Wed Nov 19 16:44:13 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

The Hindu: Kannada Authority Head’s Comments on Yakshagana Artists Spark Outrage

MANGALURU, November 19, 2025 – Purushottama Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, is facing criticism after stating that homosexuality is prevalent among Yakshagana (a traditional theatre form) artists. His comments, made during a program at Mysuru University on Tuesday, claimed the practice was common due to performers spending months away from home, and that “stree veshadharis” (men playing women’s roles) face exploitation.

Bilimale has since expressed regret, claiming his words were taken out of context. However, the damage appears to be done. Talluru Shivarama Shetty, chairman of the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy, publicly rebuked Bilimale, stating he should have refrained from making such a statement, especially at a time when Yakshagana is gaining prominence. Former Minister and Udupi MLA V. Sunil Kumar has gone further, calling for Bilimale’s dismissal, deeming his statement an “insult” to Yakshagana theatre and its artists. The controversy continues to unfold, raising questions about cultural representation and responsible public discourse.

Summary of the Original Text:

The original text is a news article from The Hindu e-paper dated November 19, 2025. It reports on a controversy sparked by comments made by Purushottama Bilimale, the Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, regarding homosexuality among Yakshagana artists. The article details his statements, his subsequent apology, and the reactions of other officials, including the chairman of the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy and a former Minister, who are critical of Bilimale’s remarks.

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