TBI Blogs: #DelhiHeroes: Exploring Kathputli Colony in Delhi Where 3500 Artists Live & Perform

From magicians to snake charmers, from sculptors to artists, the Katputhli Colony in New Delhi is home to countless artists and art forms.

Did you know, that the world’s largest community of street performers exists in India? The Kathputli Colony in Delhi is home to more than 3,500 street performers. This magical secret even got special mention in Salman Rushdie’s 1981 book, ‘Midnight’s Children.’

Although the colony has faced immense pressure from land developers, it has come together to stand strong against all odds, and, thanks to the collective efforts of all involved, is working hard to save not just the colony, but the community as well as its different art forms.

In this #DelhiHeroes video, Puran Bhat talks about the magicians, snake charmers, jugglers and puppeteers that live with him at the Kathputli colony. The street performers of this fascinating neighbourhood are fighting against all odds, preserving their talent and their beautiful spirit, and continuing to contribute to Delhi’s vibrancy.

We urge you to visit the colony and learn more about the wonderful talent hidden in this Delhi neighbourhood. Go for a walk in these magical streets, interview the people, write about them, photograph them and spread the love that our city has to offer.

Watch other #DelhiHeroes in action here, and learn more about the “Delhi, I Love You” movement here.

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