Kateel Yakshagana Mela, Karnataka

Context:

Recently, the Karnataka High Court has allowed the over-a-century-old Yakshagana mela, the Kateel Durgaparameshwari Prasadita Yakshagana Mandali, in Dakshina Kannada will revert to all-night shows from January 14, adhering to Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

About Yakshagana (Song of Yaksha)

• A Recreational Activity: It is the most popular dance of Karnataka. 
  • The dance-drama is a night-long event in open-air theaters, typically in village paddy fields after the winter crop has been harvested. 
• Origin: Often traced back to the 11th to 16th centuries CE, it includes stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
  • Parthi Subba is considered the father of Yakshagana. He composed around 18 Yakshagana prasangas (the text of verses).
• Aim: To entertain people living in remote villages of coastal Karnataka, with Yakshagana troupes traveling from village to village, spreading their theatrical magic wherever they go.
• Forms: It has two forms:
  • The Moodalopaya Form: It is commonly performed in the eastern region.
  • The Puduvlopaya Form: It is more common in the western region. 

• Features: 

  • Performance Style: The Yakshagana performance combines songs, music, scholarly dialogues and dance. 
  • Wearing: Performers usually wear “large size headgear, colored faces, elaborate costumes all over the body and musical beads on the legs (Gejje). 
    • Performers need a great physique for several hours, a strong voice, and acting/dancing skills.
  • Performed by: It traditionally featured men portraying all roles. But, now women are also part of these troupes.
  • Used Musical Instruments: Chande (drums), Taala (mini metal clappers), Flute, Harmonium and Maddale.

About Troupes

• Each troupe comprises 15 to 20 actors and a Bhagavatha, who is the master of ceremonies and main storyteller. 
• The Yakshagana troupes are known as ‘melas’ and perform throughout the year, particularly in Udupi, South Canara, and North Canara.
• Renowned Troupes: Saligrama Mela, Dharmasthala Mela and Mandarthi Mela showcase Yakshagana annually.
• Kateel: It refers to the town of Kateel in Karnataka, known for its unique troupes or ‘Melas’ performing this art form.

Also Refer: Classical Dances Of India, Updated 2023-24 List 

News Source: The Hindu