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? [2013]

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?

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

Explanation

Option (a) is correct

Tribhanga, meaning “three bends” in Sanskrit, is a graceful and iconic pose in Indian dance and sculpture. In this one leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved at waist and neck.

Line drawing diagram illustrating five classical Indian dance poses labeled Abhanga, Samabhanga (shown twice from front and back), Atibhanga, and Tribhanga. Each pose depicts a stylized human figure with distinct body postures and curved lines emphasizing balance and movement.

Image Source: zhurnaly

It is frequently seen in Odissi dance and in depictions of Indian deities like Lord Krishna and female divinities in classical art and sculptures.