Pratima Natakam
Date
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
National School of Drama, New Delhi
Abstract
Pratima Natakam (प्रतिमा नाटकम्) is a classical Sanskrit play traditionally attributed to Bhāsa, one of the earliest and most influential playwrights in Indian literature. Based on episodes from the Ramayana, the play primarily depicts the events following the exile of Rama, emphasizing the grief of King Dasharatha's family, Bharata's devotion, and the symbolic significance of Rama's image (pratima). The drama explores themes of dharma (duty), sacrifice, kingship, loyalty, devotion, and moral responsibility.
Description
Ramji Bali is an Indian theatre practitioner, actor, director, and theatre educator associated with the National School of Drama. He has extensive experience in Indian classical theatre traditions, actor training, and performance pedagogy. As the guide for this Indian Classical Scenework, he supervised students in interpreting classical Sanskrit drama through voice, movement, gesture, characterization, and traditional performance conventions. His teaching emphasizes rigorous textual understanding alongside practical performance rooted in India's classical theatrical heritage.
Citation
National School of Drama. (2024, February 12). Indian Classical Scenework (Pratima Natakam) [Theatre performance]. Guided by Ramji Bali. National School of Drama, New Delhi.
