Give a description of Indian folk theater. The appeal of traditional folk theater is waning as civilizations become more urbanized and sophisticated. Examine.
Playwrights like Vijay Tendulkar and Girish Karnad used traditional themes in their plays. Their main focus was on the social issues prevailing in Indian society and were simultaneously attacking the patriarchal norms, which tend to make Indian women subordinate to men. Both the dramatists addressRead more
Playwrights like Vijay Tendulkar and Girish Karnad used traditional themes in their plays. Their main focus was on the social issues prevailing in Indian society and were simultaneously attacking the patriarchal norms, which tend to make Indian women subordinate to men.
Both the dramatists addressed social issues of Indian society, rigid caste system, and gender discrimination, mainly concerning the status of women.
The collective theme of Subjugation of Subalterns can be seen in their writings where women were targeted as subaltern objects who were suppressed and demoralised. Tendulakar’s 1972 play, “Ghashiram Kotwal” is a fine example showcasing the condition of women, the protagonist of the play, Ghashiram exploits women and demeans them.
Vijay Tendulkar has also critiqued the flawed Indian court system during his time, through the play “Silence! The Court Is in Session”. He theorises the subdued condition of women and the Indian courts which do not provide fair justice.
On the other hand, Karnad incorporated myth in his work which is a major part of Indian writings and “Hayavadana” is one such mythical play. His inclination towards politics is evident in “Tughlaq”.
Hence, drawing relevance to contemporary issues.
Both the dramatists have shown similar plight of women and have addressed contemporary challenges through their dramas. Their contribution is noteworthy in the Indian theatre.
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Indian folk theatre encompasses a rich tapestry of regional traditions, each with distinctive storytelling methods, music, and performance styles. Forms like Jatra in Bengal, Tamasha in Maharashtra, Yakshagana in Karnataka, and Nautanki in North India blend mythology, folklore, and social commentaryRead more
Indian folk theatre encompasses a rich tapestry of regional traditions, each with distinctive storytelling methods, music, and performance styles. Forms like Jatra in Bengal, Tamasha in Maharashtra, Yakshagana in Karnataka, and Nautanki in North India blend mythology, folklore, and social commentary with vibrant costumes and lively music. These performances often occur outdoors, involving community participation and improvisation, fostering cultural cohesion.
However, as societies urbanize and modernize, traditional folk theatre faces challenges. Urban migration shifts audiences’ interests towards mainstream entertainment like cinema and digital media, impacting the patronage and funding for folk performances. Economic pressures push traditional artists towards more lucrative professions, further diminishing the pool of skilled practitioners.
Additionally, changing social values and global influences alter audience preferences, favoring Westernized forms over indigenous traditions. Government support and cultural policies play a crucial role in preserving folk theatre through funding, education, and promotion. Efforts to adapt traditional themes and techniques to contemporary contexts can also rejuvenate interest among younger audiences, ensuring that these rich cultural legacies endure amidst modernization pressures.
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