2026 for January 1970

In Jaipur nearly 250 families carry forward one of Rajasthan’s oldest folk art forms, Kathputli.

Kathputlis is a traditional string puppet play from Rajasthan.
It is one of Rajasthan’s oldest folk art forms.
The name comes from kath (wood) and putli (doll), reflecting their simple yet expressive construction.
A kathaputli is made up of wood, cloth, thread, and metal wire. Its upper body is made up of wood, and the rest is made of cotton and fabric.
They do not have legs and are covered with long trailing skirts.
The puppeteer manipulates them with his fingers tied with two to five strings.

They possess distinctive facial features like large eyes, oval faces, large lips, and arched eyebrows.
Their colourful attire draw inspiration from royal courts and desert traditions, while their sharp features and exaggerated expressions add drama to every movement.
Theme: Historically, Kathputli performances were used by travelling performers to narrate tales of Rajput kings, brave warriors, folk heroes, and moral stories to village audiences.
Each puppet represents a character from everyday life or folklore.
It is accompanied by folk music on the dholak and harmonium.
The performances brim with humour, music, and satire, often reflecting social realities alongside legendary tales.

Source: TH

Kathputli FAQs

Q1: Kathputli performances typically narrate?

Ans: Folk tales, legends, and moral stories

Q2: Kathputli is a traditional puppetry form from which state?

Ans: Rajasthan