Udupi: A renowned tiger dance artist from Udupi was killed in a road accident on National Highway-66 near the Rudset Crossing at Herur in Brahmavar on Tuesday. The accident occurred when the car in which he was travelling reportedly crashed into the rear of a private bus after it braked suddenly.
The deceased has been identified as Manjunath (43), a resident of Lakshminagar, Santhekatte in Udupi.
Accident on return journey from Goa
According to police, Manjunath was returning to Udupi in an Innova along with four others after attending a meeting in Goa.
The accident took place near Rudset Crossing at Herur in Brahmavar when a private bus travelling towards Udupi allegedly applied sudden brakes. The Innova, which was following the bus, reportedly went out of control and rammed into the rear of the vehicle.
The impact of the collision left the front portion of the car severely damaged.
One killed, four escape with minor injuries
Manjunath sustained grievous injuries in the crash and died on the spot.
The four other occupants of the Innova suffered minor injuries. They received medical attention and are reported to be out of danger.
Police and local residents rushed to the spot soon after the accident and assisted in rescue operations.
Coastal region mourns noted tiger dance artist
Manjunath was a well-known figure in the coastal cultural community and had earned widespread recognition for his contribution to tiger dance (Pili Vesha), a traditional folk art closely associated with the Dasara celebrations in coastal Karnataka.
He was especially admired for his expertise in painting and decorating tiger dance performers, with his artistic work earning appreciation over the years. His untimely death has come as a shock to the cultural fraternity and admirers of the traditional art form.
Police register case
A case has been registered at the Brahmavar Police Station, and further investigation is under way to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the accident.
Police are expected to examine all aspects of the crash, including statements from those involved, as part of the investigation.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the importance of maintaining safe following distances and exercising caution on busy stretches of National Highway-66.