Featured
This is a curated collection of our most cherished moments. It offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Dhaatu, from the intricate artistry of our puppet shows and the grandeur of our doll festivals to the passion that fuels our craft. These visuals represent the heart of what we do: bringing the stories of Bharat to life.
Dhaatu International Puppet Festival
This is our flagship annual event, a vibrant confluence of puppeteers from across India and the globe. We host a variety of performances, from traditional string and shadow puppetry to contemporary international acts, alongside academic conferences and a grand puppet parade that brings the art to the streets of Bengaluru.
Our Puppet Artistry
We specialize in various forms of traditional Indian puppetry, with a focus on the string puppets of Karnataka known as 'Sutrada Gombe Ata'. This gallery showcases the different styles we practice and teach, including string, rod, and shadow puppetry, each telling stories from epics and folklore in its own unique and captivating way.
Kalāmārga Nrityotsava: A Celebration of Dance
As part of our Navaratra Mahotsava, we host the Kalāmārga Nrityotsava, a solo thematic classical dance festival. This event features performances by renowned and upcoming Bharatanatyam artists, who present unique choreographies and stories. It underscores our belief in the deep connection between dance, storytelling, and our cultural traditions.
Learn With Us: Workshops & Community Events
We believe art is for everyone. Through our 'Puppet Santhe' (market), Children's Puppet Festival, and various workshops, we offer hands-on opportunities for people of all ages to engage with our traditions. Participants can learn to make their own puppets, enjoy interactive shows, and take guided tours of our puppet museum.
Our Founder & Accolades
Our work is driven by the passion and vision of our founder-director, Smt. Anupama Hoskere. A master puppeteer and cultural educator, her dedication has been recognized with numerous honours, including the prestigious Padma Shri. This gallery celebrates her journey and the accolades that inspire us to continue our mission.
Event Schedules & Announcements
Here you can find all our posters, schedules, and announcements for upcoming and past events. This section serves as a quick reference for event dates, timings, venues, and program details for our festivals, shows, and workshops.