Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru ( NJC)
Mangaluru, Jun 3: The Tenkutittu Chikkamela Federation, Dakshina Kannada District Central Committee, has announced a new set of regulations aimed at preserving the traditional Chikkamela system of Yakshagana and ensuring that performances are conducted in a disciplined and dignified manner.
Speaking at a press conference, Ashok Shetty Sarapady said Yakshagana is an invaluable cultural heritage of the coastal region and that the centuries-old tradition of Chikkamela performances, in which artistes visits homes and present Yakshagana during the monsoon season, must be protected and maintained with respect. He noted that in recent years, some unauthorized groups have been conducting performances in the name of Chikkamela, bringing disrepute to the art form. To address this issue, the federation has been formed to bring all Chikkamela teams in the district under a common framework of rules and regulations.
As per the newly announced guidelines, only teams that obtain official authorization from the federation will be allowed to conduct Chikkamela performances. Programmes must be held only between 6 pm and 10.30 pm, and the performances should consist of meaningful Yakshagana episodes in Kannada or Tulu, carrying positive social messages and not exceeding 20 minutes in duration. The federation will also coordinate the movement of teams to ensure that multiple troupes do not visit the same household in a particular locality.
The federation has further stated that members of the public may lodge complaints with it in the event of any misconduct or undesirable incidents involving Chikkamela teams. In addition, a portion of the revenue collected through performances will be reserved for a welfare fund to support Yakshagana artistes facing financial hardship and other difficulties.
Expressing concern over the misuse of Yakshagana costumes, the federation strongly opposed the practice of individuals wearing Yakshagana attire and seeking alms during festivals and public celebrations. It urged the district administration to take necessary action to curb such activities, stating that they diminish the dignity and cultural value of the traditional art form.
The federation appealed to the public to extend support only to officially authorized Chikkamela teams and thereby contribute to the welfare and livelihood of genuine Yakshagana artistes. It also requested art lovers and citizens to immediately inform the local police if they come across unauthorized persons misusing Yakshagana costumes or conducting performances without permission.
General secretary Kumar Malemar, vice-president Ramesh Kulashekar, Mohana Kalambady, treasurer Divakara Das, legal advisor Mohan Das Rai and Jayant Kerekadu were present at the press conference.