Rajkot, India – On World Theater Day, celebrated on March 27, a fascinating piece of history has emerged from the ancient city of Junagadh. The world's first and oldest theater has been found within a Buddhist cave located in the historic Uparkot Fort of Junagadh.
The city's name, Junagarh, is derived from the old fort, which houses many historical treasures. Among these is the Buddhist cave currently under the control of the Archaeological Department of the Center. Archaeologists Rasesh Zamindar and Ravi Hajarnish have noted that while the cave may have initially been carved for Buddhist activities, further research indicates it was used for theatrical purposes by high-ranking dignitaries.
The cave's architectural form suggests it may have been known as Pramod Bhavan or Rang Bhavan. It features an open square for dance and drama performances on the ground floor, special seating for royalty or dignitaries, a beauty room for performers, seating arrangements, and an abundance of natural light.
The Kshatrapas, who ruled the region from the 1st to 4th century AD, are believed to have carved the cave during their reign. This discovery solidifies the cave's status as the oldest known Rang Bhawan. Evidence supporting this claim includes a figurative
couple on a pillar and the expressive faces of male and female pairs admiring the art within the cave.
The State Archaeological Department first mentioned these findings in 1995 in a booklet about Uparkot, authored by C.M. Atri, as well as in an article by Dinkar Mehta. The discovery of the world's oldest theater in Junagadh's Uparkot Fort sheds light on the rich cultural and historical significance of the region, drawing attention to its unique and ancient past.
As interest in this groundbreaking discovery grows, it is expected that researchers will continue to study the ancient theater and its role in the lives of the dignitaries who once frequented it. This newfound knowledge also serves to underscore the importance of preserving and studying historical sites to better understand and appreciate the evolution of human culture and art over time.
