Civil Services Prep

Prelims 2013 · Art and Culture · Question 29

In the context of cultural history of India, a pose in dance and dramatics called 'Tribhanga' has been a favourite of Indian artists from ancient times till today. Which one of the following statements best describes this pose?

  1. One leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved at waist and neck
  2. Facial expressions, hand gestures and make-up are combined to symbolize certain epic or historic characters
  3. Movements of body, face and hands are used to express oneself or to tell a story
  4. A little smile, slightly curved waist and certain hand gestures are emphasized to express the feelings of love or eroticism

Answer

One leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved at waist and neck

  • (a) Tribhanga literally means three bends—typically at neck, waist and knee/leg, creating an S-shaped posture. Correct.
  • (b) This describes abhinaya/character portrayal through expression, gesture and costume, not the specific pose Tribhanga. Incorrect.
  • (c) This is a general description of dance expression/storytelling, not a particular posture. Incorrect.
  • (d) This refers more to shringara expression or stylized emotive depiction, not the technical definition of Tribhanga. Incorrect.
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