| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| UNESCO Recognition | Ritual theatres like Kutiyattam, Mudiyettu, Ramman, and Ramlila recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). |
| Kutiyattam | - Oldest surviving classical theatre from Kerala.- Combines Sanskrit drama with Kerala's temple traditions.- Performances last up to 40 days.- Features precise eye and hand expressions. |
| Mudiyettu | - Dance-drama ritual in Kerala depicting Goddess Kali's battle.- Performed post-harvest in Bhagavati Kavus.- Involves mask-making and community participation. |
| Ramman | - Festival theatre in Uttarakhand.- Honours Bhumiyal Devta.- Features masked dances, epics, and songs.- Performed in April. |
| Ramlila | - Dramatic retelling of Ramayana during Dussehra.- Major performances in Ayodhya, Ramnagar, and Varanasi.- Lasts from 10 days to a month. |
| Sangeet Natak Akademi | - Established in 1953 to preserve performing arts.- Supports documentation, training, and recognition of ritual theatres.- Offers grants and organizes festivals. |
| Community Role | - Ritual theatres involve community participation in funding, performing, and preserving traditions.- Transmitted through oral traditions and apprenticeships. |
| Cultural Transmission | - Ritual theatres transmitted through guru-shishya parampara.- Annual performances foster intergenerational learning. |
| Fusion of Forms | - Combines dance, music, storytelling, mask-making, and craft.- Reflects artistic richness and spiritual values. |
| UNESCO ICH List | India has 15 elements on UNESCO's Representative List of ICH, with ritual theatres playing a vital role. |
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