Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Dec 11: Adoor Ganesh Rao, top notch Maddale artiste of Thenku Thittu Yakshagana form, who was associated with Dharmasthala Mela, breathed his last on Tuesday, December 11 morning.

Rao (50), was suffering from liver-related ailments, it is gathered.

Ganesh Rao was being treated at a private hospital at Deralakatte here. He suffered cardiac arrest on Tuesday morning and passed away.

Ganesh was considered as one among a handful of artistes who have mastered the art of playing Maddale, a percussion instrument resembling drum. He learnt the nuances of the art when he was 13. His father and grandfather were well known Maddale artistes, and Rao was trained by his father in this art form.

Rao has left behind wife, a son and a daughter. He had settled down at Punaroor. He forayed into Yakshagana field as a Chende artiste, but in course of time, shaped into one of the finest Maddale players of Thenku Thittu.

Yakshagana lovers have shed copious tears at the loss of an excellent artiste and human being.