2026

A Comparative Study Of Dramatic Text And Performance Tradition In Special Reference To Kūṭiyāṭṭam And Kālidāsa:

Author(s): Dr. Sangeeta Gundecha

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between the Sanskrit dramatic tradition of Kālidāsa and the classical theatre form of Kūṭiyāṭṭam in Kerala. While Kālidāsa’s literary stature was widely acknowledged in South India and manuscripts of his dramatic works circulated substantially in the region, his plays did not become a part of the Kūṭiyāṭṭam repertoire. The study explores the stylistic and performative distinctions between the dramatic structure of Kālidāsa’s works and the theatrical conventions of Kūṭiyāṭṭam. In contrast, the plays of Bhāsa became central to Kūṭiyāṭṭam performance practice because of their brevity, openness to elaboration, and suitability for interpretive expansion by the Cākyārs.