Prayagraj: With the aim of taking the rich tradition of Indian culture and theatre to the new generation, a meaningful discussion was held on the tradition, structure and modern possibilities of Sanskrit theatre on Saturday in the “Vimarsh” series organized by the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), Ministry of Culture, Government of India. As the keynote speaker, Professor Janardan Prasad Pandey ‘Mani’, Head of the Department of Literature, Central Sanskrit University, Prayagraj, said that Sanskrit theatre is not only a medium of entertainment, but has been a powerful medium to convey Indian traditions, culture and life values to the society.
The programme was inaugurated by lighting the lamp by the chief speaker along with Prof. Hari Dutt Sharma, Centre Director Sudesh Sharma and Deputy Director Dr. Mukesh Upadhyay. Professor Pandey discussed in detail the historical tradition, structure, and cultural significance of Sanskrit theatre. He explained that Sanskrit theatre was not merely a medium of entertainment in Indian society, but also an effective means of educating society, instilling moral values, and awakening cultural consciousness. Responding to the question posed by host Akash Agarwal, “Tell us about Sanskrit theatre?”, Professor Pandey said that the structure of ancient Sanskrit theatre was highly organized and scientific. The stage, backstage, audience gallery, and performance space held special importance. A balanced coordination of music, dance, acting, and dialogue was evident in theatrical performances.
In response to the question, “What were the basic elements and key characteristics of Sanskrit drama?” he explained that the primary elements of Sanskrit drama were rasa, bhava, abhinaya, dialogue, music, and poeticism. The purpose of these plays was not merely entertainment, but also to awaken the audience to life values, morality, and social values. Professor Janardan Prasad Pandey ‘Mani’ earned a Doctor of Philosophy (D.Phil.) degree on “A Critical Study of the Poetic Elements of Dramaturgy.” He has published eleven books and received 28 awards and honors. He has acted in more than ten plays and directed more than fifteen. Professor Pandey has received the Maharishi Badrayan Vyas Samman (Presidential Award, Government of India, New Delhi, 2002) and the Sahitya Akademi Award (Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, 2022).
Responding to a question regarding Bharatmuni’s Natyashastra, Professor Pandey said that Sanskrit plays describe various characters, including kings, heroes, heroines, jesters, sages, heroes, and commoners. Each character had its own specific role and personality traits. The jester, in particular, was considered a medium of humor and social messages.
Discussing the major authors of Sanskrit plays, he mentioned great playwrights like Kalidasa, Bhasa, Bhavabhuti, and Shudraka. He explained that works like Kalidasa’s “Abhijnana Shakuntalam,” Bhavabhuti’s “Uttar Ramacharitam,” and Shudraka’s “Mrichchakatikam” are invaluable treasures of Indian theatre, offering a wonderful portrayal of Indian culture, sensibility, and human values.
Professor Pandey said that Indian culture is based on values such as love, compassion, coexistence, and humanity. Connecting today’s generation to their cultural roots and traditions is the need of the hour. Dr. Krishnanand Pandey, Krishnamohan Dwivedi, Manoj Kumar, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
