And after that, guides to Europe, and then the whole world. Historically, Kuchipudi presented scenes the Hindu epics and mythological tales through dance-dramas that combined music, dance acting. The lyrics are mostly Telugu, Sanskrit is also used.
Shadow puppetry is another famous folk art.
Perforated leather puppets depicting mythological characters from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, are handled with bamboo sticks against a brilliant lamplit background. This is performed to the accompaniment of percussion instruments and lyrical narrations. Their repertoire of colourful dances and folk songs, an essential part of religious processions and harvest celebrations are another facet of the state s cultural traditions.