Puppet Workshop-Museum

In the late 20th century, a puppet show that celebrated Uzbek traditions became a major attraction for tourists. After one such performance, a spectator was so captivated by a puppet that resembled her that she insisted on buying it. Despite his initial reluctance, as the puppet was a key character and irreplaceable, Iskandar Khakimov eventually agreed to sell it. This sale necessitated the creation of a new puppet, prompting Khakimov to delve into the art of puppet-making himself. This marked the beginning of the Puppet Museum.

Today, the Workshop-Museum of Bukhara Puppets is a compact yet vibrant display space featuring a variety of handcrafted figures. These papier-mache puppets, standing at a height of 40-50 centimeters, each possess unique facial expressions and emotions, complemented by distinctive attire. Skillfully crafted by Iskandar, these puppets mirror real people he has encountered in films, news, or even on the streets. This uncanny resemblance to human personalities sets this museum apart, making it truly exceptional.

The museum proudly curates a collection of historical resources related to Uzbekistan’s puppet theater, alongside a fascinating assortment of photos featuring individuals with their puppet lookalikes. It is not uncommon for visitors to spot a puppet that bears an uncanny resemblance to a friend, leading them to purchase the puppet and send a whimsical photo to the museum’s creator, Iskandar Khakimov.

Khakimov continues to produce his distinctive puppets in his workshop, located just above the museum. The meticulous process of crafting a puppet involves several steps, from drafting the initial sketch to molding the plaster body, applying papier-mache, painting the face, and finally, sewing the clothes. The workshop employs 17 people, with men creating the shapes of future dolls and women sewing clothes and headdresses and attaching jewelry. In a week of productive work, about 15 dolls can be made. Occasionally, Khakimov holds master classes, where he reveals the intricate techniques behind creating these captivating puppets.

The museum-workshop, a veritable treasure trove of Uzbek puppets, is nestled in the heart of Bukhara, on the southern side of the Lyabi-Hauz ensemble. It also features a souvenir shop that sells these delightful puppets. Over time, many international tourists have been charmed by Khakimov’s vibrant characters and taken them home as unique mementos of their visit.

Address: 2 Sarrafon Street, Lyabi-Hauz, Bukhara
Phone: (+998 90) 514-44-22
Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, with a break from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm
Admission: Free