In general, street theatre in India, is commonly called as Nukkad. But, all sorts of street theatre are not Nukkad.
India's history in theatre is illustrious. Classical drama on the one hand, and folk drama on the other, have enriched the history of Indian theatre. The composition of Natyashastra began around 500 BC, while the history of Shruti, Yatra, Palagan, Nautanki can be seen from around 700 BC.
Historically, there have been many evolutions in these two genres of drama. Not only in dramaturgy and formal stage performances, folk drama has gained widespread popularity and different genres of folk drama have developed in different parts of India. These folk plays were performed in the open, in the audience. The history of Dravidian civilization is not particularly studied in this country, as a result the history of folk art of that time is not particularly known. The first folk drama that is widely known is 'Kushilab' drama based on the story of Ramachandra's two sons Lab and Kush.
Almost no-cost facility
Highly interacting format
Attractive dressing
Usability on various purposes
So many theatre groups, political and non-political organisations, NGOs perform Nukkad throughout the country. They try to convey some message to the audience.
Both of them have inspired so many youth towards street theatre and that brought a chunk of new Nukkad groups. And especially, during the periods of crisis, Nukkad becomes a weapon to speak out, to connect with the audience, with a very nominal, almost zero expenditure.