Media Release
Texas, Sep 9: ‘Tulunada Isiri’ was performed on September 3 at Navika Kannada Sammelana 2023 held in Austin city of Texas, USA. This programme which showcased the history, and a vibrant celebration of rich beautiful culture of the Tulunadu, was appreciated by the viewers through giving them applause with a standing ovation.
When the members of the Austin Tulu Koota gathered for a picnic, Anusuya Poonja shared her idea about organising a programme on Tulunadu. In later days, Anusuya Poonja, Malathi Nagabhushan, Venkatesh Acharya, Supriya Rao and Dhanyashree Chakrapani met several times, carried out the discussions and finally prepared the outline of Tulunada Isiri. More than 60 talented people were recruited into the team.
Despite the heat of Texas, everyone enthusiastically participated as a team. Properties for Bhootaradhane, Kambala and Yakshagana were prepared under the leadership of Soumya Rao. Through the funding by Dr Shivakumar and Uma Bavikatte. The costumes were also brought from Bhavana Arts, Puttur.
The programme began with narration and dance, introducing the culture of Tulunadu. With an explanation of why it is called Parashurama Srishtri, Parashurama sets his foot onto the stage. Why Naga worship is very important here and what Naga Mandala means is explained in the next chapter. After this, the performance Koti Chennayya, the twin heroes shining in the history of Tulunadu. Later, the tradition of Aati Kalenja coming home to home in the month of Aati to get rid of the Mari stuck to the village was performed and also the tradition of Udupi district that is, Kunita Kangilu dance and Tiger dance were performed. The unique cultural heritage of Tulunada such as Bhutaradhane, harvesting celebration and folk sports like Kambala and Korikatta were shown. Further, the famous coastal fine art known as Yakshagana was performed by the team of girls to the Niratavadidhalu song of Paatla Satish Shetty. In the end there was a grand entry of Mahishasura, the son of Malini. The programme came to an end with the annihilation of Mahishasura by Devi.
Anusuya Poonja conceptualized and directed the programme. Malathi Nagabhushan penned the narration of Tulunada Isiri while renowned singer Akhila Pajimannu eloquently presented it with her wonderful voice. Anusuya Poonja, Venkatesh Acharya, Supriya Rao, Dhanyashree Chakrapani and Divya Naveen composed the story lines and skilfully choreographed the story. The music and video editing was done by Sunil Ramachandra.
Out of all the programmes showcased at Navika Kannada Sammelana 2023, Tulunada Isiri was marked as one of the best shows by the viewers.