GUWAHATI: Of many things that money can't buy is Gurumayum Jadu Sharma's passion for puppetry.
Despite knowing well that puppetry does not fetch big money these days, the founder of Moppet Decoration and Cultural Centre, Manipur, the only puppetry centre in the state, has devoted his life to the art form for over five decades. Further, he has inculcated his son, Basanta Sharma, with the tricks of strings in a bid to pass on the tradition of puppetry to generations to come.
"Puppetry is a tradition. We have virtually survived on the art form for years together. We would love to see that our children learn it as well," says Basanta, who hopes that the dismal scenario will change sooner or later. "It's very difficult to carry on the tradition with almost no financial support from the government. But I do not want to see the art form dying," adds Junior Sharma.
There are about 20 puppeteers performing in various places across Manipur under the guidance of Gurumayum. The veteran artiste feels puppetry can be a very powerful tool of communication, but what deters them from pursuing the art form is lack of funds. "Puppetry is a very powerful medium of communication.
Normally, we perform tales based on religion. I think it's very important if we start focusing on social issues," says Basanta, who has not only performed across the country but has also a number of awards to his credit. "Puppetry is very popular among children. It can make them aware about several aspects of life. Be it from saying no to bad habits or oppose evil practices in society, puppetry can be very effective," he adds.
Despite their will to embark on "meaningful projects", puppeteers cannot pursue their dream for want of funds. "It's a very expensive art from. From making the puppets to organize shows, we have to finance everything," Basanta rues. Gurumayum and Basanta were in the city to take part in the ongoing Putul Yatra, the biggest puppetry festival in the country organized by Sangeet Natak Akademi which began at the Shankardeva Kalashetra on May 22.