Chadar badar puppetry, Santhal puppetry

The video is a presentation on the art of Santhal puppetry, the Chadar Badar. This ancient art form is practised by the Santhals, one of the largest tribal communities of India mainly found in the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar and Odisha. The Santhals are known for their colourful fairs and festivals. The Chadar Badar puppetry is a unique cultural heritage of the Santhals. The miniature puppets are carved out of wood by Santhal craftsmen and their movements are guided by a wonderful lever mechanism. The limbs of the puppets are attached to sticks which are attached to the main cord which is manoeuvred by the puppet master. These puppets are set on a portable stage along with the props. The total height of the stage with the canopy is around six feet. The Chadar Badar consists of two main structures, the base or dhera and the revolving stage called charkha.