Udupi, Nov 9: Dr. Tallur Shivaram Shetty, President of the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy, formally urged the state government to bestow "State Art" status upon Yakshagana. Speaking at the valedictory function of the 'Yaksha Sambhrama' program held at Sri Rama Kshetra Mahasamsthana in Dharmasthala, Shetty emphasized that the traditional theatrical art form has matured significantly, deserving official recognition.
Shetty underscored Yakshagana's profound impact, noting it transcends mere performance. "Today, it serves as a vital support system for artists, organizers, and enthusiasts alike," he stated, adding that the Academy has formally submitted its plea, drawing the Chief Minister's attention to the matter. He called upon all art lovers to amplify this demand.
Presiding over the event, Sri Brahmananda Saraswati Swamiji, pontiff of Kanyadi Peetha, offered his blessings. He highlighted Yakshagana's role in guiding individuals towards Dharma, which he described as essential for inner happiness. The Swamiji stressed the importance of unity, urging attendees to set aside political and caste divisions. He advocated for imparting values to younger generations through Yakshagana's narratives, emphasizing that its episodes should inspire moral conduct, not merely entertain.
The 'Yaksha Sambhrama' event, organized by Sri Brahmananda Saraswati Swamiji on behalf of the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy, Bengaluru, featured performances of Yakshagana Thalamaddale and Yakshagana Bayalata. Among the dignitaries present were Sampath B. Suvarna, President of Belthangady Suvarna Samskruti Pratishtana; Sumanth Kumar Jain, President of Guruvayanakere Excel Group of Institutions; entrepreneur Praveen Fernandes; Nagesh Gowda, President of Belthangady Navajnan Sudha Pre-University College; renowned Udupi music scholar Padigaru Lakshminarayana Upadhya; and Yakshagana Academy member Raghav H. Gerukatte. Academy member Dayananda P. Belalu delivered the welcome address, and Vadiraja Kalluraya compered the proceedings.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi