Daijiworld Media Network – Sullia
Sullia, Oct 24: Senior Yakshagana artiste of the Thenku Thittu tradition and proprietor of ‘Rangamane’, Sujana Sullia, passed away on Friday, October 24, due to age-related ailments. He was 89.
Born into the well-known Navoor family of Sullia, Sujana began his artistic journey as a theatre actor. Inspired by his uncle, Kavu Srinivas Rai, he transitioned into Yakshagana and served various renowned troupes including Ballambettu, Dharmasthala, Ira Somanatheshwara, Kudroli, Koodlu, Adi Subrahmanya, Sunkadakatte, and Kateel for over 36 years.
Sujana earned fame for his exceptional performances in comic roles and his ability to portray both male and female characters with great skill and impact. A versatile artiste, he mastered every aspect of Yakshagana — excelling in talamaddale, makeup artistry, and stagecraft.
As a Yakshagana guru, he founded the ‘Videyadevi Natya Kala Sangha’ in Sullia and established the ‘Sujana Yakshagana Study Centre’ under ‘Rangamane’, nurturing and training several young Yakshagana enthusiasts.
A recipient of many honours, Sujana was awarded the Yakshagana Kalaranga Prashasti in 2008 for his outstanding contribution to the art form.
He is survived by his son, theatre personality Jeevanaram Sullia, and a daughter.