The National Puppetry Festival began on December 19 at Hardwicke School, Mysuru. The event is organised by the Indian Institute of Educational Theatre (IIET), Mysuru, in partnership with Astikya Foundation. Senior theatre director and actor Indira Nair was the chief guest. Famous theatre personality Prasanna also attended. The festival features performances by top puppetry groups like Burdwan The Puppeteers from West Bengal, Talking Turtles Storytellers from Hyderabad, Rangaputhali Puppeteers and Sanchari Theatre from Bengaluru, Gagan and team from Bengaluru, and Pyooppatree from Kerala. The festival runs until December 21. Alongside shows, the event includes workshops and scholar interactions to promote and revive India's puppetry traditions. The workshop began on December 16 and ends on December 20. The festival will close with a valedictory ceremony on December 21 at 6 p.m., where R. Guru, philanthropist and industrialist from N. Ranga Rao and Sons, Mysuru, will be the guest of honour.