Soumya Nair takes a long look at the bustling realm of Indian theatre and points out how from the golden period of the Sanskrit era to the present theatrical excellence, Indian drama has retained its flavour and finesse through generations. She explains that through the changes that obtained, the literary traditions in theatre remain guarded, and points out, many contemporary plays are adaptations or interpretations of ancient texts.
Dating back to the ancient times, Indian drama and theatre have evolved through centuries, inspiring art forms and literature around the world and leaving a lasting impact on the world of performing arts. The dawn of Indian drama heralds a golden age of theatrical excellence, with the Sanskrit plays of Kalidas, Bhasa, and Shudraka serving as the timeless pillars of artistic brilliance.
It was in the classical period between the fifth century BC and the fourth century AD, these works were created and even today continue to captivate audiences with their intricate narratives, lyrical beauty, and profound insights into the human condition.
One of the defining features of these Sanskrit dramas is their incorporation of mythology and religious themes. As a result, they not only entertained the audience but also served as a medium for conveying moral and spiritual lessons.
The characters in these plays were often larger than life, with their actions and dialogues reflecting the ideals of Hindu Puranas and philosophy. This tradition of using drama as a means to educate and enlighten the masses has continued till date in Indian theatre.
Masters of storytelling
Kalidas, one of the greatest playwright and poet of ancient India, stands as a towering figure in the annals of world literature. His magnum opus Abhijnanasakuntalam, a Sanskrit play of seven acts based on Mahabharat’s legend Shakuntala, remains a masterpiece of poetic storytelling, weaving together themes of love, destiny, and redemption against the backdrop of ancient India.
Similarly, Malavikagnimitram enchants readers with its tale of star-crossed lovers and courtly intrigue, showcasing Kalidas’ unparalleled skill in crafting evocative imagery and memorable characters. It is the story of King Agnimitra and Malavika, and how the king falls in love with a picture of this girl. Another play, Vikramorvasiya, is the love story of King Pururavas and Urvasi, a celestial nymph.
Bhasa, the pioneering playwright or dramatist of ancient India, even before Kalidas, contributed a wealth of theatrical gems. His plays, also in Sanskrit, including Uru Bhangam – a tragic play – and Swapnavasavadatta are distinguished by their bold themes, dynamic characterisation, and rich dramatic tension. Through his exploration of mythological and historical themes, Bhasa breathed new life into the theatrical landscape of ancient India, leaving an indelible mark on subsequent generations of playwrights.
Shudraka, renowned for delightful comedies, brought a touch of levity and charm to the world of Sanskrit drama. In Mrichchhakatika, Shudraka spins a tale of romance and intrigue, peppered with humour and social commentary. His nuanced portrayal of everyday life in ancient India offers a window into the joys and sorrows of ordinary people, adding depth and richness to the classical repertoire. Other works include Vinavasavadatta and Padmaprabhritaka, the latter being a bhana meaning a short monologue.
The enduring legacy of these playwrights extends far beyond the boundaries of time and space, their works transcending linguistic and cultural barriers to resonate with audiences around the world. Through the artistry of translation, Kalidas’ plays have found new life in countless languages, enchanting readers and theatre-goers with their timeless themes and universal appeal.
Folk traditions
Apart from Sanskrit dramas, Indian theatre also draws inspiration from folk and oral traditions. These forms have been an integral part of Indian culture since ancient times. In fact, many folklores have been adapted into plays, keeping them alive in the hearts of the people.
In the bustling realm of Indian theatre, few productions shine as brightly as ‘Charandas Chor,’ a play by Urdu and Hindi theatre pioneer Habib Tanvir, based on a Rajasthani folktale by Vijaydan Detha, with universal themes of humanity and redemption. The play was also adapted into a film with the same name by noted filmmaker Shyam Benegal.
At its heart lies the enigmatic figure of Charandas, a thief whose exploits are as legendary as they are infamous. Yet, beneath his rough exterior beats a heart of gold, driven by a sense of justice and compassion that sets him apart from his peers. As the story unfolds, Charandas travels on a quest for redemption, navigating a world fraught with peril, deception, and unexpected twists of fate.
What sets ‘Charandas Chor’ apart is its ability to seamlessly blend the whimsical charm of folk storytelling with profound insights into the human condition. Through its colourful cast of characters and spirited dialogue, the play transports audiences to a bygone era, where honour, duty, and morality collide in a dazzling display of theatrical magic.
A collusion of artforms
Indian drama and theatre stand out for their profound integration of music and dance. This symbiotic relationship between theatre, music, and dance has deep roots in the country’s rich cultural heritage.
At the heart of this artistic fusion are classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Odissi, Kuchipudi, and Manipuri, each with its own distinct style, repertoire, and aesthetic sensibility.
These ancient dance traditions, honed over centuries, serve as pillars of Indian classical arts, embodying grace, precision, and storytelling prowess. Most of these enact stories and episodes from ancient Indian literature and scriptures.
Indian theatre also draws inspiration from folk dances that reflect the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the subcontinent. From the exuberant leaps of Bhangra in Punjab to the graceful twirls of Garba in Gujarat, folk dances infuse performances with a sense of local flavour and authenticity, transporting audiences to the heart of rural India.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian theatre, the influence of Western theatrical techniques has become increasingly pronounced in recent times, leading to a fascinating fusion of traditional and modern elements.
This convergence has spurred the emergence of experimental forms of theatre that challenge conventions, blur boundaries, and push the limits of artistic expression. At the forefront of this movement stands the acclaimed playwright Girish Karnad, whose 13-scene Kannada play Tughlaq (1964) epitomises the synthesis of Indian classical theatre with contemporary sensibilities. It is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous reign of the 14th-century Delhi Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
What sets it apart is its innovative blend of theatrical techniques drawn from both Eastern and Western traditions. Karnad deftly incorporates elements of Indian classical theatre, such as stylised dialogue and rhythmic recitation, like ancient Sanskrit dramas.
At the same time, he incorporates modernist sensibilities such as non-linear storytelling. The result is a multi-layered and intellectually stimulating work that challenges audiences to question conventional notions of history, truth and identity.
Beyond art
Indian theatre has also witnessed a rise in political and social commentary in recent years. Plays have increasingly addressed issues such as gender inequality, corruption, and social injustices, making a powerful statement through the medium of drama. It is not just in terms of themes and techniques that Indian drama and theatre have evolved; it has also seen a shift in its approach to storytelling. Traditional linear narratives have given way to non-linear forms, using flashbacks, multiple perspectives, and other techniques to create a more engaging experience for the audience.
Despite these changes, one thing that remains constant is the importance given to preserving and promoting Indian literary traditions in theatre. Many contemporary plays are adaptations or interpretations of ancient texts, keeping them relevant and alive for generations to come.