Dharmi Sadanga: The Six Limbs of Art

Dharmi Sadanga is one of the six limbs of Indian Art, as outlined in the Natyashastra, a treatise on the performing arts. Dharmi refers to the manner in which the actor or performer presents themselves on stage. This includes their posture, gestures, facial expressions, and movements. The Dharmi Sadanga is concerned with the creation of character and the portrayal of emotion through physical expression.

The Dharmi Sadanga consists of two components: Angika and Vachika. Angika refers to the physical aspects of performance, such as the use of the body, including facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements. Vachika refers to the vocal aspects of performance, such as speech and song.

Angika is further divided into four parts: Anga, Pratyanga, Upanga, and Sattvika. Anga refers to the main body parts, such as the head, arms, and legs. Pratyanga refers to the smaller body parts, such as fingers and toes. Upanga refers to the accessory body parts, such as the eyes and eyebrows. Sattvika refers to the involuntary reactions of the body, such as the trembling of the hands or the sweating of the palms.

Vachika, on the other hand, is divided into three parts: Vachya, Geet, and Abhinaya. Vachya refers to the spoken word, while Geet refers to the sung word. Abhinaya refers to the physical expression of the emotion or sentiment being conveyed through the words. This includes facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements.

In the performance of Dharmi Sadanga, the performer must pay close attention to their posture and movements, as well as their vocal delivery. The performer must be able to convey the character’s emotions and sentiments convincingly, using a range of physical and vocal techniques. For example, a performer may use a specific hand gesture or facial expression to convey a particular emotion or feeling, such as anger or joy.

Key Learnings

• Dharmi Sadanga is an essential component of Indian performing arts, particularly in the portrayal of character and emotion.
• The use of physical and vocal techniques is key to creating a convincing and powerful performance, and the performer must be skilled in both areas to be effective.
• The study and mastery of Dharmi Sadanga is crucial for any aspiring performer, as it provides a foundation for creating a memorable and impactful performance.