This volume contains a comprehensive study of the ancient theatre as interpreted in the Natyasastra. According to the author the mythological account of the origin of theatre is the first exposition of the philosophy of theatre. He analyses in detail four most important aspects of this myth. Firstly, the relationship between theatre and Vedic sacrifice, secondly, the relationship of theatre and the Vedas, thirdly the role of gods, sages and men in the creation of theatre and fourthly, the daivasuram motif and theatre. The latter part of the book deals with plot (itivrtta) and sentiment (rasa) interpreted in concert with the conclusion of the former enquiry into the meaning of the myth of Natyotpatti. The last part of the book is concerned with Buddhistic reaction in the form of santa rasa, to the earlier Brahmanical theory of theatre. The learned author has thus succeeded in showing altogether a novel approach to the study of ancient Indian theatre.
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