Vada in Theory and Practice: Studies in Debates, Dialogues and Discussions in Indian Intellectual Discourses c5.s11.1

c5.s11.1

There can be several types of *kathā*, a generic term for all types of debates, dialogues and discussions in the Sanskrit intellectual discourse. While they have been classified into two types according to their nature — friendly or hostile — there can be other norms for classification. Depending on the subject or theme of discussion, debate or dialogue, *kathā* can be philosophical, legal, social or religious. In respect of the occasion and venue, it can be occasioned, pre-planned or impromptu. It may be held on a public platform, in an institution like royal court, a temple or a monastery. There are occasioned debates — a *kathā* may ensue out of a challenge by a person desirous of entering into a scholastic combat or discussion. It may be arranged in an institutionalized form, held regularly in a selected place, or it can be started by a sudden and unexpected turn of a situation.