Tholu Bommalata:

The Art of Leather Shadow Puppetry

Andhra Pradesh, India

An Ancient Art, A Living Tradition

Tholu Bommalata (Tholu Bomma + Aata) means "play or dance of leather puppets" in Telugu. It is a traditional shadow theatre form, mainly practised in Andhra Pradesh and also found in parts of Telangana.

Through vibrant leather puppets, skilled artists narrate episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and regional folklore, accompanied by songs, dialogue and traditional music. This art form has been performed for centuries in villages, temples and festive gatherings, keeping mythology, more values and local stories alive across generations.

Early history of Indian shadow puppetry

1208 CE:

13th century:

Today:

By the medieval period, Tholu Bommalata had become an important cultural tradition, supported by royal patronage and temple communities.

Scholars cite a 13th-century inscription (1208 CE) that mentions shadow puppetry traditions in the region.

Inscriptional evidence

Tholu Bommalata is also mentioned in the 13th-century work Panditaradhya Charitra showing its presence in this period.

Panditaradhya Charitra

Tholu Bommalata continues to be practised by traditional artist families, while also evolving with contemporary themes and new creative possibilities.

A living tradition

How the puppets are made

Each Tholu Bommalata puppet is handmade using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Prepare the hide

Draw and cut the figure

Pierce and paint details

Join movable parts and add control rods

Timbs are connected with thread or small fasteners and bamboo rods are attached for movement during performances.

Fine patterns are pierced on the leather and coloured using natural and synthetic dyes.

Goat or sheep skin is cleaned, treated and prepared to make it durable and translucent.

Scholars cite a 13th-century and carefully cut into shape using traditional tools.

How the Shadow Theatre Comes Alive

During a performance, the leather puppets are held between a light source and a white cloth screen. As the puppets move, their colourful forms create vibrant shadows, bring the character to life.

The storytelling is accompanied by songs, narration, dialouge and traditional musical instruments such as the harmonium, mridangam and cymbals. Performances traditionally narrate episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharatasa and local folk tales, often held in villages, temples and cultural festivals.

From Performance to Contemporary Craft

While Tholu Bommalata is traditionally a performing art, its exquisite leather puppets and motifs have also inspired contemporary creations. Today, some artisans craft smaller puppets, wall hangings and decorative pieces for home decor and collectors, while keeping the traditional techniques alive.