Fri Sep 12 13:25:08 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Mangaluru International Airport has unveiled a large granite statue of a Yakshagana performer in its departure area. The statue, created by sculptor Himanshu Kumar, aims to celebrate and integrate local art into the airport’s public spaces, providing visitors with a glimpse into the cultural heritage of coastal Karnataka. The airport already features other local art installations representing the area.

**News Article:**

**Mangaluru Airport Unveils Massive Yakshagana Statue, Showcasing Coastal Karnataka’s Cultural Heritage**

*Mangaluru, India – September 12, 2025* – Passengers departing from Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) will now be greeted by a striking symbol of the region’s rich artistic traditions. The airport unveiled a 10.25-foot granite statue of a Yakshagana performer today, as part of its ongoing initiative to integrate local art into the airport’s public spaces.

The imposing four-tonne statue, mounted on a 3-foot pedestal, depicts a youthful Yakshagana performer with a calm demeanor. Yakshagana is a traditional folk-art form known for its elaborate costumes, expressive dance, and mythological storytelling.

“This statue is a tribute to the vibrant artistic heritage of this region,” an airport spokesperson stated in a release. “We hope it will provide travelers with a ringside view into the unique cultural traditions of coastal Karnataka and create a more immersive and memorable airport experience.”

The artwork was created by Himanshu Kumar, a sculptor from Bihar, who now resides in Karnataka and leads Akrathi Shilpa Kala, a studio known for preserving Indian art forms. Kumar and his team completed the statue in 64 days.

The Yakshagana statue is the latest addition to MIA’s collection of local art installations. The airport already features a lenticular wall depicting Mangaluru’s fishing harbor, along with figurines representing fishermen, ‘pili vesha’ (tiger dance), Yakshagana performers in the domestic arrival hall, and ‘kambala’ (buffalo race) on the lower ground floor. This installation shows MIA’s dedication to promoting the local artistic traditions.

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