Indian theatre is the most ancient form of Asian theatre. Theatre in India has developed so much during the early days that it featured a detailed textual, sculptural and dramatic effect.

Indian theatre is defined by the concept of Natya. It is like the areas of Dance and Music in Indian Theatre. Natya is the dramatic performance, performed on a stage before an audience. Natya is Sanskrit for drama and it encompasses a dramatic narrative, with virtuostic dance and music. Indian theatre was recognized well beyond the limits of national borders. It became popular in ancient China and in other countries in Far East.

Indian theatre emerged as Sanskrit theatre in the second century BCE. It flourished between the 1^st Century CE and the 10^th century CE. Sanskrit theatre was not exclusively in Sanskrit language only. Theatre in India was played in other Indic languages, which was collectively called as Prakrit. It was used in addition to Sanskrit.

Currently, theatre in India plays a dominant role in the world of Entertainment. Stage drama is immensely popular in states such as Maharashtra, Bengal and in the Southern states in India. The southern states in India have a very detailed stage performance history of dance and music forms. The real fan followings in dramatics, music and dance forms have kept Indian theatre alive and kicking till date.