Kathputli is Rajasthan's traditional string-puppet theatre, performed for centuries by the Bhat community. Puppets of wood and cloth tell stories of kings like Amar Singh Rathore, with music and voices. In Udaipur you can see puppet shows at Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal and in the Dharohar show at Bagore Ki Haveli, and buy puppets in the old-city bazaars.
Key facts
- Kath = wood, putli = doll
- Performed traditionally by the Bhat community
- Classic story: Amar Singh Rathore of Nagaur
- See shows at Lok Kala Mandal and Bagore Ki Haveli
A tinkle of ghungroos, a whistle-like voice from a hidden puppeteer, and a wooden king rides into battle on a wooden horse.
What is kathputli?
Kath means wood and putli means doll. Kathputli is Rajasthan’s string-puppet theatre, traditionally performed by the Bhat community, who travelled from village to village. The puppeteer uses a boli, a reed whistle, to give the puppets their voices, while a drummer and singer tell the story.
The stories
The classic tale is of Amar Singh Rathore, the 17th-century warrior of Nagaur. Other acts show a snake charmer, a juggler, a horse rider, or a dancer whose head detaches.
How puppets are made
Heads are carved from mango wood, painted with big eyes and moustaches, and dressed in scraps of brocade and mirrorwork. Strings run from the head and hands to a wooden bar.
Where to see shows
- Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal — a puppet museum and regular shows.
- Dharohar at Bagore Ki Haveli — a puppet act in the evening programme.
- Shilpgram Utsav in December.
Buying puppets
Shops around Jagdish Temple and Hathi Pol sell puppets in all sizes. Check the stitching and the strings. A pair of puppets makes a great souvenir.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see a puppet show in Udaipur?
At Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, which has a puppet museum and regular shows, and in the Dharohar evening show at Bagore Ki Haveli.
Where can I buy puppets in Udaipur?
In the shops around Jagdish Temple, Hathi Pol and at Shilpgram.
How old is kathputli?
It's believed to be over a thousand years old, though exact origins are uncertain.
