Date: 27.12.2024 – Friday – 9.05 – 9.50 a.m.

Speaker : Vidvan Gururaj Marpally with Prof Deepa Ganesh, accompanied by Vidvan Shashikiran Manipal Bhagavath (vocal), Vidvan Koodli Devadas Rao (Maddalam) and Vidvan Nagaraj Barkur (Chende)
Title : Staging Music: The unique case of Yakshagana

Abstract :

*Yakshagana: A Traditional Indian Singing Style*

Yakshagana, an ancient oral tradition, creates epic narratives like Bhagavata, Mahabharatha, and Ramayana into mesmerizing musical compositions called Prasangas (episodes). For 500 years, this art form has evolved, adapting to
modernization.

Originating in paddy fields illuminated by oil lamps, Yakshagana now thrives under tented performances, captivating audiences nightly.

Our focus lies in preserving traditional singing styles, threatened by commercialized film songs. Yakshagana's distinct Gamakas differ significantly from Hindustani and carnatic music.

*Philosophical Background and Unique Qualities of Yakshagana*

Yakshagana's rich heritage stems from its ancient roots. Originally, troupes were called "Mela," and performances, "Bayalata" (open field play). Sixty percent of the play featured glorious characters adorned in elaborate golden colour ornaments, resembling moving sculptures.

*Revitalizing Yakshagana's Ancient Aesthetic*

We aspire to collaborate with classical musicians to elevate Yakshagana's semi-classical music to classical status, ensuring its preservation.

*Preserving Yakshagana Music: A Legacy of Excellence*

The pioneering effort to preserve Yakshagana music was undertaken by Dr. Shivarama Karanth, who collected and defined 72 Ragas. Building upon this foundation, renowned violinist Dr. M. Rajagopacharya created notations for these Ragas, drawing from his heritage as a disciple of the illustrious violinist Choudayya.

Keremane Mahabala Hegde, a scholar of Hindustani music, breathed life into these notations, marking a significant milestone in Yakshagana music's journey toward independent recognition.

Subsequently, Hegde's son submitted 72 audio songs to the Karnataka Yakshagana Academy.

Gururaja Marpally's research highlighted Yakshagana music's distinctive style, rooted in Gamakas and the composition of Ragas tailored to lyrics.

*Our Mission:*

* To protect, classify, and promote Yakshagana's authenticity, emphasizing its distinctive characteristics and cultural significance.* To present Yakshagana music based on the composition of Ragas and Gamakas, honoring the rich legacy of this ancient Indian art form.

We are reaching out from "Shasthreeya Yakshamela Udupi" as we prepare to demonstrate traditional Yakshagana music in an academic session. We'd greatly appreciate your expert feedback.