Description
This is a tour of Kathputli Colony (Puppeteer's Colony) which is not on the standard tourist trail. What makes visiting the colony a special trip, are the captivating residents. Indeed, for all its charm, Kathputli Colony is in for a huge change, as government plans are in the pipeline to tear down the dwellings and move the residents into government blocks, which are yet to be constructed. But before then, should you find the time to visit, you may be able to see a knife-swallower perfecting his skill or a magician practicing his tricks.
The slum is home to hundreds of performers, many of who originated from Rajasthan in the 60s. Kathputli Colony, taking its name from the puppet, for which Rajasthan is famous, is inhabited with puppeteers, musicians, animal trainers, fire-breathers, craftspeople, knife-swallowers and regular pranksters. Children follow you around, showing the tricks they have been taught by their parents.
The narrow dirt track which leads into the colony, turns off a busy road, packed with rickshaws honking noisily and speeding rickety buses. On most days, a trickle of drummers and performers in Rajasthani garb with tinsel trimmings, amble to and from the colony, directing you to the entrance.
Kathputli Colony is like most Delhi slums with its cramped quarters and depleted living conditions. But the theatrics of its inhabitants, young and old, colourful homes and props and puppets which seem to be as much a part of the house, as say, a cooking pot, hint at something more.
This is a real experience!
