Ahmedabad: Ramesh Rawal is a puppeteer from Ahmedabad, whose story unfolds like a dramatic film. He has devoted his entire life to the art of puppetry. Once enjoyed as a form of entertainment, puppet shows have lost its significance in today’s world. Ramesh Rawal shares that he performs in extra shows just to keep the art alive. 

Ramesh Rawal’s background

Ramesh Rawal shares that he has been involved with the making of puppets for more than 40 years. He was taught the art form by his teacher Ranaji Rawat. He sustains himself through this craft and aspires to extend its legacy to further generations. He is an accomplished artist who has performed in shows in Japan featuring Indian folk tales. Several puppet theatres are still thriving in countries like Iran, China, and Russia. However, in India, this art form is still limited to Rajasthan and Gujarat. 

Organizing workshops

Ramesh Rawal conducts workshops in universities and schools where he teaches students about the art form. He has also worked in several academies through which he earned money. His international shows have established him as a renowned puppet artist. Ramesh believes that India needs to establish puppet theatres and academies to revive this art form. He adds that using his personal savings of Rs 3 to 4 lakh, he made puppets himself to spread his love for the art. 

Financial difficulties

Ramesh Rawal has encountered several financial hardships in the pursuit of advancing puppetry in India. In a world where people have lost their enthusiasm for this art form, Ramesh expresses a deep commitment, stating that he is married to this art. The number of shows and events involving puppetry have significantly reduced over the years, but he continues to perform in shows in local fairs. He sells his puppets at clubs, hotels, and events to familiarise more people with this traditional craft. 

Preserving an art form

Presenting stories through puppets was a common source of entertainment decades ago. Ramesh Rawal wishes to keep this form of storytelling alive through his performances. Social media has taken precedence over the art of puppetry, resulting in a decline in puppet shows. Despite all the challenges, he has not lost his will and hopes to carry the art forward.