Published By: Nirtika Pandita

The different kinds of theatre in India

The narrations of mythological tales have now taken a unique turn

From ancient times, the theatre has been an integral part of entertainment. While initially it was utilized to narrate the mythological tales, over the years it has taken the role of highlighting the social issues and unique narrations. Encompassed with music and dance, theatre is not just limited to the stage but is widely loved in remote regions of India, known as folk theatre that is now for all.

Yatra or Jatra A musical drama theatre popular in eastern India - Orissa, and Bihar – it originated during the Bhakti Movement. Initially known as Krishna Jatra due to Chaitanya’s (spiritual founder of Gaudiya Vaishnavism) the portrayal of Rukmini in Rukmini Haran, this folk theatre has grown to depict love stories and socio-political themes. And traditionally a musical, it has upgraded to impactful dialogues and a few songs.

Tamasha An evolved form of Jagran and kirtan, Tamasha is a folk drama theatre that flourished in the courts of Maratha rulers. Original to the state of Maharashtra, the female actor - known as Murki - is the lead and the chief exponent of dance in the play. And making it unique is its mind-boggling fast footwork of the Lavani dance, tremendous gestures and classical music.

Swang Folk dance theatre popular in rural areas of Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Literally meaning initiation, it comprises naqal (mimicry), song, dialogue along with subtle theatrics. However, the highlights are sharp dialogues, emotions, and distinctive costumes. It is usually performed in a group of ten or twelve people surrounded by an audience enacting religious stories and folk tales. The two important styles of Swang are from Rohtak that is performed in the Bangru language and another from Hathras that is performed in the Brajbhasha language.

Karyala Traditionally performed around Dussehra festival, this folk drama theatre is performed in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in Shimla, Solan, and Simour. An open air performance, the theatre derives its themes from the daily life and stories of villagers that usually opens with drums and enacts using minimal props along with dance and comical acts.   

Therukoothu It is the most popular folk dance form of Tamil Nadu, which literally means ‘street-theatre’. It is a unique form of rural theater that is usually performed during the annual temple festivals in villages for Mariamman (Rain Goddess) for a rich harvest. A source of entertainment and a ritual, Therukoothu is performed in the open primarily drawing themes from mythological stories. Here the male plays both the roles, even of the female, and their performance is characterized by energetic dances and songs sung in high pitch.

With a vivid culture and tradition, India possesses a rich and illustrious history of folk theatre.