Documentary showcasing legendary shadow puppetry artiste to expand reach of art form
Ramachandra Pulavar, a renowned Tholpavakoothu artiste, believes that cinema has roots in his ancient art form. A new documentary titled Nizhal Yathrikan, directed by Saheer Ali, aims to promote this traditional shadow puppetry and its cultural significance. The Pulavar family has played a pivotal role in modernizing and globalizing Tholpavakoothu, which is now performed in various countries and has a dedicated museum in Shoranur.
- ▪Ramachandra Pulavar is a legendary Tholpavakoothu artiste who believes cinema evolved from his art form.
- ▪The documentary Nizhal Yathrikan premiered recently and aims to popularize Tholpavakoothu.
- ▪The Pulavar family has staged shows in 48 countries and is working with Kerala Tourism to enhance the art form's reach.
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| Original publisher | The Hindu — Top |
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| Publication time | Wed, 27 May 2026 12:18:25 +0530 |
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Ramachandra Pulavar, legendary Tholpavakoothu (shadow puppetry) artiste, is convinced that cinema evolved from his art form that dates back centuries. He cites the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy’s choice of the official logo, influenced by shadow puppetry, for its premier event, the International Film Festival of Kerala, to drive home his point. At 68, the master puppeteer’s enthusiasm for his art form remains infectious.Having innovated and improvised Tholpavakoothu, to break its ritualistic shackles and expand its reach beyond the temple premises, the Padma Shri award winner is ecstatic about receiving another tool to further popularise the art form. A documentary, Nizhal Yathrikan, based on Mr.
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