<span style="color: #222222;">The 11th International Puppet Festival was kicked off at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh on Saturday. Punjab Governor and Administrator of Union Territory Chandigarh, Banwarilal Purohit, accompanied by Adviser to the Administrator Rajeev Verma and other senior officers inaugurated the show.<br />''<br />''Addressing the audience on this occasion, Governor highlighted the rich cultural heritage of puppet theatre in India, tracing its historical significance back to ancient times. He emphasized the enduring importance of puppetry as a medium for entertainment, education, and cultural preservation, noting its presence in various forms across different cultures and regions.</span><br />''The festival started with a mesmerizing performance by the Novosibirsk Regional Puppet Theatre from Russia, presenting the renowned puppet show "Petrushka."<br />''<br />''To cater to the diverse audience, the Department organized special morning shows for school students and evening shows open to the general public, ensuring accessibility for all enthusiasts of puppetry.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">The visitors will also have the opportunity to explore a Puppet Exhibition at Tagore Theatre from today to February 21st. The exhibition has featured live demonstrations of puppet making, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate craft behind these captivating creations.</span>