Bharata’s Theatre,

For years, the perception of Sanskrit theatre in the British Indic-studies was that it existed primarily as a form of literature to be read and not performed. However, over the past two decades, there has been a paradigm shift in this understanding. In my 23 years of teaching classical plays, I have come to realize that Sanskrit theatre is highly performable and deeply rooted in a framework that combines spirituality, thought, content, and technique. This transformation challenges the conventional notion and underscores the interdependence of various elements within Indian theatre, where Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha converge to create a holistic artistic experience.

Spirituality and Dramaturgy

Indian theatre is a platform that seamlessly intertwines spirituality, thought, content, and technique. The experience and comprehension of the viewer are profoundly influenced by their current state of being. Central to this perspective is the concept of unity between the form and the formless, known as “para-rupa,” a concept that resonates throughout ancient Indian texts, including the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads.

The Roots of Indian Dramaturgy

The roots of Indian dramaturgy can be traced back to the Yamalashtaka of the Yajurveda and find echoes in the Agni Purana. A pivotal text in understanding this dramaturgy is the “Natyashastra,” which is believed to have been created by synthesizing elements from various Vedas:

1. Rigveda contributes the concept of “samvada sutra” or the essence of dialogue.
2. Yajurveda brings the importance of body language into the mix.
3. Samaveda emphasizes the role of sound, with sound being a manifestation of breath.
4. Atharva Veda delves into emotions, known as “Bhava.”

Legend has it that the sages were concerned about the waning spiritual strength of humanity and its inability to study the Vedas and Upanishads. In response, Brahma, with his infinite wisdom, amalgamated the best from each Veda to create the “Panchamaveda” – the Natyashastra. This precious text was then entrusted to Bharata and his 100 children to perpetuate.

The Transformation of Sanskrit Theatre

While Sanskrit theatre was historically considered a form meant solely for reading, it has now been unequivocally demonstrated that it is highly performable. This transformation is rooted in the interconnectedness of various artistic elements within Indian theatre, where spirituality, thought, content, form, and technique converge.

Conclusion

The evolution of Sanskrit theatre from a purely literary form to a highly performable art underscores the deep spiritual and philosophical foundations on which it is built. Its interdependence on various elements within the realm of art and the principle of unity, as represented by the para-rupa, are central to understanding the rich tradition of Indian dramaturgy documented in the Natyashastra. This shift in perspective not only enriches our appreciation of Sanskrit theatre but also highlights the enduring relevance of its principles in contemporary performing arts.

This post was rewritten for the Blogchatter Half Marathon.

A little about me and my journey

references:

Natyashastra, translations published by MLBD

Indian Dramaturgy in Action ,Dr.Kapila Vatysayana.

Sanskrit Theater in Performance Edited and published by MLBD