Kathputli Nagar: A Dying Art Form in Jaipur's Heart

• Kathputli Nagar in Jaipur is home to approximately 250 families dedicated to the ancient art of puppetry.
• Chaman Lal, a puppeteer for 50 years, highlights the generational involvement in puppet making, passed down through families.
• The art of 'Kathputli' (wooden doll) has historical roots, mentioned in ancient texts like Panini's Ashtadhyayi and mythological beliefs.
• Puppet creation involves intricate carving, painting, and dressing, with artists traditionally traveling to narrate stories of kings and morals.
• Artists face declining income and lack of government support, leading to fears that the art form may disappear with the current generation.

Why It Matters: The traditional art of puppetry in Jaipur's Kathputli Nagar faces extinction due to financial struggles and lack of support.