This puppet represents the character of Srikandi (Shikhandini/Shikandi), in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. In the Javanese adaptation, she was the second wife of Arjuna, the greatest of the Pandava brothers in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata, and the daughter of King Drupada, the king of Panchala. She was raised as a man, and was an adventurous female warrior. Although born as a girl, she later becomes a man, Shikhandi, to fullfill a vow. In the Javanese version of the story, however, the character remains a woman. Hindu epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana are among the popular wayang stories performed in the Javanese kulit tradition.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.
