Mr. D. Tirupalu is a master artisan specializing in traditional leather puppetry, a craft he has practiced and preserved since childhood. His work contributes to safeguarding and transmitting India’s traditional craft heritage.
Mr. D. Tirupalu is a distinguished master artisan specializing in traditional leather puppetry, which he has practiced since childhood. His skilled craftsmanship and deep knowledge help preserve this traditional art form, while passing its techniques and cultural heritage to future generations.
intricately designed leather figures project shadows onto a cloth screen. Traditionally made from deerskin, buffalo and ox skin are now common. The leather is washed, de-haired, dried, and outlined. Intricate perforations, dots, lines and holes are added before colouring.
Andhra Pradesh is a culturally rich state known for its vibrant traditions, heritage, and craftsmanship. Its historic temples, Buddhist monuments, classical arts, handloom textiles, traditional crafts, and festivals reflect centuries-old cultural practices, deeply rooted in its diverse regional communities.
Leather puppets are traditionally handcrafted, perforated, coloured figures used in shadow-puppet theatre. In Tholpavakoothu, they are manipulated behind a translucent cloth screen and illuminated by lamps, projecting animated shadows to narrate episodes from the Ramayana during temple rituals and cultural performances.
According to legend, Bhadrakali requested tholpavakoothu during her battle with the demon Darika. Dedicated to Bhadrakali, the ritual uses leather puppets to narrate the Ramayana. The tradition is believed to have originated in the ninth century AD.
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