Scholars have reached a consensus that shadow theatre originated in Asia and various theories have been proposed regarding its uncertain country of origin.Currently,there is no clear evidence identifying Central Asia as the possible birthplace.Indian shadow theatre has a longer history than that of China and Central Asia.In Southeast Asia,Indian culture has greatly influenced the Chinese shadow theatre.Indian Buddhism has been a major source of inspiration,and Indian performance techniques,such as Indian shadow theatre have also impacted Chinese actors.This paper analyzes the historical timeline,performance forms,communication and influence,ultimately concluding that Asian shadow theatre originated in India.