Epic Tales on a String

A sweet fragrance of lemongrass Afills the air, as dusk settles over the open-air courtyard of Coco Shambhala, near Bhogwe beach in Parule village in Maharashtra.

- VEIDEHI GITE

The rhythmic thump of the tabla sets the stage for an unconventional performance. With a dramatic flourish, the curtain rises, not to reveal human actors, but a vibrant cast of string puppets. Leading the ensemble is none other than Lord Ganesha, flanked by his two wives: Riddhi, symbolising prosperity, and Siddhi, representing intellect and spiritual power. Chetan Gangavane (35), the puppeteer, alongside a small entourage of four to five people, introduces the opening act, explaining the tradition of every Chitra Katha performance beginning with a Ganesh Vandana. His brother, Eknath Gangavane (37), provides the musical accompaniment to the narration.