Abhinaya-darpan' text was written by:

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:

Nandikeshwar is unequivocally credited as the author of the classical Sanskrit treatise *Abhinaya Darpana*, which translates to 'The Mirror of Gesture'. This text is a fundamental manual for Indian classical dance, especially Bharatanatyam, and provides a systematic exposition of *Angika Abhinaya* (expression through body movements). It meticulously details hand gestures (*hastas* or *mudras*), as well as head, neck, and eye movements, and is considered an essential source text after the monumental *Natyashastra* of Bharata Muni. The work is crucial for dancers and scholars for understanding the technical vocabulary and theoretical framework of classical Indian dance.

The incorrect option is 1:
Abhinavgupt was a profoundly influential Kashmiri Shaivite philosopher and aesthetician, best known for his comprehensive commentary on the *Natyashastra*, which is titled *Abhinavabharati*. While he is a towering figure in the theory of *Rasa* (aesthetic flavour) and *Dhvani* (suggested meaning), his primary contribution was an interpretive analysis and philosophical deepening of Bharata Muni's text. He did not compose a separate foundational dance manual like the *Abhinaya Darpana*. Therefore, attributing the *Abhinaya Darpana* to him is incorrect.

The incorrect option is 2:
Shubhankar is another scholar in the tradition of *Sangeet Shastra* (musicology) and dramatic arts, who is often mentioned in relation to music and dance texts of the medieval period. His notable work is *Sangeeta Damodara*, which discusses musical and dramatic concepts. Although his work contributes to the same field, the available historical and textual evidence consistently and definitively attributes the *Abhinaya Darpana* to Nandikeshwar, not Shubhankar.

The incorrect option is 4:
Parshwadev is counted among the later musicologists who made significant contributions to the theoretical framework of Indian music and dance. He is principally known for his treatise *Sangeeta Samayasara*, a significant work that deals with *Raga* and *Tala*. While his period and subject matter align with the cultural and artistic tradition discussed in the *Abhinaya Darpana*, his literary work is distinct and does not include the text in question. The authoritative authorship rests solely with Nandikeshwar.