abhinaya
n. C2 Proficiency ab·hi·naya
n. the art of acting or expressing emotions in Indian classical dance. It involves using facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements to tell a story.
n. the performance or expression of a dramatic role, particularly in Indian classical dance. Refers to the systematic use of facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements to convey narrative and emotion.
The dancer mastered abhinaya to tell the story without words.
In traditional Bharatanatyam, abhinaya is considered the most important aspect of the performance, requiring years of practice to perfect.
The performer's abhinaya was so nuanced that the audience could feel the protagonist's internal conflict through subtle shifts in eye contact and hand positioning alone.