About Art Form of Karnataka Yakshagana

Yakshagana is normally performed in regions where agriculture is the primary source of the economy; the shows are planned mainly during the rainy seasons to keep up the spirit of farmers.

This theatre play is delivered in either Tulu or Kannada, the most spoken languages in the Karnataka region. Uthara Kannada, Udupi, Shimoga, and Kasargod are some of the places where Yakshagana is most prominent.

The venue for Yaksha Gana performances is usually made of mud, resembling a Theatre with special lighting. Dancers appear on stage in richly coloured costumes and makeup, including headgear, armlets, belts, and chest covers called pagade, Buja keerthi, Dabu, and Kavacha, all made of very lightweight wood, decorated with golden foils and mirrorwork to reflect the lighting when the performance is on.

The highlight is that Yakshagana involves puppetry, with puppets presented in costumes, ornaments, and makeup similar to those of the live actors.

Depending on the region, Yakshagana has different varieties, such as Moodalopaya, Paduvlopaya, Tenkuttitu, Badakuttitu, and Badabadagattitu, with slight variations in style.

Bhagawath is the lead singer for the entire troupe, narrating the events from the Kavyas and Puranas scheduled for the day. Along with his narration, musical instruments like the maddala or chande take you to a different world as you witness the vibrant performers beautifully enacting every event.

Himmela and Mummela are the broad categories of Yakshagana, and the classification is based on the types of musical instruments used to accompany the lead singer and dancers. Yakshagana, the ancient art native to Malnad, is slowly gaining popularity in Mumbai and Bengaluru as well.