Published on 26 Oct 2025
Indian puppetry, like many traditional art forms, faces several challenges and threats that jeopardize its survival and continuity. Some of the significant threats faced by Indian puppetry include:
Modernization and Technology: The rise of digital entertainment platforms and technology has led to reduced interest in traditional puppetry performances among younger audiences.
Example: OTT Platform s
Lack of Government Support: Limited financial resources and inadequate infrastructural support from the government hinder the growth and preservation of puppetry as an art form.
Example: Lack of support to Pavakoothu
Changing Social Dynamics: As traditional community gatherings and rituals evolve, the significance of puppetry in these contexts diminishes, impacting the transmission of the art form to new generations.
Economic Challenges: Many puppeteers struggle to sustain a livelihood solely through puppetry, leading some to abandon the art form in search of more economically viable options.
Example: Lack of Financial support to Pavakoothu
Limited Educational Opportunities: The absence of formal training and educational programs for puppeteers makes it difficult to pass on traditional knowledge and skills to younger practitioners.
Globalization and Homogenization: With increasing globalization, there is a risk of traditional puppetry losing its distinct identity and being overshadowed by more mainstream and homogenized cultural expressions.
Example: Globalization give boost to television and films
Loss of Traditional Knowledge: Some traditional puppetry techniques and stories are at risk of being lost forever due to the passing of elder puppeteers and a lack of written documentation.
Decline in Audience Engagement: Traditional puppetry faces challenges in attracting and retaining contemporary audiences who are more accustomed to fast-paced digital media.
Example: OTT Platform and Television was reduced the Audience Engagement
Urbanization and Migration: As rural communities migrate to urban areas, puppeteers often find themselves disconnected from their traditional audiences and support networks
Example: Puppetry focused on rural area, especially temple related architecture
Environmental Impact: The use of natural materials in puppet-making might be affected by environmental concerns and changes in material availability.
History & Culture
Threat faced by the Indian puppetry
string puppetry
rod puppetry
glove puppetry
shadow puppetry
Pavakoothu
Globalization and Homogenization
General Studies Paper 1
Indian Heritage and Culture
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