Bhavabhuti: Makers of Indian Literature (1998 Edition)

Bhavabhuti (c. 7th–8th century CE) was one of the most renowned Sanskrit playwrights and poets in Indian literature. He is often considered one of the greatest dramatists after Kalidasa. His works are marked by their depth of emotion, philosophical insight, and dramatic intensity, and he is especially known for his contributions to classical Sanskrit drama. Bhavabhuti's works reflect the sophisticated art of drama during the time of the Gupta period and later.

Key Aspects of Bhavabhuti's Contributions:

1. Tragic Drama:

   • Bhavabhuti is known for writing plays that explore deep emotions, often centering around themes of love, duty, sacrifice, and philosophy. His work contrasts with other dramatists like Kalidasa, who is primarily known for his lighter, romantic comedies. Bhavabhuti's plays are more intense and dramatic, focusing on moral dilemmas and complex human emotions.

2. Famous Works:

   • "Malati-Madhava": This is Bhavabhuti's best-known work, a romantic tragedy. The play tells the story of the love between Malati, a beautiful woman, and Madhava, a young man, who are separated by fate and their duties, but eventually reunited. The drama deals with themes of love, devotion, and the power of destiny.

   • "Uttara-Rama-Charita": Another famous play by Bhavabhuti, Uttara-Rama-Charita (The Later Acts of Rama), is based on the last part of the Ramayana. This play delves into the complexities of Rama's life after his return to Ayodhya, particularly the banishment of his wife, Sita, and his moral dilemmas regarding his duties as a king. The play is often seen as a tragic exploration of the conflict between duty (dharma) and personal emotions.

   • "Mahaviracharita": This is a play that explores the life of Lord Rama in the context of his duties as a king and warrior. It offers a philosophical and spiritual perspective on the challenges of leading a righteous life while fulfilling one's responsibilities.

3. Influence and Style:

   • Bhavabhuti’s works exhibit a unique blend of pathos and heroism, with an emphasis on the emotional struggles of characters in extreme situations. His understanding of the human psyche and emotional conflicts allowed him to create deeply empathetic characters.

   • He was also an innovator in Sanskrit dramaturgy, particularly in his use of mood and character development. His plays are considered more philosophical and reflective than many of his contemporaries, and he focused heavily on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by his characters.

   • His characters are often faced with conflicts of duty (dharma), love (prema), and sacrifice (tyag), which were central themes in Indian philosophy and ethics.

4. Philosophical Themes:

   • Bhavabhuti’s works reflect his deep understanding of the concept of dharma—the moral code that governs human behavior. His plays often show how the pursuit of righteousness can lead to difficult personal choices and tragic consequences, with an emphasis on the nobility of sacrifice and the challenges of upholding virtue.

   • The theme of suffering and its philosophical implications is explored in depth, particularly in Uttara-Rama-Charita, where Rama’s internal struggle between his love for his wife and his duty as a king is presented with profound empathy.

5. Cultural and Historical Context:

   • Bhavabhuti was likely influenced by the Gupta period, which is considered the "Golden Age" of Sanskrit literature and arts. This was a time of great cultural and intellectual flourishing in India. His works also reflect the rich epic tradition of India, especially drawing from texts like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

   • His plays were composed in the classical Sanskrit style, but Bhavabhuti brought to his work a heightened emotional depth and philosophical complexity that set him apart from other dramatists.