YAKSHAGANA
: ART & CULTURE
NEWS
:
UNESCO Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage accredits Keremane Idagunji
Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS ?
The mandali, the first to achieve the distinction in
Karnataka, plays an advisory role in accomplishing the mission of the UNSECO
Convention.
UNESCO
Recognition:
- Accreditation:
Keremane Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali accredited by UNESCO
Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- Founded:
In 1934 by Late Keremane Shivarama Hegde.
- Objective:
To educate future generations, protect Yakshagana from decline, and
promote its continued relevance.
Yakshagana:
- Origin:
Emerged between the 11th and 16th centuries in coastal Karnataka and parts
of Kerala.
- Art Form:
A blend of dance, music, dialogues, colorful costumes, and heavy facial
makeup.
- Inspiration:
Influenced by the Vaishnava Bhakti movement, developed as a dance drama
under the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Themes:
Hindu tales from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and stories of Lord Krishna and
Vishnu.
- Instruments:
Accompanied by chenda, maddalam, cymbals (jagatta, chengila, chakratala).
- Gender Roles:
Traditionally, men played all roles; today, women are also part of
Yakshagana troupes.