Bangladeshi Popular Puppeteers :

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Here are some of the most notable puppeteers and puppet-related organizations from Bangladesh, who have contributed significantly to the traditional and modern forms of puppetry in the country:

 

 Top Bangladeshi Puppeteers and Puppet Organizations (Detailed Overview)

 

1. Mustafa Monwar

·       Known as: The Father of Modern Puppetry in Bangladesh

·       Born: 1935

·       Contribution:

o   Introduced puppetry into mainstream culture, education, and television.

o   Created "Parul", a famous puppet character.

o   Used puppetry to promote social messages and folk culture.

o   Played a major role in post-war (1971) relief programs, using puppetry to uplift children affected by the Liberation War.

·       Legacy: Founded Bangladesh Television's puppet programs and influenced countless young artists.

 

2. Lubna Marium

·       Known for: Integrating dance, storytelling, and puppetry

·       Contribution:

o   Founder of Shadhona – A Center for Advancement of South Asian Culture

o   Promotes puppetry as part of Bangladesh’s intangible cultural heritage.

o   Her organization supports local puppeteers and traditional artists with performance platforms and training.

 

3. Aranyak Natyadal (Theatre Group)

·       Key Person: Mamunur Rashid

·       Contribution:

o   While mainly a theatre group, Aranyak has used puppets in political and social street theatre.

o   They help preserve folk performance traditions like Putul Nach (puppet dance) in rural areas.

 

4. Dhaka Puppet Theatre

·       Founded by: Students of fine arts and theatre

·       Contribution:

o   Modern puppet troupe combining visual arts, music, and puppetry.

o   Focus on children's education and awareness.

o   Participate in national and international puppet festivals.

 

5. Folk Puppet Artists in Rural Areas

Especially in regions like:

·       Kushtia, Jessore, and Rajshahi

·       Art forms include:

o   Putul Nach (Traditional rod puppetry)

o   Shadow Puppets (locally called “Chhaya Natok”)

These folk puppeteers perform at fairs, religious festivals, and village gatherings, telling folk tales, religious epics, or addressing social issues.

 

 Awards and Recognition

·       Mustafa Monwar received numerous honors, including:

o   Ekushey Padak

o   Bangla Academy Literary Award

o   International acclaim for promoting cultural arts

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