Natyashastra, the earliest treatise on performing arts in Sanskrit, was written by who among the following?

Bharata Muni

The correct answer is Option (2) → Bharata Muni

The Natyashastra, which is considered the foundational text of Indian classical music, dance, and drama, was written by Bharata Muni.

About the Natyashastra

• The "Fifth Veda": It is often referred to as the Pancha Veda (the Fifth Veda) because it distills the essence of the four Vedas into a form accessible to all.
• Content: The treatise consists of 36 chapters and approximately 6,000 poetic verses. It covers everything from stage design and makeup to the theory of Rasa (emotions) and Bhava (expressions).
• Rasa Theory: Bharata Muni famously outlined the eight original Rasas (Shringara, Hasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayanaka, Bibhatsa, and Adbhuta) that form the emotional core of Indian performing arts.