Reviving Ancient Art: The Story of Tholpavakoothu Artiste Ramachandra Pulavar
Ramachandra Pulavar, a renowned Tholpavakoothu (shadow puppetry) artiste, firmly believes that cinema traces its origins back to his centuries-old art form. He highlights the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy’s decision to adopt the official logo inspired by shadow puppetry for the prestigious International Film Festival of Kerala as evidence. At 68 years old, Pulavar’s passion for Tholpavakoothu continues to inspire.
Innovating and modernizing Tholpavakoothu to break free from traditional confines and extend its appeal beyond temple precincts, the Padma Shri awardee is thrilled about a new avenue to promote the art form. The documentary, “Nizhal Yathrikan,” centered on Pulavar’s life and work and directed by Saheer Ali, premiered to a select audience at Don Bosco, Palarivattom.
Reflecting on the impact of a past documentary, “Borrowed Fire,” which focused on his father, Krishnankutty Pulavar, a Tholpavakoothu luminary, Pulavar expresses confidence in the potential of “Nizhal Yathrikan” to raise awareness and broaden the reach of Tholpavakoothu.
Despite its popularity globally and outside Kerala, Pulavar laments that Tholpavakoothu is often typecast as children’s entertainment within the state. Presently, performances primarily occur over six months at 85 Devi temples, particularly in Palakkad, Thrissur, and Malappuram, with sparse attendance.
Collaborating with his family friend, Saheer Ali, Pulavar’s son, Rajeev, and Rahul, the Pulavar family has propelled Tholpavakoothu onto the international stage. Their efforts have seen performances in 48 countries, with a focus on narratives inspired by iconic figures and literary works, expanding the art form’s cultural footprint.
With a vision to popularize Tholpavakoothu further, Pulavar’s family has converted their ancestral home in Shoranur into a museum showcasing historical leather puppets, attracting visitors globally. Notably, Rahul is pursuing research on Tholpavakoothu at a prestigious university in the United States, underlining the family’s commitment to preserving and evolving this traditional art form.