Which 'Rasa's Sthai-Bhaav is "Jugupsa"?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:
The theory of Rasa (Aesthetic Emotion) in Indian performing arts, as codified in Bharata Muni's *Natyashastra*, pairs specific aesthetic flavors (Rasa) with corresponding permanent psychological states (Sthai-Bhaav). The Sthai-Bhaav that is fundamentally associated with the feeling of 'disgust,' 'revulsion,' or 'aversion' is *Jugupsa*. This permanent emotional state transforms into the aesthetic experience known as *Vibhatsa* Rasa (the Odious or Disgustful). *Vibhatsa* is evoked by scenes or descriptions of the gruesome, repulsive, or unclean, such as blood, decay, offensive smells, or mutilated bodies, making the correct pairing *Vibhatsa* and *Jugupsa*.

The incorrect option is 2: Bhayanak.
*Bhayanak* is the Rasa of the Terrible or Fearful. The Sthai-Bhaav that transforms into *Bhayanak* Rasa is *Bhaya*, which literally means fear or dread. Therefore, the pairing of *Bhayanak* with *Jugupsa* is incorrect, as the latter exclusively relates to feelings of revulsion, not terror.

The incorrect option is 3: Raudra.
*Raudra* Rasa embodies fury and wrath. Its correct permanent emotion, or Sthai-Bhaav, is *Krodha*, meaning intense anger. This emotion is typically evoked by acts of insult, cruelty, or violation, which are expressions of rage and are distinct from the disgust or aversion implied by *Jugupsa*.

The incorrect option is 4: Shringar.
*Shringar* Rasa is the aesthetic of Love or the Erotic, and it is considered the most important of all the Rasas. The Sthai-Bhaav that gives rise to *Shringar* Rasa is *Rati*, which signifies love, attachment, or pleasure. Since *Shringar* focuses on the beautiful and delightful, its core emotion, *Rati*, is the complete opposite of the aversion signified by *Jugupsa*.