Lakshmana Pulavar's Tholpavakoothu Institute Revitalizes Traditional Shadow Puppetry in Kerala

In Palakkad, Kerala, the Harisree Kannan Tholpavakoothu Kalakendram, under the guidance of Lakshmana Pulavar, is committed to the preservation of Tholpavakoothu, a traditional shadow puppetry art form. The institute focuses on training aspiring artists and showcases performances that narrate tales from the Ramayana using leather puppets. To combat the dwindling number of skilled practitioners, it conducts workshops, educational programs, and performances aimed at engaging the youth. Lakshmana Pulavar, with his extensive experience, plays a crucial role in documenting techniques and creating performance avenues while upholding traditional practices. The organization protects this intangible cultural heritage from modernization, ensuring the continuity of puppet-making skills, musical accompaniment, and performance traditions for both local and broader audiences.