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Puppets dance known as "Kandhei" or "Sakhi
Nata", a rare and unusual type of stylised indigenous drama and dance
based on mythological stories, is being performed today in various parts
of Orissa.
The puppets are usually the representations of various characters and
animals of a particular drama. It is difficult to speak anything about its
origin but undoubtedly is an old art. The making of dolls with paintings,
dresses and ornaments is a typical folk art for the enjoyment of people of
all categories.
Together with puppets there evolved another art popularly known as the
expressive shadow plays, which has the added advantage of being able to
cater to large audiences. The puppetry of Orissa may be classified into
three categories, such as hand puppets, string puppets and rod puppets.