Policy, Practice and the Performing Arts in India

Policy, Practice and the Performing Arts in India

Art has the potential to create transformative developments. From enabling  reflection on history to stimulating conversations on contemporary problems, art forms have a capacity to evoke unprecedented results. More than simple expression, art brings to light the issues facing society, enables acceptance, and  unifies people of diverse backgrounds. It functions as a major vehicle of change for problem-solving and individual growth by inspiring individuals and communities to trace the path of evolution and transition.

The historical significance of art in India

India is a country enriched with varied art forms, especially in the context of performing arts. Its cultural heritage is intertwined with several types of artistic expressions, including classical dances and music, theatre arts, and folk performances. As a result, India’s art history is imbued with initiatives for their proliferation. In fact, artisans and performers were supported and financed by the ruling class such as royal courts and temples. This has even led to contemporary developments wherein India's commitment towards keeping these art forms alive has led to a whole range of initiatives to nurture and preserve them.

However, artforms in India have had a tumultuous past when it came down to inclusivity. Performing arts were restricted to privileged segments of  society in view of social hierarchy and above all casteism, highlighting the systemic inequities. This paved the way for limited access to performers and audiences,  while restricting freedom of experience for those excluded.

Later, it was during the freedom struggle movement in India, ie., towards the end of the 19th and early decades of the 20th century, that some forms of art became potent weapons of non-violent expression against the ruling colonials and unifying Indians across all strata. National efforts in the forms of patriotic songs like Vande Mataram and folk art forms were used to instill the spirit of unity. The messages of resistance that local songs, plays, and other forms of visual art divulged, reached bigger audiences and united people across all social divisions.

In fact, a lot of notable artists also led the pathway for unifying India through their respective artforms during the freedom struggle. One of the most celebrated luminaries of Indian dance, Shri Uday Shankar combined forms rooted in tradition with new expressions while evoking nationalism among Indians. Rani Gaidinliu, the spiritual leader of the Nagas, added to the resistance movement by promoting indigenous art practices.  These were supplemented by the revival and popularization of classical Indian dance forms, like Bharatanatyam which was brought into the limelight. This initiative was spearheaded by iconic figures like Mrinalini Sarabhai and Rukmini Devi Arundale. Their work did not just revitalise the artistic heritage of India but also subtly acted as resistance to the colonial disdain towards Indian culture.

Together, these artists wielded their talents to bridge social factions by rallying masses in a non-violent struggle for independence. These developments assimilated into the realization that these artforms are crucial elements of our culture which cannot be neglected. As a result, there are multiple art forms which are now being revived as symbols of India's rich cultural heritage.

Contemporary Stance:

Unfortunately, performing arts are perceived to be an unconventional profession in the present age by young Indians. Limited chances of professional growth with scarce monetary incentives have aggravated this state. This is further supplemented by the lack of adequate support and recognition by the government. Inconsistent financial support with poor infrastructural facilities are the main attributes of this problem. Obviously this makes it difficult for the artists to build a career in the performative arts as their career. This also leads up to institutional vacancies which have severe implications on their learning ability and skill sets. 

The Ministry of Culture has brought in numerous initiatives through organizations such as the Sahitya Kala Akademi and Lalit Kala Akademi. The ‘Global Engagement Scheme’ is a one such initiative wherein Indian artists and performers would be given the opportunity to perform abroad under the banner of ‘Festival of India’ at government expenses. Recently,