Traditional Ritual Theatres of India

Context

4 Ritual theatre in India (Kutiyattam, Mudiyettu, Ramman, and Ramlila) was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH).

What is a Ritual theatre?

• A performance form combining sacred rituals with dramatic expression.
• Typically staged in temples, courtyards, and festival grounds.
• Involves acting, singing, dance, music, narration, puppetry, and ritual symbolism.
• Functions as:
  • Devotion (invoking gods & myths),
  • Social identity (community participation),
  • Cultural transmission (values & traditions across generations).

UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

• The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List is a global recognition given to living traditions and practices that communities pass down through generations.
• These are not physical monuments or sites (like the World Heritage List), but intangible practices such as festivals, rituals, dances, songs, craftsmanship, oral traditions, and theatre forms.
• According to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, ICH includes:
  • Oral traditions and expressions (including language).
  • Performing arts (dance, music, theatre).
  • Social practices, rituals, festive events.
  • Knowledge & practices about nature and the universe.
  • Traditional craftsmanship.

Key Characteristics of Ritual Theatres

1. Religious or Mythological Themes – Most performances are tied to deities or epics.

2. Community Participation – Villagers or temple devotees often actively participate.

3. Integration of Dance, Music, and Drama – Multi-sensory experience.

4. Ritualistic Significance – Performance itself is considered an offering.

5. Elaborate Costumes and Masks – Enhances visual and spiritual impact.

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