Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 18: The ‘Bhramari Yakshavaibhava-2026’, an annual event organized by the Bhramari Yakshamithraru Mangaluru Trust, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 1 at the Kudmul Ranga Rao Town Hall, Mangaluru, starting at 7:00 pm.
The highlight of the event will be the presentation of the prestigious ‘Bhramari Yakshamani’ Award to veteran Yakshagana artiste K H Dasappa Rai. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 15,000, a citation, and a silver medal.
About the awardee:
K H Dasappa Rai, a stalwart in the field, began his journey in Yakshagana at the age of 15. With over six decades of dedicated service, he has performed with renowned troupes such as the Karnataka Mela, Kadri Mela, Kumbale Kanipura Mela, and Mangaladevi Mela, showcasing his talent both nationally and internationally. He is widely acclaimed for his iconic portrayals of ‘Koti’ in the Koti Chennaya Yakshagana and ‘Mainda Gurikare’ in Kadamallige. Beyond his prowess as an artiste, he is also recognized as an accomplished troupe leader (Yajamana).
Bhramari Yakshaseva Puraskara:
During the event, the ‘Bhramari Yakshaseva Puraskara’ will be presented to:
Monappa Gowda: A dedicated background artiste (Nepathya) with three decades of experience.
Sri Dattatreya Yakshagana and Bhajan Mandali (Mudipu Kurnaad): An institution that has been organizing Yakshagana Talamaddale and providing training for over 90 years.
Each awardee will receive a cash prize of Rs 6,000 and a citation.
Distinguished guests:
The award ceremony will be graced by several dignitaries, including:
Prof G K Bhat Seraje: Retired professor and senior Yakshagana Arthadhari.
Vedavyas Kamath: MLA.
Pradeep Kumar Kalkura: President, Kalkura Foundation.
Rajshekhar Kotian: Industrialist, Mangaluru.
Sridhar Shetty Pulincha: President, Pulincha Seva Prathisthana.
The formal stage programme will be followed by an all-night Yakshagana performance featuring renowned artistes of the Tenkutittu style. The performances include Ambhashapatha, Lakshmi Swayamvara, and Tamradhwaja Kalaga. Admission to the event is free for all Yakshagana enthusiasts.
The organizers have invited all art lovers to attend the event and celebrate the rich heritage of Yakshagana.