NAFO, one of the prominent socio-cultural organizations in Kuwait has always been at the forefront in helping the community members stay connected to their Indian roots and also contributing towards the revival of the old dying art forms. As a part of the efforts to kindle interest in the younger generation and to do its bit in supporting the artists and various art forms, NAFO in collaboration with Lulu Exchange organised an evening dedicated to the traditional art of puppetry, “THOLPAVAKOOTH” commonly seen in the temples of Kerala.
The much-acclaimed, Padmashree Sri Ramachandra Pullavar and his group mesmerized the audience in the online session that started at 6 pm and went upto 8 pm, it marked the culmination of a fortnight of preparations.
Ms. Shivani Menon, the comperer for the event took the crowd through the program. The event commenced with the melodious rendition of the prayer by Master Nandakishor Girish and was followed by a message from the honorable Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Shri Sibi George.
The advisory board member, Shri Vijayakrishnan spoke about the origin, history, importance, and relevance of the much-revered art form “Tholpavakooth”.
Shri Ramachandra Pullavar, then enlightened the crowd on the different aspects of Tholpavakooth, and on how the art form and the artists have evolved with the changing times.
The artists treated the audience to the beautiful, mesmerizing depiction of the “KambaRamayana” through Tholpavakooth. The event also included an interactive session where all the members of the audience were encouraged to clear their doubts and share their feedback about the event.
The vote of thanks by Mr. Jayaraj Edathil marked the end of a beautiful evening.