Author: Dhirendra Nath Ghosh
DOI Link :: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/04.2024-96352824/BIJMRD/Vol -2 / 2 (1)/2024/A4/Dhirendra Nath Ghosh
Abstract: Theatre has constituted an important part of the cultural life and public entertainment in India with its varied manifestations. The material state of literacy during the colonial era makes the study of theatrical activities very important. Being an oral cultural form, it provides platforms for political awareness as well as a means of representing the views of the general public. The study emphasizes how, throughout the colonial era, theatre underwent a transformation that made it a crucial arena for social and political activities. Through artistic forms, it questioned and resisted the authoritarian framework, eliciting a range of reactions. This essay illustrates how Indian theatre evolved during the colonial era. Since the late 19th century, theatre has played a significant role in social and political movements. Through the employment of artistic forms, it challenged and questioned authoritarian structures. However, while being a crucial platform for progressive authors and political activists, theatre’s position in Colonial studies is characterized by ambiguity and marginality.
Keywords: Entertainment, Awareness, Cultural Life, Literacy.