Mudras as symbols of the universe —The spiritual import of Hindu dance
Form and Essence in Frithjof Schuon’s writings, and its direct analogy and application to the sacred gestures of Hindu dance and dramatic art.
Outline of Presentation:
- Read selected passages from: Chapter 4: Concerning Forms in Art, The Transcendent Unity of Religion, 61 Edition Quest Books, Chennai, India 2005
- I propose to illustrate the main ideas of the text with the help of the dramatic art of ancient India, bringing into evidence the relationship between form and intellection in the sacred gestures of Hindu dance.
- Present a brief introduction of some concepts of Traditional Hindu dance and retrace the origin of these gestures coming from the ancient Vedic rituals. Elucidate the distinction between Mudras in Yoga Tradition and Hasta in dance tradition.
- Comment and illustrate the text with the Viniyogas which are the meanings given to the various symbolic gestures, the-Hastas- I have chosen significant Viniyogas which elaborate metaphysical principles and religious offerings. I will perform them along with the recitation of the shloka, explaining its meaning.
