In which chapter of Natyashastra, 108 'KARAN' are mentioned ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1 (4):
The correct answer is Chapter 4 of Bharata Muni's monumental text, the Natyashastra. This chapter is famously titled 'Tandava Lakshana' and is the definitive section that enumerates and defines the 108 Karanas. A Karana is a foundational and complete unit of dance, specifically defined as the harmonious coordination of three key elements: a Sthanaka (a specific body posture), a Chari (a movement of the legs), and a Nritta Hasta (a hand gesture). These 108 Karanas are critical because they form the very basis of classical Indian dance, representing the movements performed by Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance, the Tandava. This chapter, therefore, is crucial for anyone studying Angika Abhinaya (body expression) and is the primary source for understanding the mechanics of pure dance (Nritta).

The incorrect option is 2 (14):
Chapter 14 is incorrect because, in the organizational structure of the Natyashastra, it belongs to the extensive segment dedicated to Vachika Abhinaya, or expression through speech and language. Specifically, Chapter 14 details the rules and application of poetic language, the use of various metres (chhandas), and the correct articulation and intonation to be used in dramatic performance. This focus is strictly on the textual and verbal aspect of the drama, which constitutes one of the four major divisions of the Abhinaya theory. It is conceptually and geographically in the text entirely separate from the technical physical movements like the Karanas, which fall under Angika Abhinaya.

The incorrect option is 3 (24):
Chapter 24 is incorrect as it is dedicated to exploring the general conventions of acting and the minute psychological portrayal of characters. This chapter is titled Samanya Abhinaya or sometimes Prakriti Vikalpa in different recensions, and it focuses on the portrayal of the subtle, emotional, and psychological states of the heroines and minor characters. The primary theme here is the demonstration of emotions and behavior, which falls under Sattvika Abhinaya and Aharya Abhinaya conventions. It does not contain the detailed physical grammar of the 108 Karanas, which is the subject of the much earlier Chapter 4.

The incorrect option is 4 (34):
The number 34 is incorrect as it falls near the concluding chapters of the Natyashastra, which typically has around 36 or 37 chapters. Chapter 34 discusses the Siddhis (successful outcomes) and Vighnas (obstacles or causes of failure) in performance, or sometimes deals with the distribution of roles and the historical/mythological lineage of the art. The primary content of the text's final chapters serves as a philosophical and historical summary or epilogue, dealing with the ultimate goal and lineage of Natya, rather than the core technical codification of dance steps. Therefore, the core dance technique of the Karanas is not found here.