From Traditional to Modern: The Transformation of Indian Drama through Vijay Tendulkar’s Silence! The Court is in Session

Abstract

Vijay Tendulkar, a pioneering figure in Indian theatre, played a crucial role in transforming Indian drama from its traditional roots to a modern, hybridized form. This paper explores how Tendulkar’s works reflect the evolution of Indian drama by blending indigenous cultural elements with Western modernist influences. Traditional Indian drama, rooted in Sanskrit plays and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, focused on moral dichotomies and societal norms. However, post-colonial Indian English drama, as exemplified by Tendulkar, shifted toward addressing contemporary socio-political issues, particularly those affecting the urban middle class. Tendulkar’s Silence! The Court is in Session serves as a case study, highlighting themes such as patriarchy, gender roles, and social hypocrisy. Through the mock-trial concept, the play critiques societal injustice and the subjugation of women, symbolizing the broader struggles of modern Indian society. Tendulkar’s humanitarian approach challenges established norms, advocating for authenticity, sincerity, and a new moral order. His focus on psychological, existential, and feminist issues underscores the fragmentation of modern life. By analyzing Tendulkar’s unique lens, this paper demonstrates how Indian drama evolved into a platform for social critique and cultural hybridity.