Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Oct 21: Chittani Ramachandra Hegde, Yakshagana artiste, who has carved out a permanent place for himself in the minds of Yakshagana lovers with his excellent skills, has been a beacon of inspiration and guidance for the youngsters, said Paryaya Puttige Swamiji, Sri Sugunendrateertha.

He was delivering the benedictory address after inaugurating the 'Chittani Yakshagana Week' organized at Rajangan of Srikrishna Mutt here, by the local Chittani Ramachandra Hegde Abhimani Balaga, under the aegis of Paryana Puttige Mutt, here recently.

President of Dakshina Kannada Milk Producers Union, K Raviraj Hegde, who presided, said that the responsibility of conserving Yakshagana art, which is a unique gift of this region, rests on the present generation. An art can live on only if it is transmitted onwards, he asserted.

Udupi Yuva Brahmin Sangh president Ranjan Kalkura, who was the chief guest, also spoke on the occasion. Convener of Chittani Ramachandra Hegde Abhimani Balaga, Tallur Shivaram Shetty, and secretary, Gopikrishna Rao, were present. Honorary president T V Rao welcomed. Narayan Hegde presented the programme.

On the first day, 'Choodamani' Yakshagana episode was staged by Sri Veeranjaneya Yakshamitra Mandali Bangaramakki, Gerusoppa, in which guest artistes Heranjal Gopal Ganiga, Kondadakuli Ramachandra Hegde, Neelavar Mahabal Shetty and Mugwa Ganesh Naik also participated. Chittani who donned the lead role, excelled with his performance.