Leather Puppetry, also known as Tholu Bommalata in Andhra Pradesh and parts of Telangana and Karnataka, is one of the oldest performing folk arts of India. It is a traditional form of shadow puppetry where beautifully crafted figures made from translucent leather are used to narrate stories from epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.
The puppets are hand-painted using natural dyes and perforated with intricate designs, which allow light to pass through, creating a magical play of colors and shadows on the screen. When illuminated by an oil lamp or modern lighting, these puppets come alive with vibrant hues, making the storytelling both dramatic and enchanting.
This art form is believed to date back to the 3rd century BCE, flourishing under the patronage of rulers and temple traditions. Each puppet is carefully crafted from goat or deer leather, treated and processed to achieve translucency. Artisans then decorate them with detailed patterns, rich colors, and ornamental
motifs, often reflecting regional styles.
Apart from entertainment, Leather Puppetry served as a medium of education, moral guidance, and spiritual connection for village communities. The performances were traditionally accompanied by live music, folk instruments, and narration in local dialects, creating a festive atmosphere.
Recognized for its cultural significance, Andhra Pradesh Leather Puppetry has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, safeguarding its authenticity and heritage. Today, it continues to survive through artisan families who preserve this age-old craft while also adapting it into lampshades, wall hangings, and decorative items to suit contemporary tastes.
| Art Work | Leather Puppetry Artwork |
| Period of Practice | 3 th Centuary |
| Artist Name | Shiva |
| Colour | Multicolor |
| Dimensions (H * W * L) | 9 in5 in3 in |
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| GI Tagged Info | Application No. 107 |
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| Country Of Origin | India |
| Region | Anantapur |
| Weight | 219 g |
| Volume |
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