| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| UNESCO Recognition | Ritual theatres like Kutiyattam, Mudiyettu, Ramman, and Ramlila recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). |
| Kutiyattam | - Oldest surviving classical theatre from Kerala.<br>- Combines Sanskrit drama with Kerala's temple traditions.<br>- Performances last up to 40 days.<br>- Features precise eye and hand expressions. |
| Mudiyettu | - Dance-drama ritual in Kerala depicting Goddess Kali's battle.<br>- Performed post-harvest in Bhagavati Kavus.<br>- Involves mask-making and community participation. |
| Ramman | - Festival theatre in Uttarakhand.<br>- Honours Bhumiyal Devta.<br>- Features masked dances, epics, and songs.<br>- Performed in April. |
| Ramlila | - Dramatic retelling of Ramayana during Dussehra.<br>- Major performances in Ayodhya, Ramnagar, and Varanasi.<br>- Lasts from 10 days to a month. |
| Sangeet Natak Akademi | - Established in 1953 to preserve performing arts.<br>- Supports documentation, training, and recognition of ritual theatres.<br>- Offers grants and organizes festivals. |
| Community Role | - Ritual theatres involve community participation in funding, performing, and preserving traditions.<br>- Transmitted through oral traditions and apprenticeships. |
| Cultural Transmission | - Ritual theatres transmitted through guru-shishya parampara.<br>- Annual performances foster intergenerational learning. |
| Fusion of Forms | - Combines dance, music, storytelling, mask-making, and craft.<br>- Reflects artistic richness and spiritual values. |
| UNESCO ICH List | India has 15 elements on UNESCO's Representative List of ICH, with ritual theatres playing a vital role. |
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