Music and Time Annotation << Back Chhaya natak, or South Asian Shadow Theater in Aspect Synthesis of Arts T.V. Kartashova, V.D. Kartashov The article discusses chhaya natak – the South Asian shadow theater, the performances of which are played using special flat leather dolls behind an illuminated white screen. Particular attention is paid to the history of the theater, associated with temple tradition and has not lost its sacred significance to the present. The influence of the religious principle is traced in all canons of theatrical performances, the plays of which are based on themes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana and episodes from the Puranas. A wide panorama of the regional traditions of chhaya natak, which exists in various states of the South Asian subcontinent, is also presented: ravana chhaya (Orissa), tolpavakutha (Kerala), tholu bommalata (Andhra-Pradesh), togalu gombiata (Karnataka) and chamdichi bahuli (Maharashtra). The features of their commonality and differences associated with the features of local authentic styles of flat dolls, a traditional repertoire and an accompanying en-semble of musicians are revealed. The role of the Pulawars (puppeteers), which set in motion, voiced puppets and comment on the events that are taking place, is revealed. The current state of chhaya natak and its role in the culture of the South Asian subcontinent are also characterized. Keywords: chhaya natak, shadow theater, South Asia, India, doll, pulavar, tholu bommalata, ravana chhaya, tolpavakuthu, chamdichi bahuli, togalu gombiata. Pp. 03-08.