This puppet represents the character of Anggada, a monkey warrior in the Javanese wayang kulit, or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. He is the ruler of the Nganggrastina and the adopted son of Sugriwa, an ape prince. Mahabharata and Ramayana are among the popular wayang stories performed in the Javanese kulit tradition.In some traditions, the epics are mixed connecting both the Mahabharata and Ramayana as represented by this character .Wayang kulit is considered the highest of the performing arts. Performed in the royal courts of Java as early as the ninth century, this tradition continues to be treasured as one of the pusaka or sacred heirlooms of the court. Wayang kulit is traditionally performed on ritual feast days and religious ceremonies. It has also been adapted for television and public education campaigns.
