Keelubommalatta is a string puppet dance native to
Andhra Pradesh. The word ‘keelu’ means string and ‘bommalatta’ means doll’s dance.
These puppets are generally made of wood. Sometimes even stuffed cloth is used in the making. The shoulders and hips are made separately. These puppets usually do not contain any legs. Only the face, palms and feet are given color using vegetable dyes.
These puppets are controlled by strings tied to a ring placed over the puppeteer’s head. Some puppets are controlled by a two head-strings attached to a single triangular control. While giving movement to the puppets, the puppeteer produces a variety of loud noises. The puppeteers remain hidden behind a curtain of about three to four feet height. The puppets are moved in the front of the curtain. Dialogues and music are provided during the performance.
