Sringara Rasa is one of the nine rasas described in the texts of Hindu poetics. This sentiment arises from sthayi bhava called rati. It has two substrata –
- Sambhoga (love in union)
- Vipralambha (love in separation)
Love in union arises from vibhavas (causes) such as seasons, garlands, ointments, ornaments, beloved people, sense objects, superb mansions, garden visit, looking at one’s beloved accompanied by sports, dallying, etc. It should be represented on the stage through anubhavas such as clever movement of the eyes, eyebrows, glances, graceful and gentle body movements and soft words. Vyabhicaribhavas of this sentiment do not include alasya (laziness), krodha (anger) and jugupsa (disgust).
Love in separation should be represented on the stage through vyabhicaribhavas, nirveda (discouragement), glani (weakness), etc.
The distinction between vipralambha sringara and karuna (pathos) is as follows – karuna rasa relates to nirapkeshabhava (loss of hope) and arises from sadness due to a curse, loss of the beloved, wealth and imprisonment of someone dear. But vipralambha sringara relates to sapkeshabhava (hopes kept alive) and arises from yearning and anxiety. Thus Karuna rasa is different from vipralambha sringara.