Daijiworld Media Network – Bahrain

Bahrain, Sep 24: The bond between Yakshagana and the Kannada Sangha Bahrain spans nearly four and a half decades. The sangha holds the distinction of introducing Yakshagana overseas and staging performances with complete traditional orchestra and artistes. Hence, the rhythmic beats of the chende continue to resonate across the island nation from time to time.

Once again, the grandeur of this vibrant coastal art form will be showcased in Bahrain. The Kannada Sangha has organised its annual Yakshagana programme, Yaksha Vaibhava 2025, on Friday, September 26 at 5 pm at the Sangha’s cultural auditorium. The event will feature the presentation of two popular episodes — Gajendra Moksha and Indrajitu Kalaga.

For the first time in the island’s Yakshagana history, the stage will witness a unique collaboration of local artistes with eminent guest artistes from Karnataka. The performance will be staged under the direction of renowned Yakshaguru, Yakshapurushottama Deepak Pejavar.

The cast includes celebrated Yakshagana artistes such as senior Bhagavata Srinivas Ballamanja of Kateel troupe, Lakshman Shetty Taremare, Akshay Bhat Moodbidri, Savinaya Nellitirtha, and Yakshaguru Shekar D Shettigar from Yakshagana Abhyasa Kendra, Dubai. Along with the Sangha’s local artistes, they will display their artistic excellence in both himmela and mummela.

The guest artistes have already arrived in Bahrain, and rehearsals are in full swing. With just days left, the countdown for Yaksha Vaibhava has begun.

Entry to the programme is free, and the sangha president, Ajith Bangera, has appealed to all Yakshagana enthusiasts to attend in large numbers and support this rich traditional art form.