Folk theatre in India is a diverse art form that blends elements of music, dance, pantomime, poetry, epic and ballad recitation, visual arts, religion, and rural festivals. Deeply rooted in native culture, it reflects local identity and social values.
Beyond serving as a source of mass entertainment, folk theatre has long functioned as a vital means of communication, facilitating interpersonal, inter-group, and inter-village connections within Indian society.
Throughout history, folk theatre has been widely used to address important social, political, and cultural issues, conveying theatrical messages to raise awareness among the public.
As an indigenous form, it transcends formal communication barriers, reaching directly to the people with its powerful, relatable appeal.
Historically, folk theatre began to emerge strongly in various regions during the 15th and 16th centuries.
It utilized the local languages of the regions where it developed.
Initially, the performances were deeply devotional, often centered around religion, local legends, and mythology.
However, over time, as society evolved, the content became more secular, shifting towards folk tales of romance, bravery, and biographical stories of local heroes.
