Rajkot: The world’s oldest theater is present in the Buddhist caves of Uparkot

March 27 is celebrated as World Theater Day i.e. World Theater Day. On this occasion, another interesting history of Junagadh tells that the world’s first and oldest theater is still present in a Buddhist cave in Uparkot Fort of Junagadh.

There is a lot of history stored in this historical city.

The name Junagarh is derived from the name of the old fort. Many histories are preserved in this historical city. In which the Buddhist caves in the historical fort of Uparkot are under the possession of the Archaeological Department of the Center. Archaeologists Rasesh Zamindar, Ravi Hajarnish have mentioned that this Buddhist cave appears to have been carved for Buddhist activities, but based on the findings of scholars, it appears that this cave was not meant for religious activities but for high-ranking dignitaries. It was carved for theatrical experiments.

Looking at its architectural form, it can be called Pramod Bhavan or Rang Bhavan. As it has an open square for dance and drama on the ground floor, special seating for kings or dignitaries, beauty room for beauties, seating arrangements and plenty of natural light reflect this.

Kshatrapas ruled from 1st to 4th century AD

This is confirmed by the figurative couple on the pillar as well as the staring faces of the male and female pair looking at the art. The Kshatrapas ruled here from 1st to 4th century AD. This cave must have been carved during that time. Hence it can be called the oldest Rang Bhawan. All these things were mentioned by the State Archaeological Department in the year 1995 by C.M. Atri in a booklet about Uparkot as well as in Dinkar Mehta’s article.