Traditional Indian Puppet Theater Performances & Storytelling

The Soul of the Performance

At Dhaatu, puppetry is a practice of 'kartavya nishta', or dedication to duty. My work involves bringing the Dakshina Bharata sampradaya to life, using string, shadow, and hand puppets that are often inspired by the architectural details of Hoysala temples. My team and I do not simply present a show; we present a narrative.

What to Expect

We offer performances ranging from short, interactive demonstrations for schools and intimate gatherings to grand productions like 'Vijayanagara Vaibhava' or our adaptations of the Ramayana.

• Small-Scale Immersion: Perfect for groups of 25 or more, our heritage walks provide a glimpse into the mechanics of puppetry and the history of our museum collection.
• Standard Productions: We bring the stage, the puppets, and the storytelling to your venue. These performances typically last one hour and are ideal for events where you want to offer guests an experience that is traditional, cultural, and quiet.
• Grand Productions: For larger events, we create immersive experiences with complex sets and larger puppet casts, transporting audiences through time.

The Mandala Cultural Centre

If you prefer to host an event at our space, the Mandala Cultural Centre offers a sanctuary from the noise of the city. We have purposefully kept this an open, sunlit environment with stone paths and green lawns. It is a space for those who value art, nature, and deep, rooted conversation over loud distractions.