PUPPETRY

1. Context

Some communities, including in West Bengal, Odisha and in Delhi, are struggling due to lack of state support and patronage and simply because they could not upgrade their skills in keeping with the times

2. What is Puppetry

Puppetry is a form of artistic expression and storytelling involving puppets, objects or figures manipulated by puppeteers to convey characters and narratives. It is an ancient art form that has been practised in various cultures around the world for thousands of years

Believed to be more than 3,000 years old, puppetry across India is performed in 18 different traditions, including ‘Chamadyache Bahulya’ (leather puppets) of Maharashtra, ‘Beni Putul’ (glove puppets) of West Bengal, ‘Tholu Bommalata’ (shadow puppets) of Andhra Pradesh, ‘Tholpavakoothu’ (shadow puppetry) of Kerala and the traditional ‘Kathputli’ of Rajasthan

Rajasthani Kathputli Puppet Show for Birthday Party in Bhopal. - Birthdaywala.in

3. Key takeaways

India boasts a rich heritage of puppetry, with different states showcasing their unique puppetry forms.
For example, Rajasthan is renowned for its Kathputli, string puppets made from wood and cloth.
The puppeteers skillfully manipulate the puppets, accompanied by folk music and storytelling, to depict tales from epics and folklore.
Kathputli puppetry has gained recognition both within India and internationally, with performances being held at festivals and cultural events
Similarly, the ancient art of shadow puppetry, known as Togalu Gombeyaata, thrives in Karnataka
This form uses intricately designed leather puppets to cast shadows on a screen, creating enchanting visuals accompanied by traditional music and narration
Togalu Gombeyaata performances continue to enthrall audiences, preserving the cultural heritage of the region

Marionette Puppetry: Marionettes are string puppets suspended and controlled by strings or wires attached to various parts of the puppet's body. Puppeteers operate marionettes from above, manipulating the strings to create lifelike movements.
Shadow Puppetry: Shadow puppetry uses flat, cut-out figures made from materials like leather, cardboard, or paper. These puppets are held between a source of light and a screen, casting shadows that are visible to the audience. The puppeteer manipulates the puppets behind the screen, creating silhouettes that depict characters and actions.
Rod Puppetry: Rod puppets have long rods attached to their bodies, which puppeteers manipulate to control their movements. The rods are often hidden beneath the puppets' clothing or scenery, allowing for precise control and expressive gestures.
Bunraku Puppetry: Originating in Japan, Bunraku involves large puppets operated by multiple puppeteers. The puppeteers are visible on stage, dressed in black, and work together to manipulate different parts of the puppet, including the head, hands, and feet.

6. Way forward

In conclusion, World Puppetry Day celebrates the rich and diverse puppetry traditions in India.

While some puppetry forms thrive and continue to captivate audiences, others face numerous challenges in the modern era.

Economic constraints, changing audience preferences, and limited support hinder the sustainability and growth of these art forms

However, through the efforts of passionate puppeteers, collaborations with contemporary artists, and the utilization of digital platforms, Indian puppetry can be revitalized and preserved for future generations

For Prelims: Puppetry, types of puppetry, puppetry in all states

For Mains: 1. What is puppetry? Discuss types of poetry across India. explain the challenges faced by artists especially when technology has evolved so much.

Source: indianexpress

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PUPPETRY

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