--- title: "Cultural Puppet Festivals and Art Events in Bengaluru | Dhaatu" description: "Join our traditional puppet festivals and cultural events at Mandala Cultural Centre. Experience doll exhibitions, storytelling, and puppet shows in Bengaluru." canonical: https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/cultural-experiences-venue-rental/festivals-special-events last_updated: 2025-09-08 --- # Cultural Festivals and Traditional Puppet Celebrations in Bengaluru Tribe Verified · Hosting cultural puppet festivals for 29 years. By [Dhaatu](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere) · Located at Mandala Cultural Centre, Kanakapura Road · ₹250 Per Person (Min. 25 Pax) (estimate) Part of [Cultural Experiences & Venue Rental](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/cultural-experiences-venue-rental). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/cultural-experiences-venue-rental/gallery) We open our doors at the Mandala Cultural Centre for gatherings that honor our roots. From our annual Navaratra Mahotsava to the International Puppet Festival, these celebrations are crafted to bring families and communities closer to the ancient art of storytelling. ## Photos and videos - ![The official announcement for our Dhaatu Navaratra Mahotsava, a month-long celebration of dolls, stories, and art. This annual event is a cornerstone of our cultural calendar.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7311c971-ea9f-4ab8-8a30-e1b149ef8f77) - ![The brochure for the 12th edition of the Dhaatu International Puppet Festival. This event brings together artists from across the country and the world for a three-day celebration of puppetry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2f4a8258-5b4b-43ec-a775-0b116c60a37d) - [Video: An invitation to the Dhaatu Puppet Santhe, a one-day puppet festival at our centre. These events include puppet shows, artist interactions, workshops, and storytelling for all ages.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/292dcd5b-4960-44f2-a198-3a9168045ff4) - [Video: A video montage from our Dhaatu Navaratra Mahotsava, showcasing the intricate doll displays and festive atmosphere. The event celebrates themes of Indian life, mythology, and spirituality.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ab1f762c-c496-425b-a123-242d3ca955fe) - [Video: Step into the magical world of dolls and stories at our annual Navaratra Mahotsava. This video highlights the grand scale and rich detail of our 'bombe habba' or doll festival.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e820d59f-ea1a-4f85-9522-96de741db299) - [Video: This is an overview of our Puppet Museum Group Tour package. It is a 90-minute experience that includes a guided tour, experiential puppet play, and a short puppet show for a minimum of 25 members.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b9ed44ae-c796-4439-97cc-24ed5dd5f5e9) ## About Festivals & Special Events These festivals are community gatherings rather than commercial spectacles. Whether you are visiting our doll displays during Navaratra or attending an international puppetry performance, expect seating on floor mats or simple chairs, reflecting the traditional Bharatiya way of life. We prioritize the connection between the audience and the art over luxury amenities, so please come prepared to sit on the ground and immerse yourself in the storytelling. ### Our Cultural Hub At the Mandala Cultural Centre, we curate festivals that serve as a bridge between modern Bengaluru and our rich heritage. Our festivals are not merely performances; they are learning spaces. ### The Navaratra Mahotsava (Bombe Habba) Every year, we host the Navaratra Mahotsava, where we display traditional dolls that depict Indian life, mythology, and spirituality. This event is a cornerstone of our calendar, designed to help the next generation connect with our culture. It is a month-long celebration of art and storytelling that is open to the public. ### Dhaatu International Puppet Festival We also organize the International Puppet Festival, bringing together master puppeteers from across India and the globe. This event features: * **Live Performances:** Showcasing various puppetry forms including string, shadow, and rod puppets. * **Artist Interactions:** Opportunities to engage with the puppeteers and understand the craftsmanship behind the art. * **Workshops:** Focused sessions on puppet making and traditional storytelling techniques. ### Important Details for Visitors * **Environment:** Our events take place in a semi-open, rustic structure surrounded by nature. We do not allow plastic or loud, modern DJs, as we wish to preserve the sanctity of the cultural experience. * **Accessibility:** We welcome everyone—from families and children to scholars and artists. Please check our specific event listings for recommended age groups and entry fees, as some festival days offer free entry while others may have a nominal ticket price. * **Arrival:** For public festivals, we recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before the scheduled showtime, as seating is often managed on a first-come, first-served basis. ## About Dhaatu I am Anupama Hoskere, and for me, puppetry is a kartavya nishta—a heartfelt duty. My team and I invite you to step into the Mandala Cultural Centre, where we blend ancient art forms with the natural world. This is where we keep our stories alive for the next generation. 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