Yakshagana camp opens youth to Tulunadu art

KOZHIKODE: A Yakshagana camp being held at Edneer Mutt in Kasargod for students of  classes from Plus-Two to post-graduation has opened their eyes to the great art form of Tulunadu. The month-long camp organised by the Yaksha-gana Research Centre (YRC) at Government College,  Kasargod, from June 1 is being attended by 23 girls and 10 boys. “The young generation has fallen for the grace of classical art forms,” said Dr Rathnakara Mallamoole,  the YRC coordinator. They fell in love with the  tala, natya and the creative intricacies associated with Yakshagana.

“Theory classes are held up to noon and there is interaction with great Yakshagana artistes in the afternoon. The participants watch Yakshagana from 7 pm to 12 midnight,” said Mr Mallamoole. Well-known Yakshagana artistes such as Suri Kumeri Govinda Bhat, Dr Sridhara Bhandari, Kumble Sridhar Rao, Mavvaru Balakrishna, Tharanatha Vorkady, Subraya Holla Kasargod among others have visited the camp and shared valuable lessons.

“The myths and stories associated with each play, dazzling costumes, nuances of acting, music open a new world before us,” said C.H. Sujatha, a participant. Noted plays, including Sreekrishna Janmam,  Tripura Mathana,  Mathsyavathara and Tulasi Jalandhara were enacted  at Edneer Mutt. The programme is being conducted under the state government’s special development package for  Kasargod. Edneer Mutt head Keshavananda Bharati inaugurated the camp.