Guwahati: In a powerful convergence of tradition and advocacy, Dr.Anamika Ray Memorial Trust (ARMT) Guwahati, in collaboration with the North East Diocesan Social Service Society (NEDSSS) and SagarikaPutala Theatre, successfully conducted a weeklong series of Putala Naach performances under the Suraksha Project from July 25 to July 30. These performances were staged across twenty locations within the Sarupani and Sisupani Gaon Panchayat areas in Golaghat district.
The initiative harnessed the compelling art of traditional string puppetry to address the urgent issue of child trafficking, while promoting community dialogue and awareness through storytelling rooted in local cultural idioms. Over the course of six days, interactive puppet shows captivated audiences - especially children -with narratives designed to foster understanding of trafficking risks and empower them with self-protection strategies. Almost every performance drew an audience of approximately 70 - 80 participants, reflecting strong community interest and engagement. “This performance was deeply impactful,” said secretary of District Legal Services Authority Nilakshi Lahkar. “I am confident that its message will reach the target audience with clarity and resonance. The Suraksha Project champions culturally grounded and innovative interventions to engage vulnerable communities in meaningful discourse. Puppetry, with its unique blend of visual art and narrative expression, proved to be a powerful medium to spark emotional and intellectual resonance among rural audiences. “Today’s performance struck at the heart of an essential issue,” remarked Dhirendra Choudhury Senior Project Officer of CRS. “We are optimistic that this initiative will spark a meaningful and lasting change.”
The final performance was held on July 30 at the DC Court premises in Golaghat, coinciding with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The event was graced by Nilakshi Lahkar - Secretary District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Dudu Dutta – Distict Social Welfare Officer, Parineeta Hazarika – District Child Protection Officer, Senior Project Officer CRS Dhirendra Choudhary, John Das Anti Human Trafficking Unit Nodal Officer, NEDSSS staff of Golaghat, and field animators underscoring the project’s collaborative spirit and commitment to advocacy.
“Watching the audience’s response filled me with hope,” said Parinita Hazarika, District Child Protection Officer. “This initiative carries the potential to spark real, positive change in the community.” Speaking on the impact, Dr.Moushumi Bhattacharjee, Project Lead, shared, “By integrating puppetry into the Suraksha Project, we aim to bridge the gap between tradition and education, offering an engaging, culturally rooted, and impactful approach to social awareness.”
This initiative not only revived the rich legacy of Putala Naach but also reaffirmed its relevance in addressing contemporary social challenges. It stands as a testament to how traditional art can transform into a vehicle for education, empowerment, and change, stated a press release.
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