The theory of abhivyakti, propounded by the celebrated
Kashmiri writer Abhinavagupta, holds a significant place in the realm of
alankara shastra, particularly through his seminal commentary,
"Abhinavabharati," on the Natyashastra. Abhinavagupta's insightful
analysis in this work is considered a landmark in the field, shedding light on
the intricate dynamics of rasa realization.
In his exploration, Abhinavagupta delves into earlier
theories, offering a comprehensive discussion before asserting the importance
of sadharanikaran, or generalization, in the attainment of rasa realization.
According to him, human emotions lie dormant in the minds of individuals and
persist through successive births as impressions known as vasana. These
impressions, coupled with a universal sympathy, create the foundation for the
audience to "feel" or "experience" the state of relish,
culminating in the aesthetic experience of rasa.
Abhinavagupta emphasizes the role of vibhavas, among other
elements, in facilitating the manifestation of rasa. The contact of the mind
with these vibhavas leads to the expression of the emotional essence, akin to
the way the fragrance emanates from a lump of clay upon contact with water.
This analogy illustrates the transformative power of the mind's interaction
with the elements of a performance or literary work, resulting in the tangible
experience of rasa.
In essence, Abhinavagupta's theory of abhivyakti provides a
profound understanding of the intricate interplay between human emotions,
impressions, and the artistic elements, offering a rich framework for
comprehending the nuanced dynamics of rasa realization in the realms of drama
and poetry.