Folk Dance Yakshagana | 28 Nov 2024

Source: TH 

Why in News?  

Tulasi Raghvendra Hegde, a 15-year-old prodigy, has gained recognition as a leading Yakshagana performer. Recently awarded the Young Achiever Award 2024 by the Rotary Club of Madras East.

What is Yakshagana? 

• About: Yakshagana is a traditional folk dance-drama from coastal Karnataka, combining dance, music, song, and elaborate costumes.  
  • Its name,  "Yakshagana" translates to "celestial music" (Yaksha meaning celestial and Gana meaning music). and it presents a celestial world through scholarly dialogues and night-long performances. 
  • Yakshagana performances are held in open-air theatres, often in village paddy fields, after harvest. Traditionally performed by men, women are now increasingly part of Yakshagana Melas(troupes). 
• Key Elements of Yakshagana: 
  • The Act: Each performance focuses on a sub-story (Prasanga) from ancient Hindu epics like the Ramayana or Mahabharata.  
    • These performances combine stage acting and commentary, with a lead singer or Bhagavatha narrating the story, accompanied by traditional music. 
  • The Music: Yakshagana music features instruments like Chande (drums), Harmonium, Maddale, Taala (mini metal clappers), and flute, creating a rhythmic atmosphere for the dancers. 
  • The Dress: Performers wear elaborate and unique costumes, including large headgear, colorful face paint, body costumes, and musical beads on the legs (Gejje).  
    • These costumes are heavy, requiring great strength, and the performances last several hours.