இயற்கையே அரங்கு: இலங்கையின் மரபுசார் சூழலியல் அறிவை தற்கால நாடக எழுத்துருக்களில் மீட்டெடுத்தல்

Abstract

Contemporary theatrical trends heavily focus on human emotions and social conflicts, reducing nature to a mere background or a decorative element. This anthropocentric approach presents a significant limitation for the field of theatre arts, particularly in an era marked by escalating ecological crises. In contrast, Sri Lanka's traditional art forms—such as Koothu (traditional dance-drama), ritualistic practices, and folk songs—perceive nature as a vital, living entity. This study examines how the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) of Sri Lanka can be reclaimed and integrated into contemporary playwriting as both modern artistic techniques and core thematic content. Specifically, through a qualitative analysis framework, this research investigates ritualistic ceremonies of the Batticaloa region, including Mazhaikkaviya (Rain Ballads) and Maari Theertham (Rain Miracle Rituals), to explore how nature is venerated as a sacred force and personified as an active protagonist. Drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of Environmental Theatre and Ecodramaturgy, this paper proposes methodologies for utilizing this traditional ritualistic language and land-based imagery in new theatrical productions. The primary finding of this study indicates that a new eco-conscious theatrical culture can be fostered through specific strategies, such as giving nature a voice as a character within scripts and demanding natural physical spaces in stage directions. Consequently, this study establishes that contemporary dramatists must evolve beyond being mere storytellers to become artistic activists dedicated to environmental preservation.