Shalini Modi’s new book, Rasas in Divine Relationships, was recently launched in Kolkata at an event hosted by Oxford Bookstore. Notable personalities from the performing arts and cultural sectors, such as danseuse Priti Patel and drama facilitator and author Baisali Chatterjee Dutt, attended alongside the author.
Published by Rupa Publications, the book explores the dynamic between divine relationships and emotions, blending the concept of rasas from the Natya Shastra with Indian scriptures, such as the epics Mahabharata and Ramayana, and texts like the Vedas and Puranas. The divine couples in the book throw light on how emotions guide and shape their lives, resonating deeply with readers through their relatable human qualities.
The book cover of ‘Rasas in Divine Relationships’
Rasa broadly means essence. In Indian arts, rasas add an aesthetic element to a piece of work, whether in visual, auditory, or literary mediums. These rasas evoke emotions in the audience or reader, stemming from one’s bhava, or state of mind. Rasas have been extensively discussed in Natya Shastra — a Sanskrit text on performing arts by Bharata Muni.
The author, Shalini Modi, is also an astrologer who has deep interest in Indian scriptures. She believes that the philosophy in these ancient scriptures offer valuable lessons that can be emulated in our everyday lives. Shalini is also a philanthropist, who ran a NGO called Pragati Kendra during the post Covid era, offering assistance to underprivileged children and women.
The author of ‘Rasas in Divine Relationships’ — Shalini Modi at the book launch in Kolkata at the Oxford Bookstore
The book launch in Kolkata was followed by an enlightening discussion between Shalini Modi and Priti Patel, moderated by Baisali Chatterjee Dutt. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session from an engaged audience — a diverse gathering of personalities from the fields of literature, art and culture.
You can grab a copy of the book here.
