Mangaluru: A memorial concert and Tulu Yakshagana performance honouring the legendary artist K. Anantharam Bangadi, widely revered as the “Bheeshma of Tulu Yakshagana prasangas,” will be held on January 11 at 3.00 pm at Tulu Bhavan, Urvastor. The programme is being organised to commemorate his immense contribution to the preservation and enrichment of Tulu Yakshagana, a distinctive folk art tradition of the coastal region.
Remembering a towering figure of Tulu Yakshagana
K. Anantharam Bangadi is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Tulu Yakshagana, particularly for his powerful portrayal of the character Bheeshma, which earned him widespread recognition and respect. His performances were marked by depth, discipline and a profound understanding of classical narrative traditions, making him a benchmark for generations of Yakshagana artistes.
Cultural scholars and Yakshagana practitioners credit Bangadi with strengthening the narrative structure of Tulu Yakshagana prasangas and elevating their performance standards. His dedication to the art form played a significant role in sustaining public interest in Tulu Yakshagana at a time when many traditional folk arts were facing decline.
Seminar on Bangadi’s artistic contribution
As part of the memorial programme, a seminar focusing on Bangadi’s artistic legacy will be held. Senior Yakshagana artist Kolthige Narayana Gowda will deliver a talk on the topic ‘Anantharama Bangadi’s Contribution to Tulu Yakshagana Prasangs’. The session will examine Bangadi’s role in shaping performance techniques, character interpretation and thematic presentation within the Tulu Yakshagana tradition.
The seminar aims to provide younger artistes, researchers and art enthusiasts with insights into Bangadi’s creative approach and the lasting relevance of his work. Organisers said the discussion would also underline the importance of documentation and scholarly engagement with folk art forms.
Dignitaries to grace the programme
The memorial event will be presided over by Taranath Gatti Kapikad, President of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy. Known for his efforts in promoting Tulu language and literature, Kapikad is expected to highlight the cultural significance of honouring stalwarts such as Bangadi.
Dr. Prabhakar Neerumarga, Vice Principal of MAPS College, and Mrs. Veni Maroli, Trustee of Maroli Sri Surya Narayana Temple, will participate as chief guests. Both have been associated with cultural and educational initiatives supporting regional art forms and community-based heritage programmes.
Yakshagana performance after seminar
Following the seminar, a Tulu Yakshagana performance titled ‘Sirikrishne–Chandrapali’ will be staged. The performance is expected to reflect the traditional stylistic elements that Bangadi championed during his career, including expressive dialogue delivery, structured choreography and adherence to classical storytelling formats.
The Yakshagana presentation is being organised by Sanjay Kumar Gonibeedu, coordinator of the Yaksha Talent Institute. According to a statement issued by the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, the performance will serve as a living tribute to Bangadi’s artistic legacy, showcasing the continuity of the tradition he helped strengthen.
Significance of the memorial event
Cultural observers note that such memorial programmes play a vital role in keeping folk traditions alive by connecting past masters with present-day practitioners. By combining scholarly discussion with live performance, the event seeks to create both awareness and inspiration among audiences.
The organisers expressed hope that the programme would encourage greater appreciation for Tulu Yakshagana and motivate young artistes to study the contributions of veterans like Anantharam Bangadi, whose lives were dedicated to the art form.
Conclusion
The memorial concert and Yakshagana performance on January 11 will stand as a tribute to K. Anantharam Bangadi’s enduring impact on Tulu Yakshagana. By revisiting his contributions through discussion and performance, the programme aims to honour his legacy and reaffirm the cultural importance of preserving traditional performing arts for future generations.