The rich history of Indian theatre is not only built on legendary actors or institutions like the National School of Drama — it’s also carved by iconic plays that have challenged minds, stirred hearts, and sparked cultural conversations. These plays span from classical Sanskrit dramas to modern social commentaries, offering a panoramic view of India’s theatrical legacy.
Whether rooted in mythology or grounded in everyday reality, these plays reflect the diverse soul of India — its struggles, joys, contradictions, and ideals.
Timeless Classics and Modern Masterpieces
Here’s a curated list of some of the most famous and influential Indian plays across languages and regions:
1. Abhijnanasakuntalam – by Kalidasa
Language: Sanskrit
A poetic masterpiece from the Gupta period, this classical drama tells the love story of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala. Filled with romance, separation, and reunion, it showcases the grandeur of classical Indian aesthetics and has influenced art and literature for centuries.
2. Tughlaq – by Girish Karnad
Language: English (translated in multiple Indian languages)
A political and psychological drama, Tughlaq explores the mind of the 14th-century Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq, known for his visionary yet controversial decisions. The play is a sharp commentary on power, ambition, and disillusionment, and is still relevant in today’s socio-political climate.
3. Andha Yug – by Dharamvir Bharati
Language: Hindi
Set in the aftermath of the Mahabharata war, this modern verse play is a symbolic reflection on destruction, ethics, and morality. It’s widely regarded as one of the most powerful anti-war plays in Indian theatre history.
4. Hayavadana – by Girish Karnad
Language: Kannada
Blending folk tales with philosophical questions of identity, perfection, and human desire, Hayavadana is a modern classic that incorporates elements of traditional theatre like Yakshagana while breaking new ground in form and storytelling.
5. Pagla Ghoda – by Badal Sircar
Language: Bengali
A hauntingly poetic play featuring four men from different walks of life sharing their experiences of love and loss. It dives deep into the emotional landscape of masculinity, guilt, and vulnerability, leaving a lasting impression.
6. Adhe Adhure – by Mohan Rakesh
Language: Hindi
A gritty, realistic portrayal of a middle-class urban family trapped in emotional chaos. Adhe Adhure explores themes of incompleteness, failed relationships, and societal pressure, making it one of the most performed plays in modern Hindi theatre.
7. Ghashiram Kotwal – by Vijay Tendulkar
Language: Marathi
A bold political satire that critiques corruption and authoritarianism, set in 18th-century Pune. With its unique mix of folk music, dance, and Brechtian style, the play remains a landmark in Indian experimental theatre.
8. Nagamandala – by Girish Karnad
Language: Kannada
A feminist folktale that explores female desire, social expectation, and folklore, where a neglected wife’s story intertwines with the mythical world of cobras and spirit tales.
9. Court Martial – by Swadesh Deepak
Language: Hindi
A powerful play that addresses caste discrimination and social injustice within the military setting. It highlights how deep-rooted inequalities can persist even within supposedly disciplined systems.
10. Evam Indrajit – by Badal Sircar
Language: Bengali
A philosophical and existential play, questioning the monotony of middle-class life and the meaning of individual choices in an indifferent world. The play broke away from conventional structure and narrative style, making it a landmark in Indian modern theatre.
Continuing the Legacy
These plays are not just stories performed on stage — they are cultural artifacts, each marking a moment in time, thought, and expression. Theatre in India continues to evolve, but the impact of these iconic works remains deeply woven into its fabric.
They are taught in drama schools, revived in festivals, adapted into films, and performed by amateur and professional groups alike. Through them, the Indian stage lives on — bold, questioning, and alive with emotion.
