Shringara is not about dressing up — it is the ancient Indian philosophy of falling in love, and Bhakti is what makes it sacred. This scholarly yet intimate talk explores the relationship between aesthetic love (Shringara) and devotional surrender (Bhakti) as foundational to Indian philosophy and the Grihasta Ashrama.

The speaker argues that the nine rasas — anger, compassion, peace, hatred — are only possible in relationship; they cannot exist in isolation. Shringara is the gateway: the act of preparing oneself to be loved, of wanting to be seen by the beloved, is not vanity but the beginning of surrender. The moment that surrender disappears — “the moment you think she didn’t say sorry to me” — the sacred quality is lost.

Bhakti, the speaker insists, is not merely one among the nine rasas but transcendent to them all. The amalgamation of Shringara and Bhakti produces something beyond transaction — a union of souls rooted in mutual devotion.

About the Speaker:

Dr. Usha Rk is a distinguished dance expert, cultural curator, and arts consultant with over four decades of experience across cultural and corporate sectors. Trained in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, she transitioned from performance to research, writing, and curation. She has served as Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre in Moscow, advancing India’s cultural diplomacy, and has curated numerous festivals showcasing rare traditions and innovative collaborations. As Member Secretary for Intangible Cultural Heritage at India’s Ministry of Culture, she contributed to the UNESCO recognition of Yoga and the Kumbh Mela.