Dubai: On September 15, 2024, Yakshamitraru Dubai, one of the oldest Yakshagana groups in the Gulf region, proudly presented “Bappanadu Kshetra Mahathme” at the Emirates Theatre in Dubai. This historical play celebrated the group’s 21st anniversary under the esteemed direction of Kishore Kumar Gatty Uchila.
The stage, adorned with vibrant decorations and enhanced by innovative traditional music and cold spark effects, set the scene for an unforgettable performance.
The event began with traditional prayers at a beautifully decorated chowki puja, led by Bhavani Shankar Sharma under the guidance of Puthige Vasudev Bhat , Santhosh and Venkatesh Shastry. The program was officially inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony by distinguished guests and core committee members.
The chief guests at the event included Vasudeva Bhat Puttige, James Mendonza, Abdul Latif Mulki, Vittal Kulal, Sandesh Shetty, Dinesh Shetty, Yajnesh C, Harish Bangera, Harish Sherigar, Divakar Shetty, Padmaraj Yekkar, Sathish Poojary, and Noel D’Almeida, who graced the dais with their presence.
The evening also included tributes to esteemed artists from Tulunadu, including the gifted Bhagavata Ganesh Bhat Hosamulle, vibrant chande artist Delanta Majalu Subrahmanya Bhat, and renowned maddale artist Lokesh Kateel, who were honored for their significant contributions to Yakshagana.
Other artists recognized for their work included costume and makeup artist Jayanth Paivalike, and performers Dr. Mahesh Kumar Savanoor, Radhakrishna Navada Madhur, Shivaraj Baja Kudlu, and Bhuvan Shetty Bollar. Senior members of the Yakshamitraru team, including Chidananda Pujari and Satish Shetty, also attended the event.
The Purvaranga featured a grand performance by young children as Bala Gopala, introducing a new element with traditional musical band sets in Yakshagana. The innovative appearances of Jala Durga and the high-voltage entrances of Guliga and Varaha captivated the audience. The outstanding performances by all artists brought vibrant energy to the program. The jam-packed audience was thoroughly enthralled, appreciating every aspect of Yakshagana. “Bappanadu Kshetra Mahathme” stood out as an unique and exceptional presentation, leaving a lasting impression on Yakshagana lovers in the UAE.
Senior members of the Yakshamitraru team present at the occasion included Chidananda Poojari, Satish Shetty, Daya Kirodian, Jayant Shetty, Ashok Thonse, Dinraj Shetty, Dinesh Poojari and Noel D’Almeida. Their presence added to the event’s significance and showcased the strong foundation of the group.
Looking ahead, the performances will be continued by Yakshamitraru’s students, guided by yaksha guru Kishore Gatty, who inspires many to embrace the rich folk art of coastal Karnataka.
The program was compered by Aarti Adiga and Rithesh Anchan, who also offered a vote of thanks.
Chidananda Poojary, the founder and conveyor of Yakshamitraru Dubai, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Yakshagana enthusiasts, sponsors, community leaders, volunteers, and the media for their unwavering support, which played a crucial role in the success of the event.