Sinde Sriramulu, a master artisan from Nimmalakunta in Andhra Pradesh,

is a renowned expert in Tholu Bommalata (leather puppetry).

He specializes in crafting detailed leather shadow puppets and paintings,

often featuring characters from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Hailing from Nimmalakunta (a village in the Anantapur district renowned

as the epicentre of this craft), Sriramulu belongs to a lineage of

traditional artisans who have kept this vibrant, 600-year-old storytelling

art form alive through generations. He honed his intricate skills under

the guidance of his maternal uncle, the celebrated Shilp Guru D.C. Rao.Government-Certified "Master Craftsman" Status: This official

recognition by central and state handicraft boards grants him the

platform to train next-generation puppeteers and represent the state at

national exhibitions.

National Institute of Design (NID) Collaboration: Recognized by the

National Institute of Design (NID), he has participated in institutional

workshops aimed at modernizing traditional puppet designs into

commercial home decor items like stylized lampshades.

Crafts Council of Telangana & AP Collaborations: He is widely

recognized and frequently supported by regional entities like the Crafts

Council of Andhra Pradesh (CCAP) and the Crafts Council of Telangana

for his efforts in safeguarding the leather puppetry ecosystem.

Contemporary Design Collaborations: He has earned collaborative

recognition from independent contemporary art platforms, including

curated design initiatives like the Jewelry in Narratives project, which

merges traditional leather art with modern lifestyle products.

Key Details About Sinde Sriramulu's Career:

Art Form: He specializes in crafting detailed leather shadow puppets

and paintings, often featuring characters from the Ramayana and

Mahabharata.

Background: He comes from a traditional Chitrakara community family,

learning the art of shadow puppetry from his ancestors.

Skill Development: He has participated in several national-level

workshops, including those organized by the Crafts Council of Telangana

(CCT) and National Institute of Design (NID), which helped him innovate

and move towards contemporary, more detailed designs.

Contribution: He is credited with reviving the traditional art form and

mentoring others.

Lepakshi Handicrafts