Aakaar Puppet theatre was established in 1988 by Puran Bhat, of Kathputli colony, Shadipur Depot New Delhi. The group has performed in a number of schools, at the Literacy Mission, Ministry of Environment and at Pragati Maidan. Using traditional rod, string and shadow puppets, Aakaar puppet present themes which deal with social awareness such as AIDS, family planning and programs for mentally challenged children through traditional story telling. Aakaar has also presented programs for National School of Drama and on television.
Aakaar uses both traditional Rajasthani string and contemporary styles puppetry. “Caarvan” a major performance by Aakaar, highlights the traditional puppeteers present day conditions and their struggle to save their art form. Aakaar has performed and conducted workshops in India and abroad. It has performed and collaborated with many national and international puppeteers and puppet groups. He has worked under Dadi Pudumjee and has collaborated with French, German, Mexican puppet and dance groups. Puran Bhat is the recipient of the 2003 Sangeet Natak Akademi award for puppetry. |
