Paper 105 : From stage to screen : Indian Drama

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 105 - History of English Literature - from 1350-1900,Sem - 1, 2024.

Table of contents:-

Introduction

1.Classical Drama

• Kalidasa
• Bhasa
• List of Sanskrit plays in English translation

2.Folk and Regional Theatre

3.Modern Indian Literature

4.Contemporary Drama : 

• Girish Karnad
• Vijay Tendulkar
• Mahesh Dattani
• Film adaptation of Shakespearean Drama
• Impact of Television, OTT platform, Cinema hall etc on Drama

Personal Information:-

Name:- Krishna Vala

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2024-2026)

Enrollment Number:- 5108240037

E-mail Address:-krishnavala2005@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 13

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- Indian Drama

Paper & subject code:- 105 - History of English Literature - From 1350 to 1900.

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar. 

Date of Submission:- 20 November,2023

Words : 2,067

From stage to screen : Indian Drama

Abstract

Indian drama, a vibrant amalgamation of literary, cultural, and social narratives, has experienced a profound transformation from its traditional stage roots to its cinematic adaptations. This evolution encapsulates the rich tapestry of India’s dramatic heritage, ranging from the classical Sanskrit plays of Kalidasa to the progressive works of modern Indian playwrights. With the advent of cinema, Indian drama found a new medium of expression, blending theatrical traditions with visual storytelling. This transition not only redefined the essence of Indian drama but also expanded its audience, enabling the exploration of complex themes through innovative cinematic techniques. This study delves into the journey of Indian drama from stage to screen, analyzing key adaptations, thematic shifts, and the cultural significance of this evolution.

Introduction

Drama in India has long been a medium for storytelling, social critique, and cultural expression. The tradition began with classical Sanskrit plays, such as Kalidasa's Shakuntala, and evolved through various regional theatrical forms. Indian cinema, often referred to as Bollywood and regional counterparts like Tollywood and Kollywood, embraced the dramatic structure of plays, adapting them for a wider audience. From Vishal Bhardwaj’s Shakespearean adaptations like Maqbool and Haider to the social critiques in films such as Peepli (Live), the transition from stage to screen has been marked by experimentation and innovation. This paper examines the interplay between Indian drama and cinema, focusing on how traditional narratives are reshaped in the cinematic form while retaining their cultural essence.

Classical Drama

The term Indian classical drama refers to the tradition of dramatic literature and performance in ancient India. The roots of drama in the Indian subcontinent can be traced back to the Rigveda (1200-1500 BCE), which contains a number of hymns in the form of dialogues, or even scenes, as well as hymns that make use of other literary forms such as animal fables[1] However, Indian drama begins its classical stage in the classical period with the composition of the Nātyaśāstra (lit. The Science of Drama).[2] Indian classical drama is regarded as the highest achievement of Sanskrit literature.

The Buddhist playwright, poet and philosopher Asvaghosa, who composed the Buddhacarita, is considered to have been one of the first Sanskrit dramatists along with Bhāsa, who likely lived in the 2nd century BCE, and is famous for writing two of the only surviving tragedies in Sanskrit drama.

Despite its name, a classical Sanskrit drama uses both Sanskrit and Prakrit languages giving it a bilingual nature.Sanskrit drama utilised stock characters, such as the hero (nayaka), heroine (nayika), or clown (vidusaka). Actors may have specialised in a particular type. Mahābhāṣya by Patañjali contains the earliest reference to what may have been the seeds of Sanskrit drama. This treatise on grammar provides a feasible date for the beginnings of theatre in India.

Kālidāsa in the 4th-5th century CE, was arguably one of ancient India's greatest Sanskrit dramatists. Three famous romantic plays written by Kālidāsa are the Mālavikāgnimitram (Mālavikā and Agnimitra), Vikramōrvaśīyam (Pertaining to Vikrama and Urvashi), and Abhijñānaśākuntalam (The Recognition of Shakuntala). The last was inspired by a story in the Mahabharata and is the most famous. It was the first to be translated into English and German. Śakuntalā (in English translation) influenced Goethe's Faust (1808–1832). The next great Indian dramatist was Bhavabhuti (c. 7th century CE). He is said to have written the following three plays: Malati-Madhava, Mahaviracharita and Uttararamacarita. Among these three, the last two cover between them the entire epic of Ramayana. The powerful Indian emperor Harsha (606–648) is credited with having written three plays: the comedy Ratnavali, Priyadarsika, and the Buddhist drama Nagananda. Other famous Sanskrit dramatists include Śhudraka, Bhasa, and Asvaghosa. Though numerous plays written by these playwrights are still available, little is known about the authors themselves.

Classical stage Performance

Theatre design  -  Asian Tradition

Prominent writer of classical Drama

Bhāsa 

one of the earliest Indian playwrights in Sanskrit, predating Kālidasa. Estimates of his floruit range from the 4th century BCE[1] to the 4th century CE; the thirteen plays attributed to him are commonly dated closer to the first or second century CE.

Play based on Mahabharata

1.Panchratram (Five nights) 

2.Madhyama-vyayoga (The Middle One)

3.Urubhanga(The Breaking of the Thighs)

4.Karna-bhara (The Burden of Karna)

5.Duta-Vakya (The Mission of the Messenger)

6.Duta-Ghatotkacha (Ghatotkacha, the Messenger)

Play based on Ramayana

1. Pratima-nataka (The Statue Play)

2.Abhisheka-nataka (The Consecration Play)

Other famous works

1.Svapnavasavadattam

2.Charudatt

3.Avimaraka

4.Pratijnayaugandharayana

5.Balacharita

Kalidasa

Kālidāsa (Sanskrit: कालिदास, "Servant of Kali"; 4th–5th century CE) was a Classical Sanskrit author who is often considered ancient India's greatest poet and playwright. His plays and poetry are primarily based on Hindu Puranas and philosophy. His surviving works consist of three plays, two epic poems and two shorter poems.

Three play of Kalidasa

1.Abhijnanasakuntalam, 

2.Malavikagnimitram 

3.Vikramorvasiyam

List of Sanskrit plays in English translation

Of around 155 extant Sanskrit plays,[a] at least 46 distinct plays by at least 24 authors have been translated into English. 

William Jones published the first English translation of Sanskrit play (Shakuntala) in 1789.

Sir William Jones

About 3 decades later, Horace Hayman Wilson published the first major English survey of Sanskrit drama, including 6 full translations... 

Mṛcchakatika, 

Vikramōrvaśīyam, 

Uttararamacarita, 

Malatimadhava, 

Mudrarakshasa, 

Ratnavali. 

Horace Hayman Wilson

List of Transportations

Folk and Regional Theatre(10th-18th Century)

The medieval period witnessed the diversification of theatrical traditions across different regions of India. Local forms of drama began to emerge, often influenced by regional folklore, traditions, and cultural practices. These performances were not confined to Sanskrit but were conducted in various regional languages.

In Maharashtra, the Tamasha tradition incorporated elements of dance, music, and humor. Gujarat saw the development of Bhavai, a folk theater form that combined social commentary with entertainment. Bengal witnessed the rise of Jatra, a popular folk theater form that traveled from village to village, narrating stories of mythology and contemporary issues.

Despite the regional variations, these forms of drama often retained a connection to religious themes, folk tales, and societal values. They served as a means of both entertainment and cultural expression for the local communities.

Modern Indian Drama (20th Century-Present)

The 20th century brought about a renaissance in Indian drama with the emergence of influential playwrights. Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate in literature, contributed significantly to the fusion of traditional Indian drama with Western influences. His plays, like “The Post Office” and “Muktadhara,” explored humanism and spirituality.

Girish Karnad, a prominent playwright and filmmaker, delved into historical and mythological themes. Vijay Tendulkar, through works like “Shantata! Court Chalu Aahe” (Silence! The Court is in Session), addressed social and political issues, challenging societal norms and advocating for change.

The Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA), formed in the 1940s, played a pivotal role in using theater as a medium for social and political commentary. Experimental and avant-garde theater gained momentum, with playwrights like Badal Sircar exploring new forms and styles.

Contemporary Drama (21st Century)

Today’s Indian drama is diverse and experimental, blending traditional forms with modern and international influences. Contemporary playwrights, such as Mahesh Dattani and Vijay Tendulkar, address social issues like gender, class, and human rights in urban settings, providing a nuanced view of contemporary Indian life.

India has a rich tradition of playwrights who have contributed to its vibrant theatrical heritage. Here are a few prominent Indian playwrights known for their impact on Indian drama and their exploration of social, political, and cultural themes:

1. Girish Karnad (1938–2019)

Notable Works: 

Tughlaq

Hayavadana 

Nagamandala

2. Vijay Tendulkar (1928–2008)

Notable Works: 

Ghashiram Kotwal

Sakharam Binder 

Silence! The Court is in Session

3. Mahesh Dattani (1958–Present)

Notable Works: 

Final Solutions 

Dance Like a Man

These playwrights have played crucial roles in shaping modern Indian theatre, bringing regional stories, historical insights, and contemporary issues to the stage, and influencing both Indian and global audiences.

Influence of modern platform on tradition of Drama :

In the contemporary world, traditional forms of drama, especially live theatre, have increasingly been replaced or supplemented by film, television, and digital media, such as OTT platforms and social media.

Film, television, OTT platforms, and social media have increasingly taken the place of traditional drama by adapting its core elements—storytelling, character development, and emotional engagement—to suit the preferences and demands of modern audiences.

Great example of new trend is that Shakespearean play had movie adaptation worldwide. Even in India there are many adaptation from Shakespearean drama by Vishal Bharadvaj. 

 

1) Angoor (1982) :

Directed by Gulzar, this film is a comedic adaptation of "The Comedy of Errors." Set in a lively Indian context, it features a complex plot of mistaken identities and comedic situations that align well with Shakespeare's play, bringing out humor through Indian cultural quirks and traditional. 

 2) Maqbool (2003) :

The first in Bhardwaj's Shakespeare trilogy, "Maqbool" is an adaptation of "Macbeth" set in Mumbai’s underworld. Irrfan Khan plays Maqbool, a gangster whose ambition drives him to treachery and murder. The film is noted for its intense performances, particularly by Khan and Tabu, and its dark, atmospheric setting. The screenplay effectively translates the themes of ambition and guilt into the context of organized crime, making it a standout in Indian cinema.            

3)omkara (2006) :   

Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, "Omkara" is a gritty adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello." Set in rural India, it explores themes of jealousy, power, and betrayal. Ajay Devgn plays Omkara, a powerful political enforcer whose insecurities and jealousy lead to a tragic downfall. The film is notable for its raw performances, particularly from Devgn and Saif Ali Khan, and its gripping portrayal of human emotions and flaws. The setting, music by Bhardwaj, and strong script contribute to its critical acclaim.

4) Haider (2016) :

Another Vishal Bhardwaj-Shakespeare adaptation, "Haider" is based on "Hamlet" and set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict. Shahid Kapoor stars as Haider, who returns to Kashmir to find his missing father and becomes entangled in a web of political and personal intrigue. The film is praised for its powerful performances, especially by Kapoor and Tabu, its evocative portrayal of the Kashmir conflict, and its haunting soundtrack. The film effectively combines political drama with the psychological depth of Shakespeare’s tragedy.

Conclusion :

In conclusion, the evolution from classical drama to screen adaptations reflects the changing landscape of storytelling, driven by technological advancements, shifting audience preferences, and cultural reinterpretations. Classical drama, with its focus on live performance and intimate engagement, laid the groundwork for modern narratives, emphasizing timeless themes such as love, ambition, betrayal, and tragedy.

With the rise of film and digital media, these narratives have been reimagined for the screen, reaching broader audiences and allowing for more immersive experiences. Bollywood’s adaptations of Shakespearean plays, for instance, exemplify this transformation, as directors blend Shakespeare's universal themes with India’s vibrant cultural contexts, creating powerful cinematic experiences that resonate globally.

Screen adaptations not only preserve the essence of classical drama but also breathe new life into it, making these stories relevant to contemporary viewers and accessible in diverse formats. This evolution highlights storytelling’s adaptability, ensuring that the insights of classical drama continue to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought across generation. 

References

“Art in Renaissance England.” Oxford Bibliographies, www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/ob-. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

Bhardwaj, Vishal, director. Angoor. A.R. Movie, 1982.

Bhardwaj, Vishal, director. Haider. 2016.

Bhardwaj, Vishal, director. Maqbool. 2003.

“Editors’ Choice: Indian Movies Based on Shakespeare’s Plays.” IMDb, IMDb.com, www.imdb.com/list/ls062907179/. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

“Kalidasa.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/biography/Kalidasa. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

Keith, Arthur Berriedale. The Sanskrit Drama in Its Origin, Development, Theory & Practice. Facsimile Publisher, 2018.