Who Is Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, The 96-Year-Old Puppeteer Honored With Padma Shri?

Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, a 96-year-old puppeteer from the Koppal district in Karnataka, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award for her unparalleled contributions to the ancient art of Togalu Gombeyaata, a traditional form of shadow puppetry. This distinguished recognition, one of India's highest civilian honors, was announced on January 26, 2025.

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Who Is Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara?

A Lifetime of Dedication to Art

Hailing from Moranala village in Koppal, Shillekyathara is a revered figure in the world of Togalu Gombeyaata. For over seven decades, she has dedicated her life to preserving and propagating this traditional art form, which is known for its vibrant storytelling through shadow puppets. The puppetry often narrates epic tales like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, captivating audiences with its intricate craftsmanship and vivid portrayal of cultural history.

Torchbearer of Karnataka's Cultural Heritage

Shillekyathara comes from a family that has been custodians of Togalu Gombeyaata for over a century. Their lineage has kept the ancient art form alive through generations, contributing to its preservation and ensuring that it remains an essential part of Karnataka's cultural fabric. Shillekyathara's work has extended beyond performance, as she has been actively involved in training younger generations to carry forward the legacy of this traditional art.

A Heartfelt Tribute from Karnataka's Chief Minister

Karnataka's Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, expressed immense pride and admiration for Shillekyathara, calling her a worthy recipient of the Padma Shri. He highlighted her tireless dedication to the preservation and promotion of Karnataka's rich cultural heritage. "Bhimavva's efforts to keep this art form alive, both in India and abroad, are truly inspiring. In an age where many rural arts are fading into obscurity, her devotion ensures that the art of puppetry continues to thrive," said Siddaramaiah.

He also recognized her as a role model for future generations, emphasizing that her work serves as a beacon for all those working to preserve traditional art forms in an ever-evolving world.

ಕೊಪ್ಪಳ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ತೊಗಲುಗೊಂಬೆಯಾಟ ಕಲಾವಿದೆ ಭೀಮವ್ವ ದೊಡ್ಡಬಾಳಪ್ಪ ಶಿಳ್ಳೇಕ್ಯಾತರ ಅವರು 2025ನೇ ಸಾಲಿನ ಪದ್ಮಶ್ರೀ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಗೆ ಭಾಜನರಾಗಿರುವುದು ಇಡೀ ನಾಡು ಹೆಮ್ಮೆಪಡುವಂತದ್ದು. ಸರಿಸುಮಾರು 7 ದಶಕಗಳ ಕಾಲ ತೊಗಲುಗೊಂಬೆಯಾಟವನ್ನೇ ಬದುಕಿನ ಹಾದಿಯಾಗಿಸಿಕೊಂಡು, ನೆಲದ ಕಲೆಯನ್ನು ದೇಶ - ವಿದೇಶಗಳಿಗೂ ಪರಿಚಯಿಸಿದ ಹಿರಿಯ ಜೀವ ಭೀಮವ್ವನವರು ಈ… pic.twitter.com/vylyre5875

— CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) January 25, 2025

A Symbol of Cultural Preservation

Shillekyathara's Padma Shri award is a testament to her lifetime of service to the arts and her exceptional dedication to the preservation of Togalu Gombeyaata. At the age of 96, she continues to be an active proponent of this rare art, ensuring that its rich storytelling tradition lives on.

Other Padma Awardees from Karnataka

Along with Shillekyathara, several other eminent individuals from Karnataka were honored in the 2025 Padma awards. Notable among them are Venkappa Ambaji Sugatekar, an 81-year-old Gondhal folk artist, Dr. Vijayalakshmi Deshmane, a pioneering oncologist, and Prashanth Prakash, an entrepreneur and philanthropist. Musician Dr. L Subramaniam was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, while veteran actor Anant Nag and journalist Dr. A Surya Prakash received the Padma Bhushan.

Shillekyathara's recognition is part of Karnataka's growing list of exceptional contributors to arts, culture, and other fields, making it a proud moment for the state.