Katputli dance is a traditional folk-dance form that originated in Rajasthan, India. It derives its name from “Katputli,” a Hindi word that means “puppet.” As the name suggests, this dance form involves dancers dressed in brightly colored, traditional Rajasthani costumes who use puppets and their own movements to tell stories.
The dance form is typically performed during festive occasions such as weddings and cultural festivals and is a popular tourist attraction. Katputli dance is characterized by rapid and vigorous movements, accompanied by typical Rajasthani folk music that features various musical instruments such as the dholak, the harmonium, and the sarangi.
The dancers who perform Katputli dance are skilled artists who have been trained in this particular style of dance from a young age. They use intricate hand movements, footwork, and body language to synchronize their dance movements with the music and the puppetry.
The costumes that the dancers wear during the performance are an important part of this dance form. They are made of vibrant colors, adorned with mirrors and embroidery, and are accessorized by long flowing scarves and bangles. The dancers wear masks or paint their faces to create different characters during the performance.
Katputli dance is a beautiful and colorful expression of the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the traditional dance forms of India.
Usage –
The fame and distinguished Rajasthan puppets are known all-round the year as they are popular for souvenirs.
The craft is used for making portraits.
Shivaji maharaj, Majarana pratap and magaraja jai Singh
Four hangings like camel, elephant, toys like kacchi ghodi.
Create awareness about social evils like AIDS, Polio, child marriages and other social evils.
Significance –
This dance form has derived from Sanskrit words like puttika or puttalika. Artisans who are involved in making puppets belonging to nomadic community known as Putli Bhatt or Bhat
One of oldest form of entertainment
Tackle problems through – Dowry system, women empowerment, illiteracy, poverty etc.
Spread information about health, education and human right too.
Narration and music play an important role
For foreigners, puppets are painted white whereas they are painted yellow.
No leg movements.
Garment resemble like of Rajasthani attire.
Made of bamboo wood and stuffed with cotton.
Puppets have limited vocabulary and movement plays an important part.
Challenges –
- Traditional craft is losing its charm or getting disappeared.
- Due to failing demand, poor income and growing families led to the craftsmen taking up alternate professions like working as tourist guides etc
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