Exploring the Foundations of Indian Performing Arts
The Nāṭyaśāstra, the ancient Indian treatise on dramaturgy and performance, forms the philosophical and technical foundation of classical Indian theatre traditions.
Dr. Kannan Parameswaran’s work in Natyasastra focuses on understanding the principles of gesture, expression, body language, aesthetics, and performance philosophy that shape traditional Indian theatre forms such as Kathakali and Kutiyattam.
Through workshops, lectures, and research-based teaching, he introduces students, theatre practitioners, and scholars to the deeper concepts of the Nāṭyaśāstra and its relevance for contemporary performance practice.
Workshops
Dr. Kannan conducts specialized workshops for students, theatre practitioners, dancers, and scholars interested in exploring the theory and practice of traditional Indian theatre.
Natyasastra Workshop
This workshop introduces participants to the core concepts of the Nāṭyaśāstra, one of the foundational texts of Indian performing arts.
Participants explore topics such as:
- The philosophy of Indian theatre
- Rasa theory and emotional aesthetics
- The structure of dramatic performance
- Principles of acting and stage presentation
- The role of body language and expression in storytelling
The workshop combines theoretical study with practical demonstrations, allowing participants to experience how ancient theatrical principles continue to influence classical performance traditions.
Hasta and Abhinaya Workshop
The Hasta and Abhinaya Workshop focuses on the expressive language of classical Indian theatre.
Participants learn about:
- Hasta (hand gestures) used in traditional theatre
- Abhinaya (expressive acting techniques)
- Facial expressions and emotional communication
- Body movement and storytelling through gesture
These workshops are especially valuable for actors, dancers, theatre practitioners, and performing arts students seeking to deepen their understanding of expressive performance.
Workshop on Indian Traditional Theatre (Kathakali)
This workshop introduces participants to the theatrical traditions of Kathakali, one of the most visually powerful classical theatre forms of India.
Participants explore:
- Acting methods in Kathakali
- Character interpretation
- Gesture language and dramatic expression
- The philosophical foundations of performance
These sessions provide both historical understanding and practical training, helping participants appreciate the depth and complexity of traditional Indian theatre.
You can explore more about Kathakali activities here:
Kathakali Performance
https://kannanparameswaran.com/kathakali-performance/
Kathakali Training
https://kannanparameswaran.com/training/
Talks
Dr. Kannan delivers lectures and presentations on subjects related to Natyasastra and Indian theatre traditions.
His talks explore topics such as:
- The relevance of Nāṭyaśāstra in modern theatre
- The philosophy of Indian aesthetics
- Rasa theory and emotional expression
- Traditional acting techniques
- The relationship between spirituality and theatre
These talks are presented in universities, cultural institutions, theatre workshops, and academic forums in India and abroad.
Articles
Dr. Kannan has written articles and research essays on:
- Nāṭyaśāstra and classical theatre theory
- Kathakali acting methods
- Body language and semiotics in performance
- The relationship between philosophy and theatre practice
His writings contribute to the academic understanding of Indian theatre traditions and performance aesthetics.
Books
Dr. Kannan’s books and research works explore various aspects of:
- Nāṭyaśāstra studies
- Kathakali theatre
- Performance theory and aesthetics
- Indian Knowledge Systems
These publications provide valuable insights for researchers, students, and theatre practitioners interested in the study of Indian classical theatre.
Selected books and research works are available on this website as digital flipbooks for reading and reference.