Karnataka Yakshagana Academy Announces 2025 Awards for Excellence

The Karnataka Yakshagana Academy has revealed the recipients of several prestigious awards for 2025, recognizing significant contributions to the traditional art form of Yakshagana. The awards presentation will occur on December 21, 2025, at the Shri Janardhana and Mahakali Temple in Ambalpady, located in the Udupi district.

The academy’s selections include five individuals receiving the Honour Award, ten artists honored with the Yakshasiri Annual Award, one recipient of the Karki Hiriyara Paramayya Humourist Endowment Award, and three authors of the Annual Book Prize. Each award aims to celebrate the dedication and achievements of those who have significantly impacted the Yakshagana community.

Honour Award Recipients

The Honour Awards for 2025 will be presented to:

– Ranjala Ramakrishna Rao: A senior Yakshagana writer and researcher recognized for his contributions to folk literature and textual documentation.
– Vishnu Achari Balakooru: A veteran Mukha Kalakar and artisan celebrated for his mastery in traditional Yakshagana mask-making.
– D Manohar Kumar: A senior Bhagavatha with over four decades of experience in the Badagu Thittu tradition.
– Murali Kadekar: A distinguished Chende artist and trainer connected with several leading troupes.
– Ramesh: A Yakshagana Mummela artist known for his versatile performances in Stree Vesha and supporting roles.

Each Honour Award recipient will receive Rs 50,000, along with a citation, memento, certificate, garland, shawl, turban, and traditional felicitation items.

Yakshasiri Annual Award Winners

The Yakshasiri Annual Awards will be awarded to:

– Dasanadka Rama Kulal: A senior Maddale artist.
– Rajeev Shetty Hosangadi: A Bhagavatha noted for his clarity of rendition.
– Dasappagowda Gerukatte: A Chende performer with extensive service in touring troupes.
– Srinivas Salyan: A Mummela artist specializing in traditional heroic roles.
– Sadashiva Kulal Venur: An organizer and cultural promoter within the Yakshagana community.
– Bellare Manjunath Bhat: A young Bhagavatha recognized for his melodious singing.
– Keshava Shaktinagar: An experienced Mummela artist.
– Lakshmangowda Belal: A Chende artist associated with rural troupes.
– Sanna Mallayya: A senior performer known for his roles as Hanumana and in comedic performances.
– A G Nagaraju: A Maddale artist and trainer.

Each Yakshasiri award carries a cash prize of Rs 25,000, alongside a citation, memento, and certificate.

The Karki Hiriyara Paramayya Humourist Endowment Award has been conferred upon Devadas Rao Kodli, a prominent Yakshagana comedian active in coastal troupes. This award includes a cash prize of Rs 25,000 and traditional honors.

The Annual Book Prize for 2024 has been awarded to three notable publications:

– Dasharoopakagala Dashavatara by Ashoka Hasyagara
– Atada Mela by Keremane Shivananda Hegde
– Dodda Samagara Nalmoga (edited volume) published by Manipal Universal Press

Each book prize recipient will also receive Rs 25,000 and a citation.

The Karnataka Yakshagana Academy’s awards serve as a testament to the vibrant artistic heritage of Yakshagana and the individuals who contribute to its preservation and growth.