Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara At 96, Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara is more than just a puppeteer; she’s the heartbeat of Karnataka’s centuries-old tradition of Togalu Gombeyaata. Growing up in a small village in Karnataka, Bhimavva ji was introduced to the art of shadow puppetry at a young age. With no formal training, she learned the intricate craft from her elders and became a master at creating leather puppets that brought the stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata to life. For over 70 years, Bhimavva ji has dedicated her life to performing and preserving this ancient art, taking it beyond Indian borders and performing in more than 12 countries. Her shows, crafted with love and precision, serve as a connection to our history, culture, and mythology. Her devotion to preserving this art form despite the changing world around her has earned her the well-deserved Padma Shri — a recognition of her tireless work in keeping the spirit of Togalu Gombeyaata alive for fut...