In Praise of Shadows

A journey into the enchanting world of leather puppetry, an ancient and living tradition practiced in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. Rooted in oral traditions, these puppets narrate histories and mythical stories, breathing life into tales of yore.


The Play of Light and Shadow
At the heart of this captivating realm lay the humble oil lamp, a silent protagonist that bestowed vibrant hues upon the shadows, magically transforming two-dimensional puppets into three-dimensional entities. The exhibition aimed to capture this metamorphosis, preserving the essence of the puppets while imbuing them with a lifelike quality, casting a spell on viewers as they came to life in the luminous ambiance.

A Myriad of Characters
These leather puppets depicted a diverse array of characters – farmers, soldiers, kings, queens, and village folk. Ingeniously designed diffusers emitted a gentle, enchanting radiance, creating a simple yet immersive atmosphere. The puppets seamlessly transitioned between their three states, captivating spectators with their masterful use of color and form.

In one corner, weathered puppets bore the scars of countless performances, their bottoms charred from years of storytelling. When the curtains parted, a mesmerizing interplay of light ensued. Meticulously crafted screens allowed light to filter through, blurring the boundaries between the puppetry performance and the audience, submerging visitors in a captivating spectacle.

Venturing outside, visitors stumbled upon a hidden leather tiger nestled among the lush campus flora, its intricately worked hide draped over a concave frame. In yet another room, the tiger appeared to descend from a tree, while its prey gazed upon a mysterious, circular shadow. The exhibition was a journey through time, where tradition and artistry intertwined, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of South India.



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