṅkāra as an essential component of poetic excellence.

As per Paṇini and Bhāmaha, poetry without alaṅkāra is incomplete. Bhāmaha, a key proponent of the Alaṅkāra school, asserts that poetry should not be plain or too obvious—true poetry should be recognized by its artistic beauty and figurative depth.

Bāṇabhaṭṭa’s Kādambarī is a classic example of alaṅkāra-rich poetry, where each phrase is adorned with artistic expressions, making the prose more captivating.

Types of Alaṅkāra

Alaṅkāras are broadly classified into two main categories:

1) Shabda Alaṅkāra (Phonetic Figures of Speech)

These focus on the musical or rhythmic beauty of words. The arrangement of sounds, rhymes, and alliterations creates an auditory appeal.

Example:

"Chanda chhaye chandrama, chamke cham cham cham..."

(The poetic repetition of 'ch' and 'm' sounds produces a musical effect.)

2) Artha Alaṅkāra (Semantic Figures of Speech)

These enhance meaning rather than sound, adding depth, emotion, and artistic expression to poetry. Some important artha alaṅkāras include:

(a) Upmā (Simile)

One thing is compared to another using words like "જેમ" (like), "વગેરે" (similar to), or "યથા" (as in Sanskrit).

Example:

"ચંદ્ર જેવા મુખ વાળા..."

(Your face is like the moon.)

There are 92 types of Upmā in classical Sanskrit poetics.

(b) Rūpaka (Metaphor)

Unlike Upmā, a metaphor directly equates one thing to another.

Example:

"તારું મુખ ચંદ્ર છે."

(Your face is the moon.)

(c) Anuprāsa (Alliteration)

The repetition of similar sounds to create rhythm and musical beauty.

Example:

"પવનપંખી પલમાં પલટી ખાય."

(The repeated 'p' sound enhances the poetic flow.)

(d) Yathāsankhya (Sequential Order)

When the order of words follows a logical sequence, enhancing clarity and meaning.

Example:

"સૂરજ ઉગે, આકાશ લાલ થાય, અને દિવસ શરુ થાય."

(The natural sequence of sunrise → red sky → morning.)

(e) Vakrokti (Indirect Expression)

Vakrokti is also considered a form of alaṅkāra because it presents ideas in a clever, indirect manner, making poetry more thought-provoking.

Example:

"જળમાં ચંદ્ર હોય, પણ તે પકડાય નહીં."

(The moon is visible in water, but it cannot be caught—symbolizing illusion.)

The Significance of Alaṅkāra in Poetry

Poetry adorned with alaṅkāra is more aesthetic, engaging, and impactful. It allows poets to:

• Create beauty through words.

• Enhance meaning with artistic expressions.

• Evoke emotions more effectively.

• Make their poetry memorable and melodious.

As Bhāmaha suggested, poetry without alaṅkāra is like a body without ornaments—it may still exist, but it lacks its fullest charm. Thus, alaṅkāra remains an integral part of literary expression.

28 january 2025

Rīti, Auchitya, and Ramanīyatā: The Aesthetics of Poetry

Poetry is not merely about words and meaning; it is also about style, propriety, and beauty. These three elements—Rīti (રીતી), Auchitya (ઔચિત્ય), and Ramanīyatā (રમણીયતા)—play a crucial role in shaping poetic expression.

1) Rīti: The Soul of Poetry

Rīti (રીતી) refers to the stylistic essence of poetry. It is often translated as poetic style or diction, but it is much more than that. The way words are arranged, the flow of expressions, and the rhythmic charm together define Rīti. Just as individuals have a unique way of speaking, poetry has its own distinctive style, which gives it its identity.

As Kālidāsa suggests:

"પાંચાળમાં રહેનારી પંચાળી, ગોડમાં રહેનારી ઘોડી."

(One’s identity is shaped by one's environment, just as Draupadī belongs to the Pāñchāla kingdom and a horse to its stable.)

This implies that the poetic style is influenced by cultural and geographical factors. Different poetic traditions across regions have their own Rīti, which makes their literature unique.

Types of Rīti

Dandin, Vāmana, and other classical scholars classified Rīti into different categories. Some notable ones include:

Vaidarbhi Rīti – Smooth, elegant, and rich in alaṅkāra.

Gaudiya Rīti – Powerful and grand, full of strong expressions.

Pañcāli Rīti – Balanced, artistic, and emotionally expressive.

Among these, the style that is most impactful is considered the best.

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2) Auchitya: The Principle of Propriety

Auchitya (ઔચિત્ય) refers to appropriateness in poetry. A poem should maintain a balance where everything fits harmoniously—themes, emotions, and language should be in proportion. Where there is no propriety, there is no completeness.

The Role of Auchitya in Literature

The tone of the poem should match the subject. A poem about war should not use soft, romantic expressions, and a love poem should not sound like a political speech.

Characters must behave in ways appropriate to their nature. A brave warrior should not be portrayed as cowardly, and a wise sage should not act foolishly.

Auchitya and Modernism

Modernism challenges the idea of fixed propriety because it believes literature should evolve rather than remain bound by traditional structures. However, even modern literature maintains some degree of propriety—it may break old rules, but it establishes new ones in their place.

If something lacks balance entirely, it is not modernity, but disorder.

Modern literature may appear unconventional, but it still follows an inner logic that makes it meaningful.

Thus, Auchitya does not impose rigidity but ensures coherence.

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3) Ramanīyatā: The Beauty of Poetry

Ramanīyatā (રમણીયતા) refers to the aesthetic charm of poetry. A poem should not only be meaningful but also pleasing to read or hear. Beauty in poetry comes from language, imagery, rhythm, and emotions.

Ramanīyatā in Poetic Theory

The Rasagaṅgādhara, an important Sanskrit text, defines Ramanīyatā as:

"रमणीय अर्थ प्रतिपादक शब्द काव्यम।"

(That which expresses a beautiful meaning through beautiful words is poetry.)

Thus, Ramanīyatā is the combination of meaning and melody—where words not only convey thought but also delight the mind.

Elements of Ramanīyatā

1. Sound and Rhythm – A poem must flow smoothly, like music.

2. Imagery and Expression – It should create vivid mental pictures.

3. Emotional Appeal – A poem should touch the heart and evoke emotions.

4. Harmony of Words and Meaning – Words should match the depth of thought they express.

Example:

"નદીના પથ્થર ગણી શકો, પણ તરંગ નહીં."

(You can count the stones in a river, but not its waves—suggesting that some things are immeasurable, like emotions.)

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Conclusion: The Interplay of Rīti, Auchitya, and Ramanīyatā

Rīti gives poetry its distinctive style and identity.

Auchitya ensures balance and propriety, making poetry coherent and impactful.

Ramanīyatā brings aesthetic beauty, making poetry pleasurable to experience.

Together, these three define the essence of great poetry—one that is stylish, appropriate, and beautiful.