Puppeteers from Kolkata bring Russian folk tales alive in city

The storytellers, visiting the city as a part of an ongoing puppet festival, have two tales in their kitty: A Runaway Doughnut, an adaptation from a Russian folklore whose various versions are famous in UK, US and eastern Europe, and Bhabam, the Barber which has roots in India.

Speaking about what the audience can expect from the shows, 62-year-old Sen said, “When we talk about puppet shows, people assume that it’s meant only for kids, but the folk tales we present have a universal appeal. It does not matter if you are 8 or 80, you will have something to take away from these stories.”

“These tales present the journey of our lives. Take, for example, the case of Bhabam. The barber’s story showcases that truth cannot be concealed no matter how hard we try. Hence, irrespective of the age, everyone will find something to relate to,” said the puppet master.

To encourage a better involvement with the puppets, Sen and his team will also host a workshop on Saturday at noon, hours before the first show.

“I hope that while interacting with the puppets and by experiencing how they can be used to share stories, people will take up an interest in puppetry. It is not rocket science and one does not have to be a master in art and craft to be able to practise it,” added Sen.

Recalling the time when he took up the craft, the resident of Ballygunge in South Kolkata, said, “It was in 1973, I was still in school when I came across a set of puppets at my friend’s house. They were gathering dust in a showcase, but strangely, I felt drawn to them. Curious about my sudden interest, my friend handed over the puppets to me and that’s how my journey with them began.”

“My parents and my sister were supportive of my interest and even helped me understand and enact puppetry. Now, with my parents gone, my wife helps me put up shows and we want as many people to watch puppetry and develop an interest in it,” said the puppet master.