Date/Time
Date(s) - 08/04/2025 - 09/04/2025
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Location
Seminar Hall
Categories
Two day International Conference on “Heroine Archetypes in
Indian Theatre: Modern Perspectives on Feminist Discourse” at
IIAS, Shimla
08-09 April 2025
Concept Note:
This conference is designed to delve into the evolving understanding of Nāyikā Bheda, the traditional classification of heroines in Indian dramatic tradition, and its reinterpretation through contemporary feminist discourse. Nāyikā Bheda, as detailed in classical texts like the Nāṭyaśāstra, has long provided a framework for the portrayal of female characters in Indian theatre. These archetypes not only
shaped the narratives of ancient and medieval Indian drama but also influenced societal perceptions of women’s roles. However, in today’s context, the relevance and interpretation of these archetypes are subject to significant transformation. The modern era, characterized by
evolving gender dynamics and the rise of feminist thought, challenges the traditional roles and expectations imposed on women. This conference aims to critically examine how the ancient archetypes of Nāyikā Bheda align with or diverge from contemporary notions of gender roles and female agency.
By bringing together scholars, theatre practitioners, and gender studies experts, this conference will explore the intersection of traditional heroine archetypes with modern feminist theory. It will assess how these classical classifications are being
reinterpreted or challenged in contemporary Indian theatre, literature, and media, reflecting the broader shifts in cultural and societal attitudes towards women. Through this exploration, the conference seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the changing dynamics of feminist thought in the Indian cultural context, offering fresh insights into the ways in which Indian theatre continues
to engage with, reinterpret, and sometime resist the narratives of female identity as outlined in its classical traditions.
Objective:
The primary objective of this conference is to create a platform for scholars, practitioners, and students of Indian theatre, gender studies, and cultural studies to engage in a multidimensional discussion on:
1. The historical significance and evolution of Nāyikā Bheda in Indian theatre.
2. The representation of heroines in classical and contemporary Indian drama.
3. The intersection of traditional heroine archetypes with modern feminist theory.
4. The implications of these archetypes in shaping contemporary perceptions of womanhood in Indian society.
5. The role of Indian theatre in reflecting and influencing societal attitudes towards gender.
Key Themes:
The conference will focus on the following key themes:
1. Nāyikā Bheda in Classical Texts: A detailed exploration of the classification system as outlined in the Nāṭyaśāstra and its influence on
later literary and dramatic works.
2. Modern Interpretations: How contemporary playwrights and directors reinterpret these archetypes in light of modern feminist discourse.
3. Cultural Continuity and Change: The persistence and transformation of heroine archetypes in different regional and cultural traditions of Indian theatre.
4. Feminist Revisions: Examining plays that challenge or subvert traditional Nāyikā archetypes to present more complex, empowered female characters.
5. Interdisciplinary Approaches: Integrating perspectives from gender studies, sociology, and cultural history to provide a comprehensive
understanding of the topic.
6. The Future of Nāyikā Bheda: Speculating on the relevance and application of these archetypesin future Indian theatre and media.
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