---
title: "Puppetry Performances & Traditional Indian Cultural Shows - mytribe"
description: "Experience mesmerizing puppetry performances by Padma Shri awardee Dhaatu. Book traditional Indian puppet theater for cultural shows, events & festivals. Witness epic stories like the Ramayana come to life. Hire us for an unforgettable artistic experience."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows
last_updated: 2025-09-08
---

# Puppetry Performances & Cultural Shows in Bengaluru

By [Dhaatu](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere) · We perform live Indian puppet shows using hand-crafted puppets and traditional techniques, often mixing dance and stories from epics and history.

## Locations

Shows at Mandala Cultural Centre; Travels across Bengaluru and India

### Travels to

- Performed at venues across Bengaluru (Bengaluru, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India)
- Travels across India for shows (India, India)

### Visit at

- Performance at Mandala Cultural Centre, Kanakapura Road (performs near Konanakunte Cross, JP Nagar, Banashankari, Forum Falcon City Mall, Kumaraswamy Layout, Jayanagar)

## Pricing guide (estimates)

These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote.

### Interactive Heritage & Educational Workshop

90-minute lecture-demonstration covering puppet mechanics and history, led by a senior artist without full stage setup.

Typically ₹20-28K per session (90 mins) (estimate)

#### Session Format
*   **Format:** Lecture-Demonstration (Lec-Dem) focusing on the history and mechanics of puppetry rather than a continuous play.
*   **Demonstration:** Live demo of puppet manipulation showing string and joint movements.
*   **Visual Aids:** Display of Shadow, Rod, String, and Glove puppets for comparative history.

#### Logistics & Interaction
*   **Host:** Conducted by a senior Dhaatu artist (often the Director).
*   **Interaction:** Includes a Q&A segment and opportunities for audience members to try manipulating practice puppets.
*   **Setup:** Requires simple raised platform or floor space (no proscenium stage needed).
*   **Language:** Delivery available in English, Kannada, or Hindi.

### Classic String Puppet Performance

60-minute traditional storytelling with 3-4 puppeteers, a 10x8ft self-standing proscenium stage, and 10-15 heavy wooden puppets.

Typically ₹35-45K per show (up to 60 mins) (estimate)

#### Performance Details
*   **Duration:** 45 to 60 minutes of performance time.
*   **Content:** Classic narratives from Ramayana, Mahabharata, or Panchatantra using strictly traditional Karnataka String Puppetry.
*   **Audio:** High-fidelity pre-recorded narration and music for perfect synchronization.

#### Production Specs
*   **Stage:** Includes a portable, self-standing proscenium stage (approx. 10ft x 8ft footprint).
*   **Puppets:** Uses 10-15 authentic, gallery-quality wooden puppets (2-3 feet tall) dressed in traditional silks.
*   **Crew:** Team of 3-4 professional puppeteers for manipulation and backstage logistics.
*   **Lighting:** Basic halogen or LED stage lighting provided to focus on the stage.
*   **Logistics:** Includes equipment transport within Bengaluru city limits.

### The Dhaatu Grand Theatrical Production

90-minute magnum opus featuring live Bharatanatyam dancers, 6-10 artists, fog effects, and changing palace-style backdrops.

Typically ₹1-1.3L per show (60-90 mins) (estimate)

#### Scale & Artistry
*   **Format:** Hybrid performance integrating live Bharatanatyam dancers interacting with puppets on stage.
*   **Cast:** Large ensemble of 6-10 artists including lead puppeteers, dancers, and technical directors.
*   **Puppetry:** Uses complex 'Rod & String' puppets allowing for intricate movements like object manipulation.

#### Technical Setup
*   **Scenography:** Elaborate, multi-layered painted backdrops and set pieces (e.g., palace arches) that change between scenes.
*   **Effects:** Use of dry ice (fog machines) for celestial sequences and dramatic entries.
*   **Lighting:** Comprehensive lighting plot with focused spots and color gels managed by a dedicated technician.
*   **Timeline:** Requires 4-6 hours of pre-event stage assembly and sound check.

## About Puppetry Performances & Cultural Shows

### Why We Do What We Do

For us at Dhaatu, puppetry isn't just an art - it's our kartavya (duty). I see it as a way to hold on to our roots, especially now when everything is moving online. We pour our heart into each show, hoping it gives you something real and memorable - not just another screen experience.

### What Makes Our Shows Stand Out

- Our main thing is traditional string puppetry performances, or Sutrada Bombe. Every puppet is hand-carved, painted, and dressed like they’re ready for a festival.
- We go big with some productions, using rod and string puppets together for a lively stage.
- Sometimes, we mix puppetry with classical dance. It’s not common, but it has its own charm - the puppets and dancers together make old stories pop.
- We stick to Indian classics. Think Ramayana puppet show, tales from Vijayanagara, Meera Bai’s devotion, even stories from India’s freedom struggle.

### Our Festivals

- We host Dhaatu International Puppet Festival in Bengaluru - artists from all over come, and the vibe is pura josh (full of energy).
- During Dasara, our Bombe Habba (doll festival) runs with dance, storytelling and puppet shows. Both kids and adults find something to love.

### What You’ll Get

A Dhaatu show is loud, colourful, sometimes emotional, and always desi (Indian at heart). It’s for kids, adults, anyone who wants to see cultural storytelling with puppets like it’s meant to be.

## Highlights

Browse through Dhaatu's best work.

### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/featured)

- ![This is the stage for our production, "Vijayanagara Vaibhava," set against the magnificent Gagan Mahal in Anegundi. We believe in creating immersive experiences, where the performance setting is as grand and authentic as the stories we tell. This show brings to life the golden era of the Vijayanagara kings, celebrating a time when art and culture flourished.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/36db5ef9-e337-4230-ba9e-8f34312375da)
- ![Here is a close-up of one of our handcrafted puppets representing the tribals of Malwa. Every puppet is a labor of love, meticulously carved, painted, and adorned with traditional attire and jewelry. We focus on these details to ensure each character on stage is not just a puppet, but a personality with its own story.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/35e610e6-d2d7-43e0-88f3-fbe59a011f81)
- [Video: Through our puppets, we narrate stories that are central to the Indian identity, including tales from our freedom struggle. This performance recounts the story of Vidurashwatha, known as the Jallianwala Bagh of the South. We see it as our duty, our kartavya, to keep these important historical memories alive for the next generation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/28446667-7005-40c6-a382-500cd5be88ce)
- ![We often blend traditional string puppetry with classical dance, a unique fusion that brings a dynamic energy to our storytelling. In this scene from "Malavikaagnimitram," a live dancer interacts with the puppets, creating a beautiful dialogue between two distinct art forms. This combination allows for a richer, multi-layered performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ce5a967-f9b0-4bca-a762-f0ee8b9f8f26)
- ![The journey of each puppet begins in our workshop, with my own hands. Here, I am giving life to a character by painting its features, a process that requires immense focus and a deep connection to the art form. This hands-on approach ensures that the soul of the story is embedded in every puppet we create.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c324a178-b289-4bc2-a934-462494c3d79d)
- ![A performance is only complete with its audience. This image captures a moment where children and adults are engrossed in our puppet show. Our goal is to create a shared experience that transcends age, offering something real and memorable that brings families and communities together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/162d9a29-643c-4ecb-8b56-66ab1d44275a)
- [Video: Our work is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional arts of Bharata, a commitment that was recently honored with the Padma Shri. This video showcases some of the puppets from my installation at the Bangalore Airport, which depicts the nine emotions or 'rasas'. It is a blessing to see this art form receive such recognition.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3faba032-37c3-41f7-ba42-a77d71393c27)

### [Grand Productions: Malavikaagnimitram](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/grand-productions-malavikaagnimitram)

- ![This is the official announcement for our performance of "Malavikaagnimitram" at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. It is always an honor to bring the work of Mahakavi Kalidasa to such esteemed venues.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6fd99b79-c0d4-46a3-9a16-f136853680bb)
- ![A key element of this production is the seamless interaction between live dancers and puppets. Here, a dancer performs alongside the puppet stage, creating a dynamic narrative that bridges two artistic worlds.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4981bc0d-6f67-4d50-86a6-88b4b835563b)
- ![The stage is set to create a world of royalty and romance. This wide shot shows a live dancer in motion, with the puppet characters providing context and depth from their own stage, a technique we use to create a multi-dimensional performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7321686a-dec1-440f-89ed-4ec4c77bc5d3)
- ![A close-up of the interaction between a live dancer and the royal court puppets. This unique blend of puppetry and classical dance is a hallmark of our interpretation of "Malavikaagnimitram."](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ce5a967-f9b0-4bca-a762-f0ee8b9f8f26)
- ![Another view of the synergy between the dancer and the puppets, showcasing a moment of reverence and storytelling within the play.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/939c2307-369f-462a-a757-bea9f6c7dd76)
- ![The performance captures the subtle emotions of the characters, both human and puppet. This scene highlights the expressive potential of combining live dance with the intricate movements of string puppetry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a60cdcdf-e6f4-4b26-a6d1-f9f22e87d830)
- ![A moment of drama unfolds on stage, with the dancer's expression mirroring the narrative being enacted by the puppets.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ad1e30b2-38cc-4afb-af9d-a39c09c8aeab)
- ![We use special effects like theatrical fog to create an ethereal and dramatic atmosphere. This scene shows a veiled puppet, adding a layer of mystery and beauty to the production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/26bddf7c-96a5-46e3-b1d7-94d7fe758915)
- ![A similar atmospheric shot, where lighting and fog transform the stage into a dreamlike space, enhancing the poetic quality of Kalidasa's play.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c7f500a7-2be6-4ee7-a96a-8db375516d22)
- ![The use of colored lighting, here a deep purple, helps to set the mood for different scenes. Two puppets are seen in a quiet, intimate moment amidst the dramatic fog.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/50f61312-582a-4f5c-9931-cb4c62741a79)
- ![Another perspective of the same scene, showing how we use lighting and stagecraft to evoke specific emotions and create visual poetry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8828bc6c-791c-4d6b-80a1-f618a521b1a1)
- ![A scene set under a tree, where puppets interact in a naturalistic setting. The stage design is crucial for telling the story and creating a believable world for the characters.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/47c360b7-538a-4bf5-bfd7-5d205534c0be)
- ![The same scene from a slightly different angle, highlighting the placement of the puppets and the details of the set.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9040535c-b475-407c-bf96-bbb0d0bf0175)
- ![Two female puppet characters in conversation, showcasing their detailed costumes and expressive postures.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5282a600-a599-466e-9c3a-2371ae8a3878)
- ![A similar view of the two puppets, emphasizing the intricate stage design with the lattice and foliage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f7ea487f-fb28-4d22-aa1a-3ea065cc15fb)
- ![In this production, we also incorporate shadow puppetry to narrate certain parts of the story. This ancient technique adds a different texture and a sense of timelessness to the performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/43957f03-e6e5-421d-8991-4d2d707e0afa)
- ![A closer look at the shadow puppets, depicting a scene of conflict or action. The silhouettes are crafted to be clear and dynamic, telling a story through form and movement alone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1f55a5c-9e00-4138-a214-71fa895e618a)
- ![The full stage view during a court scene, with a live dancer paying respect to the puppet king and queen. This demonstrates the scale of our productions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/67e86f57-1076-4fee-855c-1d50bd7b9748)
- ![An identical shot to the previous one, reinforcing the grandeur of the court setting in "Malavikaagnimitram."](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/687e219a-2fa2-41e7-97f2-224b3dd00237)
- ![After the performance, I often address the audience to share insights about the production and the art of puppetry. It is a joy to connect with a full house of art lovers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/64f00425-d801-4dbb-bd6e-8ece376622e6)
- ![Another view of me speaking to the audience, who are the reason we do what we do. Their appreciation gives us the energy to continue our work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bc90d26d-4707-4f85-915f-437e2ab9f856)
- [Video: This video captures moments from our performance at the J.N. Tata Auditorium, including an introduction to the play and my address to the wonderful audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a9f7fa9d-dae4-49c1-8553-46d9860385b9)

### [Historical Epics: Vijayanagara Vaibhava](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/historical-epics-vijayanagara-vaibhava)

- ![Our stage for "Vijayanagara Vaibhava," meticulously designed to reflect the architecture of the era, set before the actual Gagan Mahal. We believe in transporting the audience back in time through authentic and grand stagecraft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f9026d92-3c55-412e-a220-b9d6b561cb01)
- ![The view from the audience, as families gather to watch the story of their ancestors unfold. It was a blessing to perform for the people of Anegundi, in the very land where this history took place.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/339657a6-57c2-452f-9bee-97576f3cb325)
- ![Another perspective showing the rapt attention of the crowd. Bringing our heritage to life for a new generation is the core of our mission at Dhaatu.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a06d30e7-9adc-43c4-9797-56d05e96f756)
- ![The vibrant lights of the stage illuminate the night, creating a magical atmosphere for the audience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ff348043-3bee-4c5f-87eb-165270bcdbf2)
- ![A single puppet takes the stage, holding the attention of the entire audience. This shot highlights the intricate design of the stage backdrop, inspired by Vijayanagara architecture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4f98d77d-29e9-4c27-804d-e35813039e83)
- ![An identical shot showing the puppet performer on the grand stage, a testament to the scale of the production.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/54903188-6636-4d0d-9c94-0487f07d56ff)
- [Video: The grand finale of our show, where the entire troupe of puppeteers and dancers comes together on stage. This clip captures the energy, color, and collaborative spirit of our performances.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/89641b2a-d122-4ab2-aaa3-5667016a4b3b)
- ![Our Dhaatu team with our generous hosts, Raja Krishnadevaraya and Rani Rathnashree Raya of Anegundi. It was an honor to be supported by patrons who are so deeply connected to this living history.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a2622421-3307-4466-b422-84443462903a)
- ![Members of our team taking a bow after the performance. Each show is a collective effort, and I am grateful for the dedication of every artist.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4baebb6c-80db-41b9-8b21-9e48e3c69cbb)
- ![A duplicate shot of our team acknowledging the audience's applause, a moment of shared gratitude.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9e5330bb-e5c7-4be4-9c9b-06b4cbcfaccf)
- ![The performance begins with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, invoking blessings for the show. Here, I am seen participating in the ritual with our hosts and team.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/57b3ea82-eda1-42c2-bd1b-278fd111bc65)
- ![Another view of the inaugural ceremony, a sacred start to an evening of storytelling and cultural celebration.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ae8dc373-9f37-41d2-a0be-fb8f68c97400)

### [The Soul of the Puppet: Handcrafted Artistry](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/the-soul-of-the-puppet-handcrafted-artistry)

- ![A beautifully adorned female puppet, possibly a queen or a goddess, showcasing the intricate jewelry, costume, and expressive features that are a signature of our work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e7bdef84-0349-4d71-9ff3-dcde6322b176)
- [Video: This video showcases a series of puppets created for an installation, each representing one of the nine 'rasas' or emotions. Notice the detailed costumes, wooden jewelry, and distinct postures that define each character.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3faba032-37c3-41f7-ba42-a77d71393c27)
- ![A glimpse into our workshop, where an army of Jambavan puppets is being prepared. This shows the process of creation, from the raw wooden forms to the final painted characters ready for the stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/20113ce4-a5e6-4a78-b5ac-62d867b5d495)
- ![A puppet depicting the sage Kanva from our production of "Abhijnaana Shaakuntalam." The character's wisdom and gentle nature are conveyed through his expressive, hand-painted face and simple attire.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e011d242-7917-49e6-9d5e-f9e436de664a)
- ![This is the puppet for our "Ashtavakra" show, a story from the Mahabharata. The design of the puppet is central to telling the story of the sage who was born with physical deformities but possessed immense wisdom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b002488c-6ffc-4737-ab87-fc3654d00b4c)
- ![A display of puppets depicting the story of Gajendra Moksha. Here you can see Lord Vishnu on Garuda, the elephant Gajendra, and the crocodile, all crafted to bring this powerful mythological tale to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1d4b6d9b-8347-4a73-8e6d-20f194f76ad1)
- ![A scene depicting the descent of the Ganga, with Lord Shiva, Bhagiratha, and Ganga Devi. Our doll displays often narrate complex stories through static, beautifully arranged scenes.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/69e023ef-8953-4e0b-916f-8cc0317b6601)
- ![A group of puppets on display, led by Lord Ganesha. This collection includes musicians and dancers, representing the vibrant cultural life that we portray in our shows.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/399999ee-0710-4322-80c0-2c45123c3cb9)
- ![A display of royal puppets, including Lord Krishna and other kings from mythology. The golden breastplates, intricate crowns, and rich fabrics showcase the regal nature of these characters.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/da1d88d6-6151-44f4-91f3-c76b5e5fbd09)
- ![Puppets on display, framed to highlight their individual artistry. This allows viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship of each character up close, outside of a full performance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c6c857f3-9eb9-40d4-b25c-79703ab07d55)
- ![A full tableau from a story, likely Shakuntala, set up for a doll festival or exhibition. These displays allow us to tell stories in a different format, creating a miniature world for viewers to explore.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/936dbc52-bd6f-4650-a106-55f14dee41ef)

### [Our Cultural Festivals & Community Events](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/our-cultural-festivals-community-events)

- ![The official brochure for the Dhaatu International Puppet Festival 2023. This event is a confluence of artists from across India and abroad, creating a vibrant atmosphere of cultural exchange.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2f4a8258-5b4b-43ec-a775-0b116c60a37d)
- [Video: An announcement for the "Ram Janmutsav" performance, part of our 2025 International Puppet Festival. The schedule shows a diverse lineup of shows, from traditional to contemporary.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/46499b3d-f71e-4bf3-b51d-735a47e47f2d)
- [Video: This poster announces the inaugural show of our 2025 festival, "Giridhar Nagar ki Meera," a production that combines puppetry and dance to tell the story of the great poet Meerabai.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ee05ac21-d770-4086-9a52-e412664dea6d)
- [Video: An announcement for a shadow puppet performance of "Veer Savarkar" at our upcoming festival. We strive to include a variety of puppetry styles, including shadow theatre from Maharashtra.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/469bfb32-e0c2-49a0-aa00-01fb11f331aa)
- [Video: A preview of "Taming of the Wild," a contemporary puppet show from West Bengal featured in our festival. This highlights our effort to showcase modern interpretations of the art form.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7a321e84-2e75-4076-905d-32139fac4e8f)
- ![The poster for our Dhaatu Navaratra Mahotsava 2023, a month-long celebration of dolls, stories, and art. This is our 28th year hosting this beloved doll exhibition, or 'Bombe Habba'.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7311c971-ea9f-4ab8-8a30-e1b149ef8f77)
- [Video: A video tour of the Dhaatu Navaratra Mahotsava, showcasing the intricate doll displays that depict scenes from mythology, history, and daily Indian life. All are welcome to experience this magical world.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ab1f762c-c496-425b-a123-242d3ca955fe)
- [Video: A glimpse of the beautiful and elaborate doll displays at our Navaratra Mahotsava. These arrangements, known as 'Golu' or 'Bombe Habba', are a cherished tradition during the Dasara festival.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e820d59f-ea1a-4f85-9522-96de741db299)
- [Video: The poster for our Dhaatu Puppet Santhe, a one-day puppet festival featuring shows, artist interactions, workshops, and storytelling. It's a wonderful opportunity for everyone to engage with the art of puppetry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/292dcd5b-4960-44f2-a198-3a9168045ff4)
- ![We were delighted to present our "Chudala" string puppet show as part of the 'Samanvay' festival, celebrating 50 years of the Chidambaram Academy of Performing Arts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2994e45c-554d-43b1-97c4-f971390d37d5)
- ![Another poster for our "Chudala" performance in Chennai, highlighting the traditional string puppets of Karnataka.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8f8555f7-a4c2-46e2-a8a2-ecd13d789e23)
- ![An invitation to "Poetry in Puppetry," a puppet musical we presented as part of the 'Navarasa: festival of emotions'. This show explored the poetic aspects of our various productions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/844a3b17-6449-4e64-9993-e2f07b790736)

### [Behind the Curtains: The Making of Magic](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/behind-the-curtains-the-making-of-magic)

- [Video: This video offers a sneak peek into our rehearsals for the "Chudala" puppet show. You can see our team preparing the puppets, including the intricate stringing of parrot puppets, and even the youngest members of our family getting involved.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/39cbb644-be87-485f-8152-fe4d3a816bfc)
- [Video: More behind-the-scenes footage from our "Chudala" rehearsals. It shows the dedication of our puppeteers and the collaborative effort required to bring a story to life through string puppetry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f90537fa-4635-4bc8-9de3-3769cbacffc0)
- [Video: Here, we are testing the mechanics of a 'Kolaata' or stick dance puppet arrangement for our Navaratra doll festival. This preparation is key to creating the dynamic and lively displays our visitors love.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e9116efc-8319-4dab-8e07-c715200cc7cc)
- ![A precious memory from 1976, showing me as a young student during a Bharatanatyam class with my Guru, Sri Kaushik. My journey in the performing arts began here, and this discipline is the foundation of all my work in puppetry and dance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/966ca060-cbb0-4edf-8d4b-e309321fff0e)

### [The Artist and Her Vision](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-performances-cultural-shows/the-artist-and-her-vision)

- [Video: It was a moment of immense gratitude and humility to be honored with the Padma Shri by the Government of India. This award is a recognition of the ancient art of puppetry and the work of countless artisans who keep this tradition alive.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/43f8d88f-7b66-48aa-ac5c-2a6b785cb8f6)
- ![Here I am speaking at an event for International Women's Day, sharing my thoughts on the hidden potential of women in Bharata. I believe art is a powerful medium for empowerment and inspiration.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/17573595-8912-4fc2-9550-26e02be33e91)
- ![Another shot from the same event, where I had the opportunity to engage in wonderful interactions and share my passion for our cultural heritage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2428903d-eedc-4d6d-a126-875fee2d609e)
- [Video: An personal invitation from me to our performance of "Chudala" in Chennai. I always enjoy connecting directly with our audience and sharing the story behind each production we stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5b479208-d6e6-4024-95b3-4d0e0524d4b0)
- [Video: A short video celebrating the homecoming of Ramlalla to Ayodhya. Our puppets are singing a traditional lullaby, a small offering from us at Dhaatu to mark this historic and joyous occasion for all of Bharata.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f3d0dd5e-143a-475c-ad66-d542eaeeb6a5)
- [Video: This video clip is from our patriotic puppet show about Vidurashwatha, also known as the Jallianwala Bagh of the South. It is our duty to use our art form to remember the sacrifices made for our freedom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ad3cea79-174d-46ba-83da-dd897ba0737e)

## Meet your expert

[Dhaatu](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere)

### My story

We Indians, we love telling stories, don’t we? At Dhaatu, puppetry is not just a job, it’s a calling. Sometimes, it’s tough, but I always find inspiration in legends like Rukmini Devi Arundale. Bharatanatyam, gardening, puppets - all tangled up in the spiral of life. When Padma Shri came, it was pure gratitude, a salute to Bharat. What we do is about keeping our stories alive, so the next gen can feel proud and connected.

### My work

- **What We Offer**: Traditional puppet shows - string, shadow, hand puppets, plus Ramayana puppet show, museum tours, and birthday events.
- **Cultural Workshops**: We run workshops for kids and adults, using epics and history to spark curiosity and joy.
- **Rooted in Tradition**: Our puppetry follows Dakshina Bharata sampradaya, with puppets inspired by Hoysala temple art.
- **Special Show Moments**: Once, we found a chariot in a village for our Vijayanagara Vaibhava performance. Magic happens when stories come alive.

## More services from Dhaatu

- [Puppetry & Cultural Arts Workshops](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/puppetry-cultural-arts-workshops) · ₹800-15K per participant per workshop (estimate)
- [Cultural Experiences & Venue Rental](https://mytribe.in/anupamahoskere/cultural-experiences-venue-rental) · ₹200-1,200 per person (estimate)

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## Book

To book Dhaatu, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Puppetry%20Performances%20%26%20Cultural%20Shows%20by%20Dhaatu.)