The Puppets PDF Print E-mail

The traditional temple based rod puppets of Mr.Rao definitely speak of a rare form, both in manipulation style and traditional background. These puppets usually weigh around 3-5 kgs each. A unique character of this puppet style is the cane ring control that the puppeteer wears on his head and holds in place with his turban.The ring supports the movement of the puppets head and shoulders.

That calls for immense concentration as well as physical strength of a puppeteer of this art form.The lavish costumes and jewellery and music form the essence of these puppet performances where mythological stories from the Bhagavata and the Ramayana are usually chosen. Embellished with old-time tunes and stylized dance and dialogues, the performances are usually in Kannada, a major south Indian language.