Bengaluru/Mangaluru: A major political row erupted on Wednesday after Kannada Development Authority (KDA) president Purushothama Bilimale reportedly claimed that several Yakshagana artistes are homosexuals, triggering sharp criticism from the BJP and cultural groups across the coastal region.
BJP terms remarks “outrageous”, seeks immediate sacking
State BJP president B. Y. Vijayendra led the attack, calling Bilimale’s statement “outrageous” and demanding his immediate dismissal. He said the remarks amounted to an insult to Yakshagana artistes, the coastal belt and the “entire Hindu community,” accusing the ruling Congress of promoting a “distorted mindset” through individuals occupying official posts.
Vijayendra urged chief minister Siddaramaiah to remove the KDA chief without delay. “These comments cannot be tolerated. They demean a centuries-old art form and its dedicated artistes,” he said. BJP leaders have also called for statewide protests and urged members of all parties to join in opposing Bilimale’s statement.
Bilimale’s comments spark widespread outrage
Bilimale made the remarks on Tuesday during the launch of two Kannada books in Mysuru. Videos of the event, which went viral on social media, show him alleging that many Yakshagana artistes “were drawn into same-sex relationships” due to the extended periods they spend travelling with troupes.
He further claimed that male artistes who portray female characters face additional pressures within troupes and are sometimes subjected to coercion. According to him, those who resisted advances were “targeted” by the bhagavatha (lead singer), who could allegedly withhold specific verses during performances, affecting an artiste’s role, reputation and livelihood.
The comments triggered immediate condemnation from cultural experts, Yakshagana troupes and performers, who described the remarks as uninformed, derogatory and damaging to the art form’s legacy.
Political heat intensifies ahead of winter session
With the winter legislative session approaching, BJP leaders appear poised to raise the issue in both Houses. Party insiders said they plan to demand an unconditional apology from Bilimale and press the chief minister for clarity on whether disciplinary action will be taken.
Several Yakshagana organisations in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have issued statements criticising Bilimale’s remarks and urging the state government to protect the dignity of artistes. Some performers also said the comments could create stigma and misunderstanding around an art form deeply rooted in coastal Karnataka’s cultural identity.
Congress leaders have not yet issued an official response, though party sources indicated that the government is assessing the situation, aware that the controversy could escalate quickly given Yakshagana’s cultural significance.
Social media amplifies controversy
As clips of the event circulated widely online, the issue drew strong reactions from public figures and citizens. Many criticised the generalisation of an entire artistic community, while others demanded the KDA chief either substantiate his claims or withdraw them publicly.
The uproar underscores the sensitivity around cultural traditions and the political risks attached to public commentary on them. With the BJP mobilising for protests and cultural groups demanding accountability, the state government is expected to face increasing pressure in the days ahead.
Conclusion
What began as an academic discussion at a book release has now snowballed into a political and cultural flashpoint. With the opposition intensifying its campaign and Yakshagana communities expressing hurt and anger, the government will likely be compelled to respond formally. Whether this results in Bilimale’s removal or a clarified explanation remains to be seen, but the controversy is far from over.