Consider the following statements:
1. It is a folk theatre tradition of North India.
2. It is a night-long performance.
3. It developed under the patronage of Akbar and Wajid Ali Shah.

The above given statements describe which one of the following theater forms ?
(a) Bhavaai
(b) Nautanki
(c) Pala
(d) Yakshagana

Question

Consider the following statements:
1. It is a folk theatre tradition of North India.
2. It is a night-long performance.
3. It developed under the patronage of Akbar and Wajid Ali Shah.

The above given statements describe which one of the following theater forms ?
(a) Bhavaai
(b) Nautanki
(c) Pala
(d) Yakshagana

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Nautanki is a folk theatre tradition of North India, especially popular in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan. It is known for its dramatic storytelling, singing, and musical interludes.It is typically a night-long performance, featuring melodramatic themes drawn from history, mythology, and social issues. It flourished under the patronage of Mughal emperor Akbar and later, Wajid Ali Shah, the Nawab of Awadh. Wajid Ali Shah was a connoisseur of arts and played a significant role in promoting theatrical and musical traditions.
Other incorrect options:
Bhavaai (a): A folk theatre of Gujarat, not North India.
Pala (c): A folk theatre tradition of Odisha, based on religious storytelling.
Yakshagana (d): A theatrical dance-drama from Karnataka, different from Nautanki&rsquo;s singing-based format.

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Folk Theatre Traditions of North India

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
Consider the following statements: 1. It is a folk theatre tradition of North India. 2. It is a night-long performance. 3. It developed under the patronage of Akbar and Wajid Ali Shah. The above given statements describe which one of the following theater forms ? (a) Bhavaai (b) Nautanki (c) Pala (d) Yakshagana