Daijiworld Media Network – Moodbidri

Moodbidri, Feb 12: Senior Yakshagana artiste and veteran bhagavata (lead singer-narrator) Malali Sudhakar Kulal (Dasappa), aged 78, passed away at Malali on February 10.

He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Sudhakar Kulal was widely known for leading the Yakshagana troupe that portrayed Lord Krishna during the famed Mosaru Kudike celebration held as part of the Gopalakrishna Temple festivities in Moodbidri. His contribution as a bhagavata and maddale (percussion) artiste earned him respect in Yakshagana circles.

For over six decades, he was engaged in the tailoring profession at Malali. Alongside his vocation, he actively served in the cultural field as a bhagavata and performer with the Sri Ramanjeneya Yakshagana Mandali, Malali.

He was also an active member of the Ramanjeneya Bhajana Mandali and had recently been honoured as the honorary president during the Mandali’s 75th anniversary celebrations.

His demise has cast a shadow of grief among Yakshagana artistes and devotees in the region.