Call For Papers: Brecht in India – Translations, Adaptations, Performances, and Critical Perspectives
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Organization: Bangalore University
Call For Papers:
Brecht in India – Translations, Adaptations, Performances, and Critical Perspectives
Overview
As a Researcher, with a focus on Kannada literature and performance, I am excited to invite submissions for an edited volume titled Brecht in India: Translations, Adaptations, Performances, and Critical Perspectives. My own research has centered on Bertolt Brecht's reception in Kannada theatre, where I uncovered an impressive 32 translations of his plays into Kannada, spanning from early post-independence efforts to contemporary reinterpretations. These findings highlight Brecht's significant influence on regional Indian theatre, blending his epic techniques with local forms like Yakshagana and modern Kannada drama. Building on this regional insight, I now seek to broaden the scope to a national perspective, gathering original research papers that examine Brecht's transcultural legacy across India's diverse linguistic, cultural, and sociopolitical landscapes. This volume will explore how Brecht's dramaturgy has been adapted to address pan-Indian issues such as caste dynamics, postcolonialism, and globalization, fostering a comprehensive dialogue on his enduring relevance.
Rationale
My journey into Brecht began with an in-depth study of his works in the Kannada context, revealing not only the 32 translations but also how directors and playwrights like B.V. Karanth and Prasanna have infused Brechtian alienation with indigenous elements to critique social hierarchies. This regional lens has inspired me to investigate Brecht's impact on a national scale, where his epic theatre resonates with India's multifaceted theatrical traditions—from Bengali Jatra to Tamasha . Brecht's emphasis on defamiliarization and sociopolitical engagement aligns closely with Indian folk forms that prioritize presentational styles and community involvement, making his theories particularly adaptable to addressing contemporary challenges like inequality and cultural hybridity. Nationally, Brecht's influence emerged prominently in the post-independence era, influencing Marxist theatre movements in Bengal and beyond, as seen in adaptations by figures like Utpal Dutt and Habib Tanvir. Translations of Brecht into languages such as Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil have democratized access to his works, while intercultural collaborations, including those with directors like Fritz Bennewitz, have enriched Indian performances. This volume aims to expand on such scholarship by compiling diverse perspectives, illuminating how Brecht's legacy contributes to a unified yet varied Indian theatrical identity amid global influences.
Themes
Contributions should address Brecht's works through a national Indian framework, drawing connections across regions. Possible topics include, but are not limited to:
Relevance of Brecht in the Indian Context: Explorations of Brecht's pertinence to national sociopolitical discourses, including intersections with indigenous traditions and their role in shaping postcolonial and modern Indian identities.
Translations of Brecht's Works: Analyses of translations across Indian languages (e.g., the 32 Brecht translations in Kannada, alongside those in Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and others), focusing on linguistic nuances, cultural adaptations, and their impact on broader accessibility.
Adaptations of Brechtian Drama: Studies of national adaptations, such as fusions with regional folk forms, reinterpretations by Indian playwrights like Girish Karnad or Badal Sircar, and hybrid productions that incorporate Brecht into pan-Indian narratives.
Critical Views of Brechtian Performances in India: Evaluations of performances nationwide, including directorial innovations, audience responses, and critiques of how epic elements and alienation techniques appear in works by groups from various states (e.g., Kannada theatre, Bengali IPTA, or contemporary ensembles).
Intercultural Exchanges and Collaborations: Examinations of cross-regional and transnational dialogues and collaborative projects that extend beyond singular linguistic or geographic boundaries.
Brecht’s Influence on Indian Theatre Movements: Assessments of Brecht’s impact upon Indian theatre practices, including feminist, subaltern, and regionally specific perspectives.
Comparative Analyses of Reception: Comparative studies of Brecht’s reception across Indian languages and cultures that highlight both national commonalities and significant divergences. Submission Guidelines
Abstracts:
Submit a 300-500 word abstract detailing your proposed chapter, along with a brief bio (100 words) and contact information.
Deadline for Abstracts: December 31, 2026.
Notification of Acceptance: January 15, 2026.
Full Papers: Accepted authors will submit chapters of 6,000- 8,000 words (including references) by February 31, 2027.
Format: MLA 9th Edition style; Times New Roman, 12 Font Size,
All submissions must be original and not under review elsewhere.
Submission Email: Please send materials to brechtinindia@gmail.com with the subject line "CFP: Brecht in India Submission."
I particularly welcome contributions from scholars, practitioners, and emerging researchers across India, with an emphasis on diverse regional expertise.
Publication Details
All accepted papers will undergo a rigorous peer-review process. The volume will be published by a reputable academic publisher to ensure scholarly rigor and global reach.
The Publication of the Edited volume is anticipated in mid-2027.
For any questions, please contact me at brechtinindia@gmail.com.
I look forward to your insights as we collectively map Brecht's national footprint in India.
Sincerely,
Dr. Raghavendra H K
Assistant Professor,
Department of English,
Jnanabharathi Campus
Bangalore University
Dr. Raghavendra H K