Introduction
This essay explores the rich tapestry of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) through the lens of visual narration and storytelling in ancient Indian traditions, with a focus on their relevance to animation fundamentals. It examines the visual narratives of the Indus Valley and Vedic traditions, the Bhimbetka cave paintings, the Natya Shastra’s concepts of rasa, bhava, and abhinaya, the principles of Chitra Sutra, and the sequential narratives embedded in temple sculptures. These traditions are not merely artistic expressions but sophisticated systems of communication that convey motion, sequence, rhythm, and storytelling—elements that resonate with the core principles of animation. By analysing how these ancient practices encapsulate dynamic visual storytelling, this essay aims to demonstrate their enduring influence on narrative techniques. While the primary focus is descriptive and analytical, the discussion also considers the broader cultural and historical contexts of these traditions. The essay is structured into thematic sections, each addressing a specific aspect of IKS and visual narration, culminating in a reflection on their relevance to modern animation studies.
Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): A Foundation for Visual Narration
Indian Knowledge
