Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Aug 10: The life of Yakshagana artistes have been in a wretched situation. They are finding it difficult to lead a comfortable life. The artistes have not been extended any help from either the government or owner of the Yakshagana troupe during these unprecedented times brought about by the lockdown. For several of these artistes, Yakshagana is a means of earning a livelihood. We urge the government in helping us receive half of the annual remuneration so that the artistes can sustain amid problematic situations, said Kodi Vishwanath Ganiga at a press club in Brahmagiri on Monday, August 10.

Speaking to the media he said, "The Yakshagana artistes work from November to May, for six months in a year. Recently, the government released money for these artistes, unfortunately, only a few of them received it. Artistes who perform under the temples who have endowment were the only ones to receive government benefits. It is unfair to the other artistes who are also keen on receiving monetary benefits."

Shashakanth Shetty, Karkala, the artiste of Saligrama mela said, "Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary acknowledged our situation. However, other political representatives have turned a deaf ear to our condition. Most of the Yakshagana melas function through temples. There are 15 Badagu and Thenku troupes that are owned by private individuals."

Shetty urged the government to take over all private troupes under its governance and hoped the administration comes forward to help the artists.

Ganesh Balagara, Shankar Narayana meal; Gopal Poojary, Megharvalli mela, Narayana Naika and others were present.