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Rajhastani
Puppets- Introduction to Puppets
A
boy from Rajhastan showing off his puppet |
A
woman almost done making a puppet |
Kathputli
or puppets are considered by the Bhat caste, that makes
them and performs with them, to be manifestations of the
goddess
For millennia, people around the world have
used performing arts to convey their most important social
values and cultural ideals. In addition, they provide cultural
critiques, alter the social order, and are imbued with great
symbolic meaning. The same is true of the kathputli or puppet
tradition of Rajasthan, as the practitioners of this ancient
art have entertained, made social commentary, and passed
down important information for countless generations. In
fact, many scholars believe that puppetry even predates
human theater on the subcontinent. Also, the low social
position of the Bhats, who uphold the kathputli tradition,
allows them to express controversial ideas and social critiques
in ways that members of other castes cannot.
Lifestyles
of the Puppeteers:
Like
other entertainer castes, the Bhat puppeteers traditionally
lived in close-knit social units and had a semi-nomadic
way of life that revolved around seasonal work. Members
of this caste usually lived in extended family units that
were led by the eldest male puppeteer. During the monsoon
season, which usually runs from mid June to September in
Rajasthan, the Bhats would remain close to home to cultivate
their land. They would also visit and recite genealogies
for other caste groups in their villages.
Children in front of Deras making
puppets
|
Woman
making a bag-pipe
|
