Chhattisgarhi Folk Elements in Habib Tanvir's Play Charandas Chor

Abstract

Habib Tanvir's Charandas Chor masterfully uses folk theatre traditions to bring the voices of marginalized communities to the forefront. By employing the Chhattisgarhi dialect, folk culture, dance, and storytelling techniques, Tanvir not only highlights the cultural richness of rural India that of Chhattisgarh but also challenges the elitist norms of mainstream theatre. This approach makes the play a powerful commentary on marginalization, giving visibility to the struggles, resilience, and moral complexities of those often ignored in dominant narratives. Charandas, the main character, is a thief who vows five promises to his Guru. Through the character of Charandas and the setting of a rural Indian society, the play highlights how systemic inequality and power dynamics marginalize certain groups while exposing the hypocrisies of those in power. Tanvir integrates elements of Nautanki and Jatra, traditional Indian folk theatre forms, to tell the story of Charandas. These forms are deeply rooted in rural life and are accessible to common people, allowing the play to resonate with marginalized audiences. The simplicity of folk performance styles, with their humor, music, and direct engagement with the audience, mirrors the straightforward yet profound wisdom of rural communities. Besides, by using folk traditions, Tanvir centers the experiences of the rural poor, challenging the idea that high culture or morality resides only in elite spaces. The folk medium allows the play to critique social and political inequalities in a way that is both accessible and empowering for marginalized audiences.