![]() In the backstage between a light source and the screen, the puppeteers usually insert flat figures. They lightly press them on the screen so that the shadows are sharp. If they are not pressed on the screen their shadows become hazy. Normally, the puppet figures in shadow theatre are made of leather. Of course, they can be made from any opaque material like cardboard but leather can be used many more times without damage. The leather is carefully stencilled so that the shadows suggest the puppets clothing, jewellery, and other accoutrements. Some figures have jointed limbs which, when manipulated, show the audience beautiful moving shadows. ![]() Fortunately, shadow theatre traditions still exist in varying styles in peninsular India. The examples can be set as in Orissa it is called Ravana Chhaya, in Andhra Pradesh this is Tolu Bommalata, in Tamil Nadu this is Tolu Bommalattam, in Kerala this is Tolpavakuttu, etc. Some other examples can be given as in Karnataka it is named as Togalu Gombeyata, and in Maharashtra it is named as Chamdyacha Bahulye or 'leather puppets'. The puppets of Orissa, Kerala, and Maharashtra cast shadows in black and white, and draw exclusively upon myths of Lord Rama for their stories. On the other hand the other three states throw spectacular multicoloured shadows. To make them coloured, the leather is first treated into translucency, and then different dyes are applied. These colour forms derive narrative material from the epic Ramayana and Mahabharata, as also other Puranic literature. ![]() All the styles have stock characters whereas many known for wit and humour. Music that is heavily dependent on local folk instrumentation plays a very important role. Traditionally, oil lamps with thick wicks provide the light source, which conveys colour shadows beautifully. Their lyricism melts in the fixed glare of gaslight or electric bulbs. Similarly, the vegetable dyes used for colouring have given way to chemicals, which have not proved as satisfying aesthetically. Shadow theatres are dying slowly because people prefer "modern entertainment" like movies and television. Governments provide financial incentive for their survival, but it is too meager. Besides, no art can thrive under doles. Unless society becomes genuinely interested in the continuation of these rare forms, they are destined to vanish sooner or later. |