Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Oct 21: A beautiful chapter of religious harmony unfolded in the realm of coastal Yakshagana as Arshiya Khan, a Muslim artiste, captivated the audience by portraying the lead role of Goddess Ashtabhuje Sridevi in the 'Devi Mahatme' prasanga at the Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple premises.
Arshiya, popularly known as 'Tanu Vitla', hails from Mada near Vittal in Bantwal taluk and is a staff member at Daijiworld. She took to the stage as Ashtabhuje Sridevi during the performance on October 20. Already holding the distinction of being the first Muslim female Yakshagana artiste, she has previously excelled in various roles, including Mahishasura. However, her debut performance as Goddess Sridevi garnered widespread appreciation from art lovers.
The performance was part of the 14th year 'Kadali Dashaha', a 10-day Yakshagana programme organised by the Kadali Kala Kendra at the Rajangana of the Kadri Manjunatha temple for Dasara, from October 11 to October 20. Artistes from renowned Tenkutittu Yakshagana melas participated in the special valedictory show, 'Sampoorna Sri Devi Mahatme'.
Adding to the event's special appeal, Daijiworld's video division manager Wilson Saldanha and staff member Sowmya Gudigar also performed special roles in the 'Sampoorna Devi Mahatme' prasanga.
A large number of Yakshagana enthusiasts gathered to witness the performance and lauded the dedication and skill of the artistes.