Yakshagana Pioneer Leelavathi Baipadithaya Passes Away at 77

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Dec 15, 2024: K Leelavathi Baipadithaya, the first woman to perform as a Yakshagana ‘Bhagavatha’ (singer), passed away on Saturday, December 14, at the age of 77.

A trailblazer in coastal Karnataka’s traditional theatre, Leelavathi broke barriers with a remarkable 40-year career, touring with professional Yakshagana troupes and performing all-night shows. Her melodious voice inspired many women to pursue Yakshagana as singers and performers.

Her life’s story can be an inspiration to many. Born on May 23, 1947  at Madhur  in Kasargod district,  poverty at home prevented Leelavathi  from attending school. Still, she managed to learn out of  her own will from neighbours and her elder brother and later even  earned the  Hindi Visharada title.  Leelavathi who had learnt music in her childhood was introduced to Yakshagana  by her husband  Harinarayanana Baipadittaya,  the renowned Himmela Guru of Thenkutittu Yakshagana.  She learnt the nuances of Yakshagana from her husband  and transformed herself  as one of the leading Bhagavathas  of Thenkutittu at a time when  women virtually had  no opportunity to even watch Yakshagana. Hand-in-hand with her husband, she was part of several famous Melas including the then Subrahmanya, Puttur, Kadri, Kumble, and Bappanadu Melas for  over 4 decades.

She received numerous accolades, including the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy Award, Mangalore University Yakshamangala Award, and the Rajyotsava Award in 2023.

Leelavathi’s legacy as a pioneer in Yakshagana and women’s participation in traditional arts will continue to inspire future generations.