Abstract

Efforts by individuals, groups, and government agencies and departments entrusted with conserving folk art forms have resulted in the revival of nearly extinct folk-art forms like Pavakathakali Puppetry. The Government of India's Department of Culture and the national level Sangeet Natak Akademi (Academy of Performing Arts) both contributed to the art form's revival. With the help of a government grant, six performers were able to learn the art of puppetry, and the group now features both traditional and trained puppeteers. Puppetry in this form combines the use of both glove and string puppets. In this article, we'll explore how welcoming puppeteers from all cultural backgrounds has revived and regenerated a centuries-old art form.

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