Author(s): Prabhakar Karmakar
Abstract:
Premapīyūṣam, written by Ācārya Rādhāvallabh Tripāthī, is a notable work in modern Sanskrit drama. Even though it is a modern play, it clearly reflects the influence of classical Sanskrit dramatic theory. The structure of the play follows important principles mentioned in Bharata Muni’s Nāṭyaśāstra and Dhanañjaya’s Daśarūpaka, especially the ideas of Arthaprakṛti (dramatic elements), the stages of action, and the five dramatic junctures (Sandhis). The plot centers on the love story of Bhavabhūti and Princess Śaśiprabhā. Their relationship develops gradually and reaches fulfillment in a natural and systematic way, beginning from the initial seed of love and ending in its successful completion. The hero is portrayed as a Dhīrodātta type—noble, calm, and dignified—while the heroine represents the ideal Svakīyā nāyikā. Love (Śṛṅgāra Rasa) is the main sentiment of the play, but other emotions such as sorrow, heroism, anger, and peace also appear at different moments. By describing love as ‘Pīyūṣa’ or nectar, the playwright expresses the moral and spiritual importance of pure love in human life. Through the effective use of poetic style and classical dramatic structure, the play shows that traditional Sanskrit aesthetics can still remain meaningful in modern times.
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