Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)
Mangaluru, Feb 16: Balipa Narayana Bhagavatha, legendary Yakshagana artiste known for his great voice passed away on Thursday, February 16.
He was 84 years old.
He hailed from Padre, Kasargod and was staying at Nooyi near Moodbidri. He had served at Kateel Durgaparameshwari Yakshagana mela as an artiste for several years. He had created several contexts and songs of Yakshagana.
Thousands of people including dignitaries, public representatives and artistes have condoled his death. His son, artist Bhagawatha Prasad had passed away in April, 2022.
Balipa Narayana Bhagawath has served Yakshagana art for more than 60 years. He first started Padre Jatadari Mela. He knew by heart more than 50 contexts of Yakshagana. Of them, 30 were published.
He was called the Bheeshma of Thenuku Thittu Yaksha Rangha. He had written a five-day long ‘Devi Mahatme’ story which is a masterpiece in the history of Yakshagana. He has received several awards including Samagra Prashasthi 2021, Karnataka Janapada and Yakshagana Jana Prashasthi, 2003, Karnataka Janapada Parishad Doddamane Lingegowda Prashasthi 2002 and several other awards including Karnataka Rajyotsava award.