The Covid-19 pandemic has triggered an unexpected upshot, taking a severe toll on various aspects of life in India. The repercussions are acutely discernible in the livelihoods of numerous folk artists, including the ‘Behrupiyas.’ Diving deeper into the matter offers insights into the essence of this traditional art form and its significance. The pandemic is not merely a health crisis; its impact has been far-reaching, touching even the most hidden corners of our society.
Understanding Behrupiyas
The term ‘behrupiya’ originates from the Sanskrit words ‘bahu,’ meaning many, and ‘roop,’ referring to form. Hence, Behrupiyas are nothing but impersonators recognized for their performances, primarily enthralling the audience in villages and markets across India. Their expertise lies in assuming diverse avatars by adorning a variety of costumes that portray figures from mythology, folklore, and traditional stories.
The Behrupiya Festival
The Behrupiya Festival, a quintessential Indian style of street theatre, is held every year at multiple locations, such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jaipur, Kumbh, Muzaffarnagar, among others. The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, organized the National Behrupiya Festival from October 5th to 8th, 2018.
The Role of the Behrupiyas
Historically, Behrupiyas played more than just the role of performers. They significantly contributed to the dissemination, transference, and promotion of diverse knowledge forms within the mainstream arena of Samaj, or the people. The vibrant tradition of Ramlila stands as an epitome of this practice, which persists to this day. The ancient Indian text Arthashastra documents how, during the Mauryan era, artists dressed as deities participated in religious processions. These were carried out in spectacular tableaux throughout the kingdom.
The Behrupiyas from Rajasthan served Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh of the erstwhile Jaipur Kingdom. There are also accounts of their contribution to the fight for India’s independence as they assisted the freedom fighters.
Different Forms of Traditional Theatres
India, with its rich cultural diversity, showcases a wide array of traditional theatres:
1. Bhand Pather: A theatre style rooted in Kashmir.
2. Nautanki: Remarkable theatrical form originating from Uttar Pradesh.
3. Bhavai: A prominent folk theatre of Gujarat.
4. Jatra: A typical theatre format unique to Bengal.
5. Maach: A renowned traditional theatre stemming from Madhya Pradesh.
6. Bhaona: An Assamese theatrical tradition.
7. Dashavatar: Popular in the Konkan and Goa regions.
8. Tamaasha: A theatre form indigenous to Maharashtra.
9. Krishnattam, Koodiyaattam, and Mudiyettu: Kerala’s cherished traditional theatres.
10. Yakshagana: Native theatre style of Karnataka.
11. Therukoothu: A popular form of theatre in Tamil Nadu.
This incredible diversity is what makes India’s cultural fabric so vibrant. However, the ongoing pandemic has posed severe threats to these traditional art forms, necessitating urgent measures to preserve and promote them.
Sources: TH