ಸೂತ್ರದ ಗೊಂಬೆಯಾಟ । String puppets of Karnataka

The string puppets of Karnataka are called Gombeyata. They are styled and designed like the characters of Yakshagana, the traditional theatre form of the region. The Gombeyata puppet figures are highly stylized and have joints at the legs, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. These puppets are manipulated by five to seven strings tied to a prop. Some of the more complicated movements of the puppet are manipulated by two to three puppeteers at a time. Episodes enacted in Gombeyaಅta are usually based on Prasangas of the Yakshagana plays. The music that accompanies is dramatic and beautifully blends folk and classical elements.