Folk theatre has been one of the most vibrant and enduring forms of theatrical expression in India. It developed through the interaction of local traditions, religious practices, oral narratives, music, dance, storytelling, and community celebrations. Unlike classical theatre, which was largely shaped by formal aesthetic principles and texts such as the Natyashastra, folk theatre grew organically among communities and reflected their everyday experiences, beliefs, social relationships, festivals, and regional identities. Its evolution demonstrates the ability of Indian theatre to preserve cultural memory while continuously adapting to changing social conditions. The origins of Indian folk theatre can be traced to ancient performance traditions in which storytelling, music, dance, ritual, and dramatic representation were closely connected. Over centuries, these practices developed differently in various regions according to local languages, customs, religious traditions, and social structures. Folk performers generally travelled from village to village or performed during fairs, festivals, religious gatherings, and community celebrations. Performances were usually held in open spaces, with minimal scenery and simple costumes and properties. The audience was not merely a passive observer but often became an active participant. This direct relationship between performers and spectators gave folk theatre its distinctive vitality. The growth of folk theatre was also closely associated with the transmission of oral traditions. Stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, regional legends, devotional traditions, heroic tales, and local histories were transformed into dramatic performances. Folk theatre therefore became an important means through which communities passed cultural knowledge from one generation to another. Even when performers were not formally educated, they preserved extensive repertoires of songs, dialogues, stories, gestures, and performance techniques through memory and practice. Jatra is one of the important folk theatre traditions of eastern India, particularly associated with Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and neighbouring regions. It developed from religious processions and devotional performances and later expanded into secular and social subjects. Traditionally, Jatra is characterized by energetic acting, dramatic dialogue, music, singing, exaggerated gestures, and a highly expressive style. Performances often take place in open spaces, allowing a large audience to participate. Initially dominated by religious themes, Jatra gradually incorporated historical, political, social, and contemporary issues. Its ability to respond to current events has helped it remain relevant. Jatra has also influenced modern theatre through its use of direct audience engagement, musical narration, heightened acting, and flexible performance spaces. Kathakali, associated primarily with Kerala, represents a highly developed form of dance-drama