Abstract
This research proposes how Virtual Reality can serve as a multisensory medium to enhance the understanding of the ancient Indian Navarasa theory. It focuses on Ehsaas, an immersive VR game that turns the nine core emotional states into interactive spatial environments. Today's youth often navigate through complex digital environments which contributes to cognitive overload. There is also very limited awareness of the Navarasa theory as a model for understanding human emotions. The existing emotional learning methods rely on passive consumption in a generation that is habitual to interactive media. In an attempt to fix this, Ehsaas combines the cultural knowledge from Bharatamuni's Natyashastra with modern game design frameworks and Western psychological ideas to create an engaging and immersive experience. It follows an approach without the traditional win/loss conditions or timers, which encourages the player to prioritize psychological safety and self -determination. The players journey through diverse emotional realms ranging from serene environments of Shringar and Adbhuta to heavy spaces of Raudra and Bhayanaka, which transform abstract theatrical concepts into tangible psychomotor interactions. Through physical VR gestures the users can channel raw emotional energy into purposeful actions, which aid cognitive reappraisal. This research demonstrates how immersive technology can build empathy, emotional resilience, self- awareness and mindfulness to guide the users to a deeper experiential understanding of the Navarasa theory. It highlights the potential of VR as an innovative, interactive, therapeutic medium for sharing India’s cultural and theatrical psychology through interactive learning. By connecting ancient traditional knowledge with modern digital experiences, Ehsaas creates a new approach demonstrating that immersive media alongside the Navarasa framework can serve as a way for self-discovery.