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In 18th century, under the influence of Kathakali, glove puppeteers began to dress their puppets in Kathakali costumes; they adapted themes from Attakatha, the text of Kathakali. Pavakathakali is a traditional glove puppetry show native to Kerala. The puppets made of wood, exhibit detailed carvings. They are up to two feet in height, painted in various shades and adorned with gilded tin, transparent corals and peacock feathers.. Under its wooden upper portion of the body is a bag concealed by a flowing robe. The puppeteer inserts his hand into the bag and manipulates the puppet with his fingers. Its hands are operated with the thumb and middle finger while the head is controlled by the index finger.

This art form is performed mostly in the rural areas. As in Kathakali, the stories are taken from great epics like Ramayana, Mahabharatha etc. The artists control the puppets in the play. Narration style is similar to that of Kathakali. The puppeteer sits on an elevated platform holding the puppets and giving the required movements. The performance is accompanied by music produced using traditional instruments like Chenda and conch shells. The show, performed during the evening, lasts for about an hour or two. The necessary illumination is provided by a brass oil-lamp.