Revival of a Classical Shadow Tradition
Hyderabad will witness a rare traditional storytelling performance this Ugadi with a live presentation of Tholu Bommalata, one of South India’s most intricate shadow puppetry traditions. The event titled “Aroma of Dakshin – Tholu Bommalata Performance” will bring the ancient art form to the stage through a live retelling of Sundarakanda from the Ramayana.
The programme is scheduled for Sunday, 15 March, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, at Aroma of Dakshin, Khajaguda Main Road, Hyderabad, and is open to the public with free entry.
A Heritage Art Form Rooted in Storytelling
Tholu Bommalata is a centuries-old storytelling tradition from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The name literally translates to “dance of leather puppets.” The art form uses hand-crafted translucent leather puppets, coloured with natural dyes, which are animated behind a lit screen to create dramatic shadow images.
Traditionally, puppeteers narrate episodes from Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, accompanied by music and dialogue. The puppets are often intricately carved and painted, making them both performing objects and works of traditional craft.
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Ugadi Performance of Sundarakanda
The upcoming performance focuses on Sundarakanda, one of the most celebrated chapters of the Ramayana that narrates Hanuman’s journey to Lanka in search of Sita. Through shadow, narration, and movement, the puppeteers recreate scenes of mythology using the distinctive leather puppets and illuminated screens.
Organisers say the event is designed to offer audiences a slower and more immersive experience of storytelling, recalling a time when narratives were shared through live performances rather than digital screens.
Cultural Collaboration Behind the Event
The programme is presented through a collaboration between cultural and community organisations working to promote heritage arts. The organisers include:
- Brass Lotus, a cultural initiative that curates heritage-based events
- Aroma of Dakshin, the venue hosting cultural programming in Hyderabad
- Tree Huggers Club, a community group that promotes cultural and environmental engagement
Such collaborations aim to create platforms where traditional artists can present their work to contemporary audiences.
Rare Opportunity for Urban Audiences
Traditional shadow puppetry performances have become increasingly rare in urban settings. Many of these art forms historically thrived in rural temple festivals and community gatherings but now struggle due to declining patronage.
Events like this attempt to reconnect city audiences with living traditions by presenting them in accessible spaces. According to the organisers, the Ugadi performance offers an opportunity for families, students, and cultural enthusiasts to experience a form of storytelling that blends craftsmanship, mythology, and theatre.
Event Highlights
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Tholu Bommalata Shadow Puppetry – Sundarakanda |
| Event Series | Aroma of Dakshin Cultural Programme |
| Date | Sunday, 15 March |
| Time | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Venue | Aroma of Dakshin, 1st Floor, Khajaguda Main Road, Hyderabad |
| Entry Fee | Free Entry |
| Featured Performance | Live Tholu Bommalata performance of Sundarakanda from the Ramayana |
| Organisers | Brass Lotus × Aroma of Dakshin × Tree Huggers Club |
| Official Website | https://brasslotus.in |
Takeaway
The Aroma of Dakshin Tholu Bommalata performance brings a centuries-old storytelling tradition back to a live audience during the Ugadi season. By presenting Sundarakanda through traditional leather shadow puppetry, the event highlights the enduring craftsmanship and narrative richness of South India’s folk theatre traditions. For Hyderabad’s cultural community, the evening offers a rare chance to witness an art form where mythology, craftsmanship, and performance come together under a single illuminated screen.
