Kathputli

Kathputli Latest News

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

About 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.

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Features of Kathputli

• 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