Navarasa

Navarasa is Netflix’s 2021 anthology series that sets an interpretive stage for classical Indian philosophy, dealing with the nine human emotions. As a one-of-a-kind treat for a global audience, this venture is essentially a confluence of renowned Indian film stalwarts, gifted dancers, powerful musicians, and performing artists. In its core, Navarasa seeks to connect art, aesthetics and human emotions in an enthralling manner.

The word 'Navarasa' signifies 'Nine Emotions' in Sanskrit. It refers to the nine aesthetic classifications in Indian aesthetics, namely Love (Shringara), Laughter or Joy (Hasya), Compassion or Kindness (Karuna), Anger (Raudra), Courage (Veera), Fear (Bhayanaka), Disgust (Bibhatsa), Wonder or Surprise (Adbhuta), and Peace or Tranquility (Shanta). Each episode of the series explores one of these emotions, intersecting brilliant storylines into various cultural, social, and emotional contexts. The series attempts to encapsulate the gambit of human emotions and the Indian philosophy surrounding it, unifying them with compelling narratives and strong characters.

Navarasa is not just any other web series but a determined effort to bring to light and celebrate South Indian cinema. This Tamil-language anthology is produced by the eminent director Mani Ratnam and accomplished filmmaker Jayendra Panchapakesan. The series regales the interest of viewers as nine different, skilled directors helm the episodes. Each story weaves a distinct narrative, yet they all lie within the realm of human feelings and reactions. The effective direction is coupled with powerful performances by some of the most acclaimed actors in the Tamil film industry. With stunning cinematography, mood-apt music, and edgy editing, Navarasa unrelentingly brings the viewers on an emotional roller-coaster ride.

Each episode serves as a standalone story, engaging the audience with its unique plot and a wide array of characters. The characters are crafted meticulously and portray various shades of the nine emotions. The series oscillates between various genres. It tells tales written with elements of mystery, romance, thrill, intrigue, and even the supernatural. Consequently, it provokes the audience into understanding and feeling the emotions in the purest sense.

Navarasa also distinguishes itself socially and economically. Profits from the series are designated to help film workers who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on the cinema industry. This humanitarian angle gives the series a commendable facet amidst the chaos in the film and entertainment industry.

The series has received mixed reviews. Some critics praise the anthology for its splendid acting, sharp screenplay, remarkable soundtracks, and the way it has been shot. Critics appreciate its novel approach to blending Indian classical philosophy with the contemporary storytelling form of the web series, bringing the traditional perspectives on human emotions closer to the global audiences. A few critics, however, point at weak scripts and inconsistent execution in some episodes. While a few critics feel that focusing more on the narrative and spending less time on defining the rasas might have improved the pacing of certain episodes.

Navarasa is indeed a jewel in the Indian cinematic universe that speaks volumes about the prowess of storytelling and human emotions. Viewer discretion is advised due to some adult content. Hence, Navarasa is a series suitable for mature audiences appreciative of deeply reflective and philosophical narratives.

To conclude, Navarasa stands as a groundbreaking attempt in reinterpreting and presenting the very soul of Indian philosophy. This show will not only please the regular audience looking for captivating storytelling but also will gratify the aesthete in quest for understanding the intricacies of human emotions through the lens of art. Navarasa, with its delightful blend of entertainment, aesthetics, and poignant narratives, proffers an unprecedented cinematic experience pulsating with a diverse emotional spectrum. It enriches Netflix’s global offerings by adding a dash of Indian ethos, art, and aesthetics. Consequently, it lights up an exploratory path in the world of web series, opening a multitude of opportunities for the world to appreciate and understand traditional Indian perspectives on human emotions.