LOK NATYAS OF RAJASTHAN: NARRATING FOLKWAYS

This research looks at Rajasthani lok natyas through the lens of their narrative content. The two major natya forms- Khyals and Rammats are explicitly taken into consideration in this study. The research draws from live lok natya performances at local lok natya festivals, recordings of Khyal and Rammat performances available with private collectors or on the internet, and Rajasthani literature on this genre available in the local dialect and in Hindi. The lok natyas provide a genuine and an all-encompassing picture of folkways, aiding in the comprehension of the intricacies and wisdom of indigenous people. Reflecting the socio-cultural, political, ideological, psychological, and religious attitude of the folk, the lok natyas delve deeply into the fabric of folk life. They exhibit the folk culture, customs, dharma (the right action, a way of life), rituals and ceremonies, and folk perspective on life. Drawing inspiration from mythology and history these natyas cover a broad range of themes, including gender study, multiple truths, green ideals, communal social obligations, and dichotomies in life. There is much to learn, examine, and unpack about the lok natyas as a cultural achievement. It is important to acknowledge the universality ingrained in this cultural manifestation as well as its distinctiveness, specificity, and otherness.