Ramlochan Vishwakarma

Ramlochan Vishwakarma 'Sanwariya'

Indian Nautanki Writer, Poet and Folk Artist

Born: Gadhiyav village, Karchhana Tehsil, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India

Died: 10 September 2024

Nationality: Indian

Occupation: Nautanki Writer, Poet, Folk Artist

Notable Works: 150 Nautanki books written by Ramlochan Sanwariya, Chhin lo roti, Namak ka Daroga, Nautanki performances on the COVID-19 pandemic

Awards: Senior Fellowship, Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Ramlochan Vishwakarma 'Sanwariya'

Early life and family background

Ramlochan Vishwakarma, widely known by his pen name Sanwariya, was born in Gadhiyav village, Karchhana Tehsil, in the Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh. He belonged to a family deeply embedded in traditional Indian folk art. His father, Brahmyagya Vishwakarma, was a master carpenter, poet, and Nautanki performer, while his grandfather, Ram Kumar Bhagat, was also an accomplished folk artist. This artistic lineage significantly shaped Ramlochan's early life, sparking his interest in Nautanki, the popular folk theater form of northern India.

Career in Nautanki

Ramlochan Vishwakarma emerged as a prominent figure in the world of Nautanki, a traditional folk theater form popular in northern India. Nautanki, known for its lively performances and strong storytelling, became the medium through which he expressed both timeless and contemporary themes. Ramlochan was known for his ability to craft engaging narratives that drew from Indian culture while also addressing modern social issues.

Contribution to Modern Nautanki

One of Vishwakarma’s key contributions to the Nautanki tradition was his effort to modernize the genre. Traditionally focused on mythological and historical themes, Nautanki under Ramlochan’s influence began to tackle social issues that resonated with modern audiences. His adaptation of Munshi Premchand's Namak ka Daroga was a prime example of how he integrated classic literary works with the folk art tradition. This performance dealt with themes of justice and corruption, bringing Premchand’s story to life in a folk theater setting. Most popular nautanki in north India is chhin lo roti.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ramlochan further demonstrated his ability to reflect contemporary concerns in his work. He created performances that highlighted the struggles and hardships faced by ordinary people during the pandemic, thereby using Nautanki as a platform for social commentary and public awareness.

Style and themes

Ramlochan Vishwakarma’s writing and performances were known for their rich use of local dialects, traditional music, and dance. His works maintained the essential vibrancy of Nautanki while also engaging with contemporary issues. Themes of justice, moral integrity, and social reform ran through his performances, making his work accessible and meaningful to diverse audiences.

Recognition and awards

Ramlochan Vishwakarma’s contributions to the field of Nautanki and folk theater were widely recognized. Among his many accolades, he was awarded a prestigious Senior Fellowship from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. This fellowship was a testament to his efforts in preserving and promoting the art of Nautanki while infusing it with fresh relevance for new generations.

Legacy

Ramlochan Vishwakarma passed away on 10 September 2024, leaving behind an enduring legacy as one of the most significant Nautanki writers of his time. His innovative work in blending traditional folk art with modern themes has ensured that Nautanki remains a vibrant and evolving art form. His contributions continue to inspire folk artists and keep the spirit of Nautanki alive in contemporary Indian culture.