Maharashtra Traditional String Puppetry

 

Celebrating Padmashri Parshuram Gangavane and the Thakar Adivasi Kala Aangan Museum & Art Gallery

Nestled in the culturally rich village of Pinguli in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, the Thakar Adivasi Kala Aangan Museum & Art Gallery stands as a vibrant testimony to India’s living heritage. At the heart of this cultural renaissance is Padmashri Parshuram Gangavane, a master artist, storyteller, and guardian of the fading folk traditions of the Konkan region.

Padmashri Parshuram Gangavane: The Torchbearer of Tradition

Parshuram Gangavane, fondly known as the “Guardian of Chitrakathi,” has dedicated his life to reviving and preserving the ancient art forms of the Thakar tribal community. In 2021, his lifelong contribution to Indian folk arts was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award.

For over four decades, Gangavane has been passionately working to keep alive the Chitrakathi art, a unique storytelling tradition using hand-painted scrolls, wooden puppetry, and folk theatre. Through his efforts, many endangered art forms such as Dashavatara shadow puppetry, Lokrang, and Bhajan Mandalis have found new life.

Thakar Adivasi Kala Aangan: A Cultural Treasure

Founded by Parshuram Gangavane, the Thakar Adivasi Kala Aangan Museum & Art Gallery is more than just a museum—it's a living cultural space where visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions of the Thakar tribal community. The museum showcases:

• Chitrakathi Scroll Paintings: Rare hand-painted narrative art used for traditional storytelling.

• Leather Shadow Puppets: Exquisite puppets used in ancient shadow theatre performances.

• Folk Masks and Ritual Objects: Symbolizing the spiritual and cultural practices of the region.

• Handcrafted Souvenirs: A chance to take home a piece of Konkan’s rich artistry.

The museum also organizes live performances, puppet shows, workshops, and art demonstrations, creating an interactive environment for both tourists and art lovers.

Preserving a Legacy

The work of Parshuram Gangavane and his family goes beyond preservation—it’s about passing on stories, values, and the artistic soul of the Konkan to future generations. The Thakar Adivasi Kala Aangan has become a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the power of community-driven cultural preservation.

Visitors to the museum leave not only with beautiful memories but also with a deeper appreciation for India’s tribal heritage and the role of artists like Gangavane in keeping these traditions alive.