Semiotics of Traditional v/s Modern Space in Folk Theatre with Special Reference to the Maand System of Goan Folk Tradition

Abstract

Folk theatre in Goa like any other region of India is ritualistic in nature. These performances to mention a few like Zagor, Ranmaalem, Kaalo are not performed anywhere and everywhere. There is a special space assigned for their performances traditionally. Maand is a space in most of the villages of Goa which is reserved for social, economic and cultural interactions. Most of the folk theatre performances are carried out in these open spaces. With the advent of technology and an exposure to concretization, the traditional Maands are losing their significance. In the modern times these spaces have been replaced by modern spaces. Another factor leading to the decline of significance of this traditional performance space is the commercialization of the folk theatre forms. This paper tries to trace the journey of traditional space to the modern space, its conflicts and probable solutions, if any, to tackle this hegemony.