Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jun 2: Yakshagana artiste Ashriya Tanu Vitla was felicitated by dignitaries during the “Dashama Sambhrama 2025” celebrations organised by Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation Trust, Mangaluru, at Adyar Garden on Monday, June 2.
Arshiya, who is famous under her stage name ‘Tanu Vitla’, hails from the town of Vittal in Bantwal taluk. She has been in the scene of Yakshagana for quite some time now and has performed various episodes and is considered to be a popular artiste. Arshiya at a very young age was mesmerized by the role of Mahishasura in Shri Devi Mahatme Yakshagana Prasanga (episode) performed near her home town. Since then, she claims to have been fascinated by the art form, the role, chende sound and Pravesha. Arshiya states that these sources caused her inclination to learn the art form.
Arshiya has learnt Yakshagana at Kadali Kala Kendra in Mangaluru under Ramesh Bhat who presented her the opportunity to perform and portray prominent roles.
She claims to have always loved the roles of Asuras (villain roles), especially the Pravesha. Arshiya has performed roles of Nishambhasura, Raktha Beejasura and Mahishasura in Shri Devi Mahatme Prasanga.
The programme began with floral tribute to the portrait of Goddess Kateel Durgaparameshwari. Foundation founder Patla Satish Shetty, in his welcome speech, said, “Today, we are holding continuous programmes across three stages. This success is the result of tireless efforts by every office-bearer and member of our central and regional committees. Thanks to the support of donors, we aim to expand our social outreach even further.”
Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation honorary president and CMD of Herambha Industries, Dr Kanyana Sadashiva Shetty, said, “It is my fortune to be a part of this foundation. I thank all office-bearers, including those abroad. Yakshagana, which began with Parthisubba, has now flourished through Patla Satish Shetty’s vision. It is the pride of Tulunadu, and no other artform matches its completeness. Through Yakshagana, we impart religious and cultural values to children. May this continue endlessly.”
Edneer Math seer Sri Sacchidananda Bharati, in his blessings, said, “The Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation proves how much social good can be achieved in 10 years when a group of people unite with dedication. This is nothing short of magic. The foundation has provided healthcare to artistes and housing for the underprivileged — a commendable achievement. The decennial celebrations today are unique and vibrant, promoting social harmony. I wholeheartedly congratulate the trustees and donors.”
“After donating a silver cradle, I witnessed great progress in life!” – Dr K Prakash Shetty
During the event, Dr K Prakash Shetty, CMD of MRG Group, remarked, “For Satish Patla, his voice is his God. But for Yakshagana artistes, Satish Patla himself is their god. These artistes entertain people without ever stretching their hands in need, even amidst personal struggles. Patla’s foundation was born out of the desire to support them. When he requested a cradle in the early days, I immediately donated a silver one. Since then, I’ve seen immense progress in my own life and business. Let us all come together to support his noble mission.”
2025 Yakshadhruva Mahaposaka Award conferred on Ikkala Harish Shetty couple
The prestigious 2025 Yakshadhruva Mahaposaka Award was presented to Ikkala Harish Shetty and Chandrika Harish Shetty, president and first lady of the Global Federation of Bunt Associations.
Accepting the honour, Ikkala Harish Shetty said, “Satish Patla is a devoted follower of Kateel Durgaparameshwari. We see how artistes who perform Yakshagana for six months struggle to sustain themselves the remaining half of the year. The foundation has supported thousands of such artistes. I will remain committed to this organisation for life. More than the award, what matters is the love behind it. Let all religions continue to coexist peacefully in Tulunadu. Patla is a force — may youth come forward to strengthen this force.”
The stage was graced by several dignitaries including Odiyoor Math seer Matanandamayi, Alva’s Education Foundation president Dr M Mohan Alva, Uday Kumar Shetty of Muniyal, businessman Katilu Divakar Rao, Dr Suresh Rao Katilu of Sanjeevini Hospital, major donor M L Samaga from Udupi, Satish Bhandary of Nitte University, Kanyana Raghuram Shetty, CA Subhashchandra Behrin, Shyam Prasad, Palli Kishan Hegde, CA Surendra Shetty, Permude Ashok Shetty, Prof Dr Manu Rao, Kerekatté Uday Shetty, Preetham Shetty, organising secretary of the central committee Bal Jagannath Shetty, Pradeep Alva, Kadri Karunakar Rai Derla, Chelladka Radhakrishna Shetty, Sarapady Ashok Shetty, Durgaprasad, Nagabhushan, Savanuru Seetharam Rai, Lion Taranath Shetty Bolar, and women’s wing president Poornima Yatheesh Rai.