Question

Who is the primary proponent of Dhwani Theory?

• A. Bharata
• B. Ānandavardhana
• C. Abhinavagupta
• D. Kuntaka

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Ānandavardhana

• Ānandavardhana (9th century CE) is one of the most significant figures in the field of Sanskrit poetics (Alankara Shastra).

• He is best known for formulating the Dhwani theory (the theory of suggestion) in his celebrated work Dhvanyāloka ("The Light of Suggestion").

• This work established him as a pioneer in Indian aesthetics and literary criticism, revolutionizing the understanding of poetry by emphasizing the power of implied meaning.

• Ānandavardhana belonged to the region of Kashmir, a hub of intellectual and cultural activity during his time.

• He lived during a period when literary theory was undergoing significant developments, with various schools focusing on different aspects of poetry, such as rasa (emotional essence), alamkara (ornaments), and riti (style).

• Ānandavardhana synthesized these earlier theories while introducing the idea that Dhwani (suggestion) is the soul (atma) of poetry.