As part of the Media Masterclass program organized by the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) and Saksham Sanchar Foundation, students from Army Public School visited City Palace. Apart from exploring the beautiful historical museums and the palace itself, students experienced the enchanting yet dying art of Kathputli. For many students, this was their first encounter with such a unique and traditional performance, which they thoroughly enjoyed. The Kathputli presenters do not solicit money; instead, mesmerized tourists and visitors often give them money as a token of appreciation.

History of Puppetry

Kathputli, the traditional puppet art form of Rajasthan, continues to enchant visitors at the City Palace in Jaipur despite the challenges it faces in the modern era. This ancient art, with its vibrant puppets and engaging storytelling, offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. Kathputli craft is an ancient and one of the most popular performing arts of Rajasthan, a state in western India. The word “kathputli” derives from “kaath” (wood) and “putli” (toy).

Socially, puppet players from a caste group are attached through the “jajmani system” to other castes. Traditionally, it was a system of patronage supported by kings and well-off families. The patrons would look after the artists in return for the artists singing praises of the patrons’ ancestors. Thus, the artists, or Bhats, became genealogists.

These artists preferred to move out of their village and travel to places like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Nepal, and are even believed to have reached Burma and Ceylon. The puppet show comprises a tent, or tambudi, which may be made with seven bamboo poles or with two lightweight cots put up lengthwise. The backdrop, front, and decorative curtains are supported on this frame. The puppeteers are concealed behind this arrangement. The puppet consists of three parts – the head and shoulders made of wood, the hands and torso stuffed with cotton and covered with the character’s garment, and the string. Legs are not designed in traditional puppets, with a few exceptions.

The sounds for the performance are produced by two instruments – the dholak, or hand drum, and the boli/shrutti. The boli is a musical instrument made of two thin and small bamboo strips with a reed in between, producing a sharp sound by blowing air in and out. The sound of the boli represents the speech of the puppets, and the drummer translates this for the audience.

Challenges Faced

In recent years, Kathputli has struggled to survive amidst rapid modernization and changing entertainment preferences. Many traditional puppeteers, known as Bhats, have abandoned their craft due to the lack of sustainable income and support. The art form, which once thrived in royal courts and village squares, is now fighting to stay relevant. The City Palace in Jaipur, a prominent tourist destination, has become a sanctuary for Kathputli artists. Regular performances are held here to showcase this dying art to a global audience. Tourists are often captivated by the skillful manipulation of puppets, the lively music, and the dramatic storytelling that Kathputli performances offer.

Tourist Attraction

Visitors to the City Palace are often drawn to the Kathputli shows, finding themselves mesmerized by the animated puppets and the tales they tell. These performances provide a unique cultural experience, allowing tourists to connect with Rajasthan’s artistic traditions.

Efforts to Revive Kathputli

Various organizations and cultural groups are working to revive and sustain Kathputli. Workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations with contemporary artists are some of the initiatives aimed at breathing new life into this art form. Additionally, increasing tourism and interest in cultural heritage have helped bring attention to the plight of Kathputli artists.

Summing Up

While Kathputli faces numerous challenges, its enduring charm continues to captivate audiences at the City Palace. Efforts to preserve and promote this traditional art form are crucial in ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of Rajasthan’s cultural landscape for generations to come. As tourists witness the magic of Kathputli, they are not only entertained but also become part of the ongoing journey to keep this art form alive.