Maharashtra
There are two types of puppetry forms prevalent in the
state Maharashtra. They are the Kalasutri Bahulya, (string
puppetry) and chamadyache Bahulya (shadow puppetry).
Kalasutri Bahulya: These are small puppets without legs.
The puppets have only two joints at the shoulders and
manipulating strings are attached to the head and hands of
the puppet. Themes or episodes from Ramayana area narrated
through folk tunes. This art form is almost on the brink of
extinction in the state due to poor patronage and
promotion.
Chamadyache Bahulya: These shadow puppets have no jointed
limbs and are delicately coloured with vegetable dyes.
Episodes from Ramayana are narrated using folk tunes. This
form is also in the brink of extinction. This form is
prevalent only in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra.
Contact
PAVAI
A tribute to the art of Indian puppetry and its practitioners
Puppetry, which is a real challenge to the imagination and the creative ability of the individual, is one of the most ancient forms of entertainment.
Besides entertainment, puppetry serves as an applied art, conveying meaningful messages.
Of all art forms, it is probably the least restricted in form, design, colour and movement.
It is also the least expensive of all animated visual art forms.
