Ahmedabad: Mahipat Kavi, the celebrated puppeteer who marked his 96th birthday on March 30, passed away less than a month later, leaving the city in mourning. The master puppeteer was widely recognized for elevating the art of puppetry, giving it identity and dignity.
Homage from the Fraternity
The literary and performing arts community in Ahmedabad paid heartfelt tributes to Kavi, who was honored with the Padma Shri three years ago for his outstanding contribution to the arts.
Family and Legacy
Family members confirmed that Kavi passed away early on Saturday. He had no major health issues but had reduced his food intake and activities in recent days. His wife Leela, also a puppeteer, died about 12 years ago. He is survived by his three children, all actively involved in puppetry.
Manvita Baradi, an urban planner and theatre personality, remarked on Kavi's immense contribution. "With my father Hasmukh Baradi, he used puppetry for social communication and spreading social messages in the early days of television," she said.
