Traditional Leather Shadow Puppetry of Kerala-Tolpava Koothu
The Tholpavakoothu, known as a shadow puppet theatre in the Malayalam language, is an ancient traditional art form that is still actively performed in the districts of Palakkad, Thrissur, and Malappuram in Kerala, India. It is a matter of satisfaction to note that this particular traditional art form continues to thrive and is not considered extinct, unlike in other regions of India where its performance is few, with only a few exceptions. Regrettably, it is evident that the traditional temple art in Kerala is facing the threat of extinction. This is mostly due to the limited number of families who possess the necessary expertise in this ancient art form and continue to perform it as a ritualistic and customary activity within the temple premises. I had the privilege of engaging in a personal interaction with Sri Ramachandra Pulavar, hailing from Shoranur. The individual in question is the offspring of Sri Krishnakutty Pulavar, who holds the distinction of being...