Discuss M. Hiriyanna’s View on Art Experience
Introduction
M. Hiriyanna, a renowned Indian philosopher and aesthetician, made significant contributions to the understanding of Indian aesthetics. His interpretation of art experience combines the principles of classical Indian thought with modern philosophical clarity. For Hiriyanna, art is not merely entertainment or a craft, but a profound experience that touches the emotional and spiritual core of a human being.
Art as Emotional and Universal Experience
Hiriyanna emphasized that the essence of art lies in the experience it evokes — what he calls the rasa experience. According to him, art allows individuals to transcend personal emotions and enter a shared, universalized state. This universalization is made possible by the process of sadharanikarana, through which the audience no longer relates to the artwork as a personal event but as an impersonal, yet deeply emotional experience.
Detachment and Joy
He pointed out that in genuine art experience, one feels an emotional connection while remaining detached from real-life consequences. This detachment makes the joy of art unique and free from worldly disturbances. It creates a blissful state where emotions are enjoyed for their own sake.
Conclusion
For Hiriyanna, art is a medium that elevates human consciousness by blending emotion with universality and detachment. His view aligns well with classical Indian aesthetics while also speaking to modern sensibilities, making his philosophy of art both accessible and profound.