Indian Theatre: Sanskrit Theatre

Theatre in India began as a narrative art form.
The Sanskrit word ‘nataka’ was derived from the root word ‘nata’ which actually meant a dancer.
In ancient India, plays were generally of two types
- Lokadharmi: These were realistic depictions of daily life.
- Natyadharmi: These were conventional plays with a more stylised narration and overt symbolism.

Sariputraprakarana
- By Ashvaghosha
- It was a nine-act play.
Mricchakatika
- By Sudraka
- Introduces the essence of conflict.
- Apart from a hero and a heroine, this play featured an antagonist for the first time.
Malavikagnimitram, Vikramorvashi and Shakuntalam
- By Kalidasa
Uttaramacharita and Mahaviracharita
- By Bhavabhuti
Mudrarakshasa
- By Visakhadatta
Ratnavali
- By Harshavardhana

Sanskrit plays followed an almost ritualistic progression.
Characters in Sanskrit plays were classified into three kinds which are Nayaka (Hero or the Protagonist), Nayika (Heroine) and the Vidusaka (Clown).

As Sanskrit dramatists began to diverge towards poetry, the lyrical writings started gaining popularity over the dramatic works.
The rigid orthodoxy of the Sanskrit theatre restricted the creative space of new playwrights who turned to other forms.
It was increasingly confined to the religious sphere and among the Brahmins, while other languages such as Pali and Prakrit took its place.
With the advent of Muslim rulers, Sanskrit theatre took a definite backseat, as dance and music gained patronage.

Example: Koodiyattam

Kutiyattam is one of the oldest traditional theatre forms of Kerala.
It is based on Sanskrit theatre traditions.
In its stylized and codified theatrical language, netra abhinaya (eye expression) and hasta abhinaya (the language of gestures) are prominent.
They focus on the thoughts and feelings of the main character.
It is traditionally performed in theatres called Kuttampalams, which are located in the Hindu temples.
Kutiyattam is performed by a community of male actors called Chakyars and female performers called Nangiars, assisted by drummers called Nambiars.
Kutiyattam has been declared as among the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.