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Yakshagana originated in the 11th century in coastal Karnataka as a form of entertainment for rural audiences. After a long day’s work, folks would gather under a tree or even in the middle of a field and enjoy the ‘living theatre’.
Based mainly on tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Puranas, the characters were from epics, playing out an oft-repeated story. The performance, which comprised dance, drama, music and dance, was meant to entertain and educate.
Today, with the advent of social media and the changing tastes of the younger generations, Yakshagana has also evolved to encapsulate more today than what it originally set out to do.
“Fictionalised stories, daily life lessons, tales of trials and tribulations that don’t necessarily belong within our holy books, also found their way into performance. But with a positive message, the intent was always to educate the people,” says Anchan.
Diwakar Das, Yakshagana performer and teacher, said that the change had to come from the actors.
“People of all political affiliations go to watch a performance. It is a place where people come together. Instead, if the artist chooses to bring his own politics in the picture, it is not good for anyone. It can also lead to fights and disagreements, as it has in the past,” he said.
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