2

Thus, I presented this Science of Dramaturgy original: "Natyashastra," the foundational Sanskrit treatise on performing arts, complete with its three components, before the committee for publication. The committee joyfully gave its approval. Following their endorsement, and by the grace of the All-Sustainer Vishvambhara, a name for the Divine, I composed two commentaries, an extensive introduction, and included them here. I now place this before the eyes of kind-hearted scholars; let them judge the quality of this effort. As for me, I was motivated simply by the practice of reading and teaching.

The primary inspiration for beginning this writing project was my late first wife, Durga, born into the Surelia family. After a long period of time, this undertaking, begun for her satisfaction, has finally borne fruit. I have composed the "Madhusudani" explanation for the Inquiry into Poetry, the Discernment of the Individual, the River of Aesthetic Emotion, the Science of Dramaturgy, and the Light of Poetry These are major works of Sanskrit poetics: Kavyamimamsa, Vyaktiviveka, Rasagangadhara, Natyashastra, and Kavyaprakasha. I also authored the "Child’s Play" original: "Balakrida," a simplified commentary for students for all these texts, with the exception of the Discernment of the Individual. Through this work, may she be pleased, and may the Lord, the Indweller of all hearts, be gratified.

In preparing the press copy and correcting the proofs for the "Madhusudani" and "Child’s Play" commentaries on the River of Aesthetic Emotion and the Science of Dramaturgy, my sixth and youngest daughter, Miss Rajyalakshmi, B.A., and my sons Arunodaya and Suryodaya, provided great assistance. I offer them many blessings for this. I meditate upon the Lord of Bhavani Shiva, the creator of all beings, and repeatedly petition Him: "O Infinite One! I am Yours, and I offer this, Your own possession, back to You." With a bowed head, I, Your devoted servant, make this one request: that just like the first volume, the second volume of this jewel of a book may reach completion very quickly. It is my firm belief that by Your grace alone, everything will be accomplished.

Full Moon of Shravana A traditional Hindu lunar month, usually falling in August
1971 Vikram Samvat 2028 converts to approximately 1971 CE