Evoking the Divine: Aesthetic Dimensions of the Vishnu Sahasranama through Rasa, Dhvani, and Symbolism

Author(s)	N R GOPAL
Country	India
Abstract	The Vishnu Sahasranama (The Thousand Names of Vishnu), a renowned hymn from the Mahabharata, lies at an extraordinary confluence of spirituality, philosophy, and poetry. This paper investigates the hymn through the route of Indian aesthetics, with a concentration on the effects of rasa (emotional resonance), dhvani (suggestive meaning), and alankara (poetic embellishments) to unfold its deeply felt aesthetic and spiritual dimensions. By exploring how the text evokes bhakti rasa (devotion), shanta rasa (tranquility), and adhbhuta rasa (wonder), the study reveals the text’s capacity to transcend mere recitation and immerse devotees in an experiential journey of the divine. Further, the symbolism inherent in Vishnu’s thousand names reflects a cosmological and philosophical depth, embodying the unity of the temporal and eternal. This research also parallels other classical Indian texts to position the Vishnu Sahasranama as a vital bridge between spiritual practice and literary tradition. In doing so, it highlights the hymn’s relevance in contemporary discourses on spirituality, literature, and the transformative power of art.
Keywords	Vishnu Sahasranama, Indian Aesthetics, rasa, dhvani, symbolism, alankara, bhakti literature, devotional poetry, spirituality, and art.
Field	Arts
Published In	Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2024
Published On	2024-11-25
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2024.v06i06.31496

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