India, Jan. 26 -- A 96-year-old puppeteer from Karnataka's Koppal district, Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, for her remarkable contributions to the field of art. This recognition, announced on Friday, celebrates her dedication to Togalu Gombeyaata, a traditional form of shadow puppetry.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah lauded Shillekyathara as a worthy recipient, acknowledging her unparalleled commitment to puppetry over the past seven decades. "The nation takes immense pride in Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara being honored with the Padma Shri for 2025. Her dedication to the art form, which she has nurtured as a way of life while sho...