22nd Nov 2023
It was in 2019, prior to the Covid 19 pandemic that I had the amazing opportunity visit The Incredible State of India, Rajasthan with my grandfather who introduced me to the world of stories and puppetry to watch this art form ‘Kathputli’.
The festive filled roads of Ajmir where the Pushkar Ka Mela (The Pushkar Fair) was taking place was definitely a cultural tourism experience I would recommend to anyone who is keen on appreciating different cultural and traditions.
As I walked hand in hand with my grandfather, the vibrant colors of the fair dazzled my eyes. There were swirling skirts of dancers, lively music, and the sweet aroma of jalebi wafting through the air. We stopped at a small tent where a puppeteer was setting up a stage, and I watched in awe as he brought the wooden figures to life, weaving tales of brave kings and clever animals.
My grandfather, with his kind eyes twinkling, whispered stories of his own childhood visits to such fairs, where he too marveled at the puppeteers' magic. He told me how each puppet held a story of Rajasthan's rich history and how storytelling was a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Inspired by his words, I imagined myself one day crafting stories with my very own puppets, bringing joy to others just as these performers did.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the desert sands, we made our way back home. With a heart full of wonder and a spirit eager for more adventures, I knew that this trip to Rajasthan was only the beginning. The stories of Kathputli and the memories made with my grandfather would forever dance in my heart, sparking a lifetime love for the incredible art of storytelling.
