Every year, on the 21st of March, the global community converges in celebration of puppetry, an art form that transcends time and culture

On the 21st of March, every year, the world comes together to celebrate the enchanting art form of puppetry. This day pays homage to the rich history and cultural significance of puppetry, tracing its origins from ancient civilizations to its modern-day relevance as a powerful medium of communication. From Asia to Europe, Africa to the Americas, puppetry has woven itself into the fabric of human expression, captivating audiences with its blend of entertainment, education, and social commentary.

From the mystique of ancient Egypt’s religious ceremonies to the grandeur of Greece and Rome’s theatrical spectacles, puppets danced across stages, breathing life into myths, legends, and tales of old. In the East, the delicate intricacies of Chinese puppetry, the vibrant story-telling of ‘Indian Puppet Theater’, and the mesmerising performances of Indonesian ‘Wayang’ (the Javanese word for ‘shadow’ or ‘imagination’ that originated in the 10th century from the thalubomalata of Southern India) captivated audiences with their diverse styles and techniques, showcasing the boundless creativity of human imagination. Across continents and epochs, puppetry served not only as entertainment but as a profound expression of cultural identity, tradition, and story-telling prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the collective heritage of humanity.

India, too, celebrates a rich puppetry legacy spanning millennia. Known as “Kathputli” (combining ‘kath’ for wood and ‘putli’ for dolls) in Hindi, puppetry weaves tales, educates, and entertains, mirroring India’s cultural vividness. From Rajasthan’s vibrant shows and South India’s intricate shadow puppetry, they all showcase this diversity. Throughout history, puppets have been vehicles for social and political discourse, challenging norms and stimulating reflection. Here, besides narrating religious epics and tales, imparting moral wisdom, and advocating for social causes like gender equality, environmental conservation, etc, puppetry conveys a delicate, but strong message. Embedded within their strings, lies a timeless tradition, echoing the heartbeat of a nation.

In this colourful landscape of Indian puppetry, numerous renowned puppeteers have left an indelible mark with their mesmerising performances and innovative story-telling techniques. One such luminary is Sangeet Natak Akademy Awardee, Puran Bhatt, a master puppeteer from Rajasthan, whose vibrant ‘Kathputli’ performances have enchanted audiences for decades. Hailing from the Bhatt community, Puran Bhatt’s puppet shows are a celebration of Rajasthani folklore and mythology, featuring lively characters, intricate costumes, and dynamic music. His dedication to preserving and promoting the art of ‘Kathputli’, has earned him accolades both nationally and internationally, showcasing the enduring appeal of traditional puppetry in contemporary times.

In South India, the art of shadow puppetry, known as “Tolpava Koothu,” has thrived under the skilled hands of puppeteers like K. K. Ramachandra Pulavar. As a fifth-generation puppeteer, Pulavar has inherited a rich legacy of story-telling, passed down through generations of his family. Through his captivating shadow plays, Pulavar brings to life ancient epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, using intricately crafted leather puppets and vibrant light effects. His performances not only entertain but also educate, imparting moral lessons and cultural values to audiences young and old.

It is undeniable that puppetry serves as a powerful vehicle for cultural expression and communal bonding worldwide. Southeast Asian nations like Indonesia and Thailand embrace traditions such as “Wayang Kulit” and “Nang Talung,” weaving entertainment with spiritual significance and enriching rituals and festivals. Across Africa, Mali’s “Sogo bo” showcases intricate wooden puppets, conveying ancestral wisdom and moral teachings. Moreover, South Africa’s puppetry catalyses social change and cultural preservation. Also, Latin American countries like Mexico and Peru celebrate puppetry, blending wrestling with theatre for social commentary and reviving ancient forms like “Sarhua” to reinforce community pride and identity. These diverse puppetry traditions transcend borders, offering timeless tales and moral lessons that resonate across generations, fostering unity and celebrating cultural heritage worldwide.

Not only this, puppetry workshops and educational programmes play a crucial role in empowering marginalised communities by providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and preserve their cultural heritage. Organisations like the ‘Bread and Puppet Theatre’ in the United States and the ‘Hina Community Theatre’ in Nepal are a few examples, which conduct workshops and training sessions that empower individuals to create and perform puppetry productions that address social issues, promote cultural diversity, and foster community engagement.

Reflecting on puppetry, Jim Henson, the American puppeteer, animator, cartoonist, actor, inventor, and filmmaker who achieved worldwide notability as the creator of the Muppets says that “Puppetry is a magical art form that transcends language and culture, captivating audiences with its boundless creativity and imagination.”

Julie Taymor, the American director and writer of theatre, opera, and the fame of stage adaptation of The Lion King, believes that “Through the art of puppetry, we can explore the depths of human emotion and experience, shedding light on the beauty and complexity of the human condition.” 

Further, according to actor Richard Bradshaw “Puppetry is not just entertainment; it is a powerful medium for social change, offering a voice to the voiceless and challenging the status quo.”

In the realm of contemporary Indian puppetry, Dadi Pudumjee stands as a pioneering figure, pushing the boundaries of the art form with his innovative approach and collaborative

spirit.

As the founder of the ‘Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust’, Pudumjee has spearheaded numerous initiatives to revitalise and modernise puppetry in India. His groundbreaking productions blend traditional techniques with the modern art of telling stories, addressing pressing social issues and contemporary themes. Through workshops, festivals, and international collaborations, Pudumjee has played a pivotal role in elevating the status of Indian puppetry on the global stage, showcasing its relevance and adaptability in the modern world.

It is also undeniable that puppeteers, especially in India face great hardships. The July 2022 issue of the International Journal of English and Studies (IJOES) features an article by Sweta Gour discussing the declining tradition of puppetry in India. Gour highlights factors such as lack of patronage, modernization, and technological distractions contributing to its demise. Poverty among puppeteers, inadequate support, and limited awareness further threaten its existence. 

Dadi Pudumjee has time and again emphasised the need for puppetry to evolve to remain relevant. Through various forums, Pudumjee has underscored the challenges faced by puppeteers in maintaining financial stability and therefore, suggests innovation as crucial for its survival. Pudumjee says that without adaptation, traditional puppetry risks becoming obsolete amid changing audience preferences and technological advancements.

Since they are characters, not people, the puppets create a world in which we recognise ourselves and identify with the characters as the drama unfolds. Our job, as audiences, is to keep this tradition alive and going and see that this art doesn’t decline and fade away as another bygone chapter of history. The timeless tales created by these engaging puppets hanging by their strings must go on. 

(The writer is programme executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti; views are personal)