Sun Nov 09 11:22:25 UTC 2025: ## Coastal Karnataka Gears Up for Vibrant Yakshagana Season with New Troupes and a Digital Push
Mangaluru, November 9, 2025 – The coastal belt of Karnataka is abuzz with excitement as the annual Yakshagana season officially kicks off, bringing with it a surge of regional economic activity and a celebration of the traditional theatre form. This year’s season, running from November to May, sees the addition of two new “melas” (performing troupes): Kukke Shree Subrahmanya Swamy Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali and the seventh troupe of the century-old Durgaparameshwari Prasadita Dashavatara Yakshagana Mandali of Kateel.
These new additions join over 40 existing troupes, ensuring a rich and diverse program of performances across the region. The Sri Jnanashakthi Subrahmanya Swamy Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali of Pavanje commenced its tour on November 2nd, while the Dharmasthala Manjunatheswara Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali began its tour on November 5th.
“A tour of the ‘melas’ contributes to the circulation of regional economy as an night performance involves team work by different stakeholders, in addition to carrying forward the heritage of Yakshagana theatre.”
Interestingly, Yakshagana continues to attract individuals from various professions, with many graduates and postgraduates participating as part-time artists. The shift from all-night performances to shorter shows, running from 6:30 p.m. to midnight, allows these professionals to balance their day jobs with their passion for the art form. Avinash Baipadittaya, a former journalist, exemplified this dedication by leaving his career to join the Kateel mela as a ‘maddale’ player.
The Yakshagana community is also embracing modern technology, with troupes like the Kateel mela organizing a convention of social media influencers on November 11th. These influencers will stream performances live and share information online, expanding the reach of Yakshagana to a wider audience.
Furthermore, the Kateel mela is taking steps to preserve its history, holding a workshop to record its legacy on November 10th and a convention of artists from all seven of its troupes on November 13th.
The annual switching of artists between troupes remains a hot topic among fans, with social media buzzing with discussions on how these changes will impact the strengths and weaknesses of each mela. As the troupes embark on their tours, the coastal region anticipates another vibrant season of Yakshagana, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka.
First Piper 