In Frames: Kathputli — pulling strings in Jaipur’s puppet colony

In a maze of narrow lanes in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur lies Kathputli Nagar, a place where stories are not written but carved, stitched, and brought to life with strings. Inside cramped homes stacked close together, men and women sit on the floor, shaping small wooden faces, painting bold eyes, and sewing vibrant costumes. Nearly 250 families live here, many of them have been preserving the craft for generations. What begins in their modest homes eventually finds its way to bustling markets, cultural fairs, and stages across the world.

These puppets, known as Kathputlis, are one of Rajasthan’s oldest folk art forms. The name comes from kath (wood) and putli (doll), reflecting their simple yet expressive construction. Historically, Kathputli performances were used by travelling performers to narrate tales of Rajput kings, brave warriors, folk heroes, and moral stories to village audiences. Long before modern forms of entertainment, Kathputlis were a powerful medium of communication.

The design of these Rajasthani puppets mirrors the State’s rich culture. Their colourful attire draw inspiration from royal courts and desert traditions, while their sharp features and exaggerated expressions add drama to every movement. Each puppet represents a character from everyday life or folklore, helping preserve the State’s social and cultural identity.

Puppet shows remain the soul of this tradition. Accompanied by folk music on the dholak and harmonium, puppeteers bring the Kathputlis to life with strings and rhythmic narration. The performances brim with humour, music, and satire, often reflecting social realities alongside legendary tales. From the homes of Kathputli Nagar to bigger stages, Kathputlis continue to carry Rajasthan’s voice across generations.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

A Kathputli performance in progress at the Hawa Mahal complex in Jaipur.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

An artisan carefully carves sharp features into the wooden face of a Kathputli puppet inside a home in Kathputli Nagar, Jaipur.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

With effortless ease, a woman paints the eyes and nose of a puppet in Kathputli Nagar.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

A sari is being cut to create costumes for the puppets.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

Outside a house in the area, a pair of fully finished puppets are kept side by side.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

At his home in Kathputli Nagar, an artisan ties strings to some Kathputli puppets.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

An artist sings during a Kathputli performance by a group of men inside the Hawa Mahal.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

People click photographs during the Kathputli performance in Hawa Mahal.

Photo:
Emmanual Yogini

Beside digital characters, some of these handmade dolls compete for attention in a busy street near the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur.