Padma Shri Shovana Narayan believes that the best part about writing is that you get to revisit your own knowledge. By Rishabh Arora
Many might think of Indian theatre and dance merely as entertainment but the traditional art forms have contributed to the growth and evolution of our civilisation and culture. Speaking at the launch of her new book, Indian Theatre Traditions, Padma Shri Shovana Narayan endorses the same. She says it has been a pleasure to be born an Indian, a country which has a beautiful and expansive culture with so much to learn.
The book explores the multi-dimensional theatrical traditions of India that include drama, dance and music, folk and other classical art forms. It covers areas of puppetry, martial arts and the tradition of masks and delves into the roots of various streams of Indian culture, including a deep reflection on the applicability of the ancient treatise on Dramaturgy, the Natayasastra.
Translating a performing art form into words might appear to be challenging but Shovana feels that her journey as a writer has been amazing. “When one loves what s/he is doing, one wants to share her/his experiences,” she says. Dancing has been her way of expressing herself which made writing about it a wonderful experience. She adds, “The best part about writing is that you get to know yourself and revisit your own knowledge. This has been an enriching experience.”
In India, dance and theatre traditions are linked to spirituality but the younger generation sees it only as a form of entertainment. She explains, “If you see something as entertainment, it is momentary and will not give you lasting peace of mind. But when you look at something in depth and get involved in it, you derive anand (joy) from it. That is the first stage of spirituality and will give you an inner peace and harmony”, she says and adds, “Nowadays, youngsters are running after peace which is elusive and momentary but if you want it to last and also achieve harmony, you have to find something deeper and more stable.”
Sanjay Arya, founder and publisher, Shubhi Publications, says, “It is my sixth book with her and it has been an wonderful journey.” He already has plans for some more. He adds, “These books are worth reading especially by students who are pursuing their post-graduation in dance and theatre. It is a must to read for them and should be included as their syllabus textbook.”