Sanskrit drama in India has been around for centuries and is more than just an entertainment genre, it is built into the cultural aspect of Delhi and most areas of the country. It is based on earlier traditions though the distinct nature of this performance has been in existence from the late BC centuries. Sanskrit productions are not highly performed today, though their influence on performance is distinct and relevant. Its origins spring from the Rigvedic dialogue hymns, which predate this art form and extend far into ancient history. These dialogues, based on mythological archetypes represent some of the earliest forms of dramatic literature, predating even those of Western Greek and Roman theatre. Sanskrit drama is an essential aspect of experiencing the culture of India. Many Western tourists who are staying in one of the Delhi 5 star hotels seek out a theatre performance as one of their first activities. A basic awareness of Sanskrit drama makes it a much richer experience.

The Natya Shastra is an essential text on the Sanskrit theatre and offers theories on performance, technique and even criticism. While the authorship has not been verified it is usually given to the Sage Bharata, and is believed to have been written sometime between 200 BC and 200 AD. It addresses every aspect of the performance arts including stagecraft, makeup, music and the purpose of these productions. It has had an influence on Indian dance, literature and music, in addition to its relevance to drama. There is a strong argument suggesting that it is the basis of the fine arts of India. The text describes some 10 different styles of drama and discusses the nature of staging, the relevance of dance and makes an analysis of the music and the scales used. It approaches its discussion on performance through 4 different categories, the angika, the vAchika, the AhArya, and the sAttvika. The angika provides a treatise on the nature of bodies in motion. The vAchika addresses the nature of speech and its relevance to the dialogue. The AhArya deals with make-up and costume design and their symbolic relevance and purpose. The sAttvika addresses what is considered to be the highest form of the art and deals directly with the subtle nature of lip and eye movement. The Natya Shastra has been compared in relevance to the Poetics of Aristotle, a treatise that has had a tremendous impact on Western theatre and dramatic theory.

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