Description

This introductory section reflects on the making of a special 2007 issue of Natak Budreti dedicated to 150 years of Gujarati theatre. S. D. Desai and Hasmukh Baradi describe the long, difficult, yet rewarding editorial journey behind the publication.

The editors explain that preparing the issue demanded enormous time, patience, editing, rewriting, proofreading, and coordination with contributors. Many writers submitted articles late, some sent incomplete material, and others could not contribute despite repeated reminders. Because of space limitations and editorial consistency, the editors sometimes shortened or modified articles while preserving their core ideas.

The publication aimed to document the 150-year journey of modern Gujarati theatre and present it to readers who did not know Gujarati. The issue explored the struggles, achievements, and contributions of actors, directors, playwrights, theatre owners, technicians, and other theatre workers. It was designed as a research-oriented documentation project by Theatre Media Centre (TMC/Budreti).

The editors note that Gujarati theatre, in its modern form, has a history of around 150 years, while the folk theatre tradition of Bhavai is nearly 500 years old. The publication therefore attempted not only to record modern theatre history but also to reconnect with Gujarat’s older theatrical roots.

The historical section by Govardhan Panchal discusses the origins of Bhavai. The traditional Bhavai performers, known as Tragalas or Nayakas, believe Asait Thakar to be the founder of the form. Asait is said to have written 360 veshas (dramatic acts), though only a limited number survive today. His work dates back to around 1360 A.D.

The article further explains that Bhavai evolved from earlier Indian dramatic and dance traditions such as Hallisaka, Rasaka, and Natya Rasaka. Over time, classical forms became overly complex, and Asait simplified theatre by using local language, folk tunes, direct speech, and accessible performance styles. This process made Bhavai a people’s theatre rooted in Gujarati folk culture.

Overall, the text combines editorial reflection, theatre history, and cultural documentation. It highlights the importance of preserving Gujarati theatre heritage through research, republication, translation, and critical study.

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