Sanskrit Drama

Sanskrit Drama: Overview

• The main purpose of Sanskrit drama is to evoke emotions and create a sense of wonder in the audience.

Characteristics of Sanskrit Drama

• Sanskrit drama often has a happy ending, which distinguishes it from some modern plays that may have tragic or open endings.
• Nobles in Sanskrit dramas speak Sanskrit, while characters of lower social status speak Prakrit.
• The financial supporters of Sanskrit dramas were mainly kings and nobles.

Structure and Limitations

• A Sanskrit drama typically consists of 7-10 parts, including the introduction, dialogue, and conclusion.
• A significant limitation of Sanskrit drama is that it is limited to the elite and the aristocracy, as it is written in a language that is not accessible to the common people.

Actors and Performances

• Actors in Sanskrit dramas were trained to be skilled in music, dance, and recitation, which is a distinguishing feature compared to some European plays.

Decline and Impact

• Over time, fewer people were interested in watching Sanskrit dramas, likely due to the decline of the aristocracy and the rise of other forms of entertainment.
• The language spoken by nobles and others in a Sanskrit drama is distinct, with nobles speaking Sanskrit and others speaking Prakrit.
• Sanskrit drama seeks to evoke emotions such as joy, sorrow, and wonder in the audience, creating a sense of catharsis.