Bommalattam

What it is

This practice is a type of puppetry that uses inanimate objects to create visual storytelling. The name comes from Tamil words meaning doll and dance. Puppeteers stand in a small, elevated space behind a cloth screen. They use rods and strings attached to wooden dolls to move them. Traditional lamps light the scene, casting shadows that the audience watches. The performance is usually accompanied by music and spoken narration.

How it is kept

The puppets are made of lightweight wood and dressed in crafted costumes with paper stuffings. They wear prominent jewellery so details remain visible in the shadows. Puppeteers manipulate the dolls using rings or rods held in their hands. They often narrate the story while moving the puppets, sometimes following classical dance patterns like Bharatanatyam. Bells worn by the performers sound in rhythm with the movements and background music played on instruments like cymbals and mridangam.

Origins and history

The exact origin of this art form is uncertain, but it has existed for many years in the region. It is typically passed down through families, with all members involved in making, maintaining, and performing with the puppets. This hereditary approach helps preserve the specific techniques and craftsmanship required. While Bommalattam focuses on shadow play, other variations like Pava Koothu exist, which use handheld glove puppets instead of marionettes.

Meaning and usage

The themes of the shows are drawn from Hindu scriptures, such as the Puranas and epics, as well as local folklore. Performances are common during village festivals and fairs. Beyond entertainment, the art serves spiritual purposes. It is used in rituals to ward off evil forces, prevent epidemics, and invoke rain to end droughts. These practices highlight the deep connection between the art form and community well-being.

How Bommalattam is kept

Puppeteers manipulate wooden doll marionettes using rods and strings behind a white screen. The scene is lit by traditional lamps, creating shadows for the audience. Performers wear bells and move in time with music from instruments like cymbals and harmonium. They often narrate the story while dancing the puppets, sometimes mirroring classical Bharatanatyam movements. Families maintain the craft together, crafting the dolls and preserving the performance style.

When and where

It is performed during village festivals, fairs, and specific rituals. There is no fixed calendar date mentioned for the general practice.

The tradition originates from Tamil Nadu, India. It is commonly performed in villages across the region.

What Bommalattam means

The art serves both entertainment and spiritual functions. It is used in rituals to protect communities from evil forces, prevent epidemics, and invoke rain. The stories reflect Hindu scriptures and local beliefs, connecting the audience to their cultural and religious heritage through shadow play.

Questions people ask about Bommalattam

See also

AlpanaA Bengali floor painting tradition using rice flour paste to mark festivals and rituals.PattachitraA cloth scroll painting tradition from eastern India featuring mythological stories and folk tales.PandavaniA folk singing tradition from central India that retells episodes of the Mahabharata epic through music and theatrical nBihu danceA folk dance from Assam that celebrates spring, fertility and the new year with energetic movement and music.

Good reading and sources

• Bommalattam on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-07.