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Anupama Hoskere: A Life Dedicated to Indian Puppet Art

byDhaatu Puppet TheaterTours at Mandala Cultural Centre, BengaluruStarts from₹100 per student (min. 25 pax)View full gallery

From engineering to the stage, my journey is driven by the mission to preserve the knowledge systems of Bharat through the living art of puppetry.

This video, shared by the Ministry of Culture, highlights my work in puppetry and my recognition as a Padma Shri awardee. It shows me receiving the award from the Honorable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.

A screenshot of the official announcement from the President of India's office, conferring the Padma Shri in the field of Art. This award acknowledges the work done at Dhaatu to curate a unique collection of puppets from India and the world.

The moment I received the Padma Shri award from the Honorable President of India. This was a deeply moving experience that affirmed my lifelong commitment to the art of puppetry.

Receiving the Shivaratri Utsava Award at a wonderful gathering in Malleshwaram. It is always a privilege to be honored alongside other stalwart artists and achievers of Bengaluru.

A photograph from the Shivaratri Utsava award ceremony, capturing the moment of receiving the honor. Such events bring together the artistic community and celebrate our collective contributions.

Being felicitated at the Shivaratri Utsava organized by the Dr. Ashwathnarayana foundation. Community support and recognition are vital for the arts to thrive.

Presenting an award to a fellow artist at the Shivaratri Utsava. Celebrating the achievements of others is just as important as receiving honors oneself.

At a national conference at MNIT, Bhopal. I was happy to find that my presentation on the technical and contemporary perspectives of puppetry stirred a lot of interest among scientists and entrepreneurs.

A short video from the STREE 2024 National Conference & Expo in Bhopal, where I spoke on the role of women as conservators and propagators of Indian knowledge systems.

Speaking at the Dhaatu International Puppet Festival on the topic of 'Puppet Traditions and Innovations'. Sharing the stage with scholars and artists from around the world is always an enriching experience.

About Our Founder: A Leader in Art and Culture

Beyond the stage, I spend much of my time at national and international forums, ensuring the technical and cultural nuances of puppetry are preserved and understood by new generations. Whether it is a panel discussion on traditional knowledge systems or a hands-on workshop at our Bengaluru center, my focus remains on bridging the gap between ancient heritage and modern curiosity.

Padma Shri 2024 awardee in Art. — Approved by the tribe
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Dhaatu Puppet Theater

Tours at Mandala Cultural Centre, BengaluruStarts from ₹100 per student (min. 25 pax)

I am Anupama, an engineer who found my true calling in the strings of puppets. My family and I run Dhaatu in Bengaluru, where we turn ancient epics into living art through our shows, museum, and dedicated research.

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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.
Another shot from the same event, where I had the opportunity to engage in wonderful interactions and share my passion for our cultural heritage.

The Art and Vision of Anupama Hoskere

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DhaatuShows at Mandala Cultural Centre; Travels across Bengaluru and India
Receiving the 'Kalayogi Award' was a special moment, shared with esteemed artists and gurus. Such recognition encourages us to continue our work with even more dedication.4
Holding the 'Kalayogi Award 2022-23'. I am grateful to the Kalayogi Pratishtana for this honor and I dedicate it to my gurus, parents, and my entire Nrithyakuteera family.
A look at the official announcement for the Kalayogi award. It's an honor to be recognized among such talented and respected artists in the field of dance and music.
A group photograph with all the honored artists at the Kalayogi award ceremony. It was a wonderful evening celebrating art and the people who dedicate their lives to it.

Awards and Recognition for Bharatanatyam Excellence

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NrithyakuteeraTraining available at studios in Chamrajpet and JP Nagar
With my Guru, Pt. Rajendra Gangani, on Guru Poornima. To be able to learn from him in person is a blessing I am forever grateful for. His teachings are the light that guides my path.8
Humbled to receive the prestigious "Rajyothsava" award from the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FKCCI). Recognition from my home state is incredibly meaningful.
It was an honor to be bestowed with the title "Kala-PraPoorna" by the Shivapriya Institute and MS Natyakshetra. I am grateful for this encouragement of my work.

Artistic Recognition and Guru Parampara

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Sharat PrabhathStudio in Jayanagar; Available across India
"Yoga is the practice of quieting the mind." I stand by this core principle, which guides all our teachings and programs.21
I was deeply honored to receive the 'Yog Ratn Award' from the Nisha Joshi Yoga Academy in Indore. Such recognition fuels our mission to spread authentic yoga.
A group photo from the grand opening of VNYO Global Yoga Centre in Vietnam. It was a privilege to be part of this momentous occasion with leaders of the Vietnam yoga industry.
An event poster announcing my participation as a special guest at the Delhi Yog Sports Championship. We actively support events that promote yoga as a discipline and a sport.

Dr. Shivam Mishra’s Yoga Philosophy and Recognition

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SKM YogaAvailable online, across NCR, and at studios in Noida, Delhi & Dubai
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With my dear Guru, the legendary Kumudini Lakhia. I am forever indebted to her for the beautiful and inspiring choreographies she created for us.
Another cherished memory with our Guru Kumudini Lakhia, whose every lesson and interaction was an inspiration. Her art lives on through her work.
A treasured moment with my Guru, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padmasubrahmanyam, after my student's performance. When your Guru's Guru blesses your student, the circle of tradition feels complete.

Our Legacy: Awards and Guru Parampara

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Nirupama RajendraClasses online and at studio in Basavanagudi
The sacred tradition of lighting the lamp before a performance. Here, I am at the debut recital of my dear student Ambili Krishnan, a moment filled with blessings and hope.32
Another view of the lamp lighting ceremony for Ambili's Margam. This ritual sanctifies the stage and marks the beginning of a student's formal journey as a performer.
A candid moment of joy and pride with my student Ambili Krishnan after her successful debut performance.
The wonderful live orchestra that supported Ambili Krishnan's debut. A dancer is always supported by a team of talented musicians, and I am grateful for mine.

Bharatanatyam Student Recitals & Performances by Ambalam Foundation

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Indira KadambiBased in Jigani, Bengaluru; Travels across India for shows

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