A shadow puppetry artist, K. Viswanatha, carries on a 13-generation family legacy of this traditional art form. He advocates its preservation and transmission to younger generations, believing it should be safeguarded and nurtured for the future.

K. Viswanatha Pulavar is a Master of Tholpavakoothu, a form of shadow puppetry.

Originally from Koonathara, Kerala, Viswanatha traces his lineage in this art back thirteen generations. His performances predominantly take place at the Bhadrakali temple. He notes a decline in the number of temples hosting this art, from over 200 in the 1970s to 107 today.

He explains that temple celebrations, spanning January to May, offer him opportunities to showcase his craft. These events vary in duration, ranging from seven to sixty-four days. Viswanatha's performances typically run from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The repertoire has shifted from Sanskrit Ramayana to Kamban Ramayana. They perform in the puppet theatre opposite the Bhadrakali temple, measuring 42 feet long, 14 feet wide, and 7 feet high.

Viswanatha commenced his training when he was six years old, rising at 4 a.m. and reciting shlokas assigned by his father. Over the years, he has memorised over three thousand shlokas. After seven years of learning, he began accompanying his father to temple performances. He shares that attaining the title of 'Pulvar' typically takes thirty years in this field.

Viswanatha also notes a decline in the audience for puppet shows, expressing concern over the diminishing interest, as thousands once attended these performances.

Aside from his art, he engages in agriculture and serves as a Branch Postmaster for the rest six months of the year.

When asked about his role models, he says he regards his father as his primary inspiration, both for teaching him the craft and for providing unwavering support.

Encouraging the youth to embrace this art form, he believes in nurturing its legacy.