There is a vibrant and rich culture about the origins of puppets, but conflicting theories still persist. It is hard to pinpoint the exact geneses of puppets and puppeteering due to many influences from several different cultures.

German Richard Pischel (1849-1908) an Indologist, believes they originate from India. The Sanskrit names “sutradhara” meaning he who holds the strings, and “sutraprota” meaning puppet (Union Internationle de La Marrionette - UNIMA).

Another theory suggested by researchers Hermann Reich (1868-1934) and Berthold Laufer (1874-1934), believe there is a dominant Greek culture influence (UNIMA).

Originally puppets were not used as entertainment pieces as they are in some performances seen today, however they were more commonly used for religious/ceremonious purposes, or as ancient idols.

Learn more information (click here) : https://wepa.unima.org/en/origins-of-the-puppet/

Know any other origin stories of puppets? Let us know!