Theory of Dhvani or Suggestion | Anandavardhana | Indian Aesthetics | IRENE FRANCIS

Summary

This video explores the basics of the Dhvani theory in Indian aesthetics. Introduced by the 9th-century scholar Anandavardhana, Dhvani focuses on the 'suggested meaning' of words in poetry, which goes beyond literal interpretation. Dhvani is considered the soul of poetry, as it emphasizes the importance of implied meaning in creating depth and emotion. The theory contrasts with others, like Bharata's rasa theory, by focusing on the method rather than effect. The video also discusses the types of poetry based on Dhvani and critiques against the theory.

Takeaways

• 📜 Dhwani theory is a key aspect of Indian aesthetics, primarily focusing on suggested meanings in poetry, and contrasts with literal interpretations.
• 📚 Ananda Vardhana, a 9th-century scholar, introduced the term Dhwani, emphasizing the significance of suggested meaning (Vyangartha) over literal meaning (Vachyartha).
• 📖 Dhwani theory highlights that true poetic beauty lies in the hidden or implied meaning, which often surpasses the literal meaning of words.
• 🔍 Ananda Vardhana's major work 'Dhvanyaloka' explores the concept of Dhwani in depth, stating that Dhwani is the soul of poetry.
• 📖 To fully understand Dhwani in a poem, one must read the entire work, as it depends on the context of the whole poem, not just individual lines.
• 🎨 Dhwani can only be comprehended by individuals with refined literary taste, and it is considered an advanced poetic technique.
• 💡 Ananda Vardhana categorized poetry into three types: Dhwani Kavya (superior poetry), Gunibhuta Vyangya Kavya (suggestion is secondary), and Chitrakavya (lacks suggestion entirely).
• 🎭 Dhwani differs from the Rasa theory, as Dhwani focuses on the method (suggested meaning), while Rasa focuses on the effect (emotional response in the audience).
• 🤔 Various criticisms have been raised against Dhwani, likening it to inference (Anumana), implication (Arthapatti), and secondary meaning (Lakshana), but Ananda Vardhana argues it is distinct.
• 🌟 Despite criticisms, Dhwani theory became a major part of Indian aesthetics, supported by figures like Ananda Vardhana and Abhinava Gupta, highlighting the creativity and depth of poetry.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the Dwani theory in Indian aesthetics?

The Dwani theory primarily focuses on the suggested or implied meaning (Vyangyartha) in a poem, rather than the literal meaning (Vachyartha). It emphasizes the deeper, hidden meanings conveyed through poetic expression.

Who is the key figure associated with the Dwani theory, and what was his contribution?

Ananda Vardhana, a 9th-century scholar, is the key figure associated with the Dwani theory. He introduced the concept of 'Dhwani' and discussed it extensively in his work 'Dhwanyaloka,' where he argued that the suggested meaning (Vyangyartha) is the soul of poetry.

What are the two types of meanings in a work according to Ananda Vardhana?

According to Ananda Vardhana, there are two types of meanings: Vachyartha (the literal meaning) and Vyangyartha (the suggested or implied meaning). He emphasized that the implied meaning is more important in poetry.

Can the suggested meaning (Dhwani) of a poem be understood by reading a few lines?

No, the suggested meaning (Dhwani) of a poem cannot be understood by reading just a few lines. It requires understanding the entire poem to grasp the deeper, implied meaning.

What distinguishes men of literary taste from others when interpreting Dhwani in poetry?

Men of literary taste are able to understand the implied meanings and appreciate the creativity and subtlety of poetic suggestions, while others may only grasp the literal meanings of the words.

How did the perception of poetry change with the advent of the Dwani theory?

Before the Dwani theory, older schools of thought primarily focused on the direct meanings of poems. With the rise of the Dwani theory, scholars understood that poetry cannot be fully expressed through words alone and that indirect meanings and suggestions are vital for poetic beauty.

What are the three types of poetry discussed in relation to the Dwani theory?

The three types of poetry are: Dhwani Kavya (where the implied meaning is dominant), Gunibhuta Vyangya Kavya (where the implied meaning is subordinate), and Chitra Kavya (where there is no implied meaning).

What is the main difference between Bharata's Rasa theory and the Dwani theory?

The Rasa theory focuses on the emotional effect created in the audience (happiness, sadness, etc.), whereas the Dwani theory focuses on the method of conveying implied meanings in poetry. Dwani is concerned with how the suggested meaning in the text creates an effect in the reader.

How does Ananda Vardhana defend the Dwani theory against the criticism that it is similar to Anumana (inference)?

Ananda Vardhana argues that while Anumana (inference) requires immediacy and a middle term, Dwani does not. Dwani involves a subtle, creative suggestion that goes beyond inference and requires an aesthetic sensitivity to be understood.

Why do some critics argue that Dwani is not necessary in poetry?

Some critics argue that the literal meaning (Abhidha) and the relationship of words in a sentence are sufficient to convey the full meaning. They believe that the primary meaning of a word, along with its relation to other words, is enough without relying on implied meanings.