This book offers a comprehensive analysis of Indian arts, with the tradition of dance as a central element which links several streams of artistic expressions. However, dance is not the exclusive subject, but rather a critical element within a more extensive investigation of Indian artistic heritage. While the initial chapters focus on the Na?yasastra and dance traditions, the study proceeds to explore the enduring signifi cance of the philosophical aspects of Indian arts in their entirety. The uniqueness of this book is its study of the kara?a-s, the primary dance movements described in the Na?yasastra, extending beyond a purely dance-related interpretation. Rather, the text off ers a philosophical perspective on the kara?a-s as instruments for self-knowledge, emphasizing their spiritual and yogic dimensions. It unveils their role in self-transformation, and their connection to the Agamic tradition and temple worship in South India. Through this vast study, the book reveals the infl uence of dance traditions on Indian sculptural art and its relevance to the gradual development of Hindu iconography.