English Yakshagana show ’Mahisha Mardhini’ staged in Town Hall

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, July 6: The English Yakshagana troupe founded by P. V. Aithal presented an enthralling English Yakshagana show titled “Mahisha Mardhini” at the Town Hall on July 7, Monday.

Advocate P. Santhosh Aithal, son of the late P. V. Aithal, wrote the script for this performance, which has been staged for the first time. The troupe has already presented titles such as “Brahma Kapala,” “Girija Kallyana,” “Daksha Dwara,” “Shri Krishna Parijatha,” “Sairendri Keechaka,” “Narakasura Moksha,” and “Akshayambara,” in English.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P. Santhosh Aithal said that his late father inspired him to author scripts for English Yakshagana shows. He pointed out that, although people will initially find it difficult to grasp the dialogue, they will catch up after four or five songs. He also said that the troupe has performed at cultural festivals in Chennai, Nagpur, Tiruchi, Bangalore, and other places upon invitation from the organizers. 

Vishweshateertha Swamiji, the seer of Pejawar Mutt, delivered the benedictory speech and said that Yakshagana is a mirror that reflects people. Defining Yakshagana as a form of art that teaches Indian culture and tradition, he said that culture and art are strongly associated with each other and one helps define the other. Proclaiming that language cannot restrict true art, he said that the troupe is making an attempt to preach the culture of India to people who do not known local Indian languages. 

President of Karnataka Yakshagana Academy Kumble Sunder Rao was the chief guest of the event. He said that those who appreciate Yakshagana should never forget P. V. Aithal and his invaluable contributions to the art. English Yakshagana helps many people who do not know local languages to understand and enjoy the great art. Speaking about Yakshagana, he said that the art comprises the five elements of dance, song, dialogue, makeup, and costume. He revealed the academy’s plans to launch academic Yakshagana examinations. 

The organizers of the Yakshagana event honored eminent Yakshagana artistes Padyanna Shankaranarayana Bhat, Krishnayya Achar, and Deewana Shankar Bhat in recognition of their valuable contributions to the art with mementos, shawls, and citations. 

Commissioner of Income Tax Vivek Varun Prasad presided over the function and senior advocate Seetharam Shetty was the chief guest.