Coastal Karnataka’s signature folk dance performance
Yakshagana is a traditional folk dance form popular in Coastal Karnataka districts.
A trip to the coastal belt would be incomplete without watching the Yakshagana – an elaborate dance-drama performance unique to Karnataka. It is a rare combination of dance, music, song, scholarly dialogues and colourful costumes. A celestial world unfolds before the audience, as loud singing and drumming form a backdrop to dancers clad in striking costumes. Hence the name Yaksha (celestial) Gana (music). This is a night-long event, with elaborately adorned performers dancing to the beat of drums in open-air theatres – usually in the village paddy fields after the winter crop has been harvested. Traditionally, men portray all roles, including the female ones, though women are now part of Yakshagana troupes. A typical troupe consists of 15 to 20 actors and a Bhagavatha, who is the master of ceremonies and the main storyteller. The performances draw crowds from far and wide, with a fair-ground atmosphere pervading the venue till dawn.
Elements of Yakshagana:
The Act:
Each performance typically focuses on a small sub-story (known as ‘Prasanga’) from ancient Hindu epics of Ramayana or Mahabharata. The show consists of both stage performances by talented artists and commentary (performed by the lead singer or Bhagavatha) accompanied by traditional music. A traditional Yakshagana performance spans the period from dusk to dawn. Nowadays ‘limited-time’ Yakshagana has become more popular, as most spectators are taken up with busy schedules. In such cases, it is a three-to four-hour performance at least. Though this constraint on time has cut down many regular features, the glory of Yakshagana has not diminished so far. One gets to watch the splendour and grandeur of customs, the progression of characters and the scenes etched out in detail, in a full-scale Yakshagana performed by a mela or troupe.
The Dress:
Costumes used in Yakshagana are very unique and elaborate. Large size head gear, coloured faces, elaborate costumes all over the body and musical beads on the legs (Gejje). Performers need great physique to perform with heavy costume for several hours and also strong voice and acting/dancing skills.
There are several popular troupes (known as Melas) performing Yakshagana throughout theyear. Saligrama mela, Dharmasthala Mela, Mandarthi Mela, Kateel Mela, Perduru Mela, Maranakatte mela are some of the leading names.
Experiencing Yakshagana:
Yakshagana performances occur at multiple places in the districts of Udupi, South Canara and North Canara. Check on local media or your host to help identify an upcoming Yakshagana performance near you during your visit to coastal Karnataka districts.
Some shows are sponsored by local donors; few are performed at government sponsored events while others could be ticketed events. Most events run overnight from sunset to sunrise and patrons get to enjoy the elaborate performance and cultural extravaganza. Do not miss an opportunity to witness one of Karnataka’s unique art forms.
By
Monika M Padukone
BCA 4th SEM(U03DD21S0002)
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