Yakshagana is a form of classical fork theatre which originated from Karnataka. It is most popular in the districts of Shimoga, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada in Karnataka, as well as Kasargod district of Kerala. Literally Yakshagana means song or 'gana' sung by a Yaksha. Yakshas were an exotic tribe who are mentioned in ancient Indian Literature. Yakshagana, like other art forms, cannot be neatly compartmentalized as classical or folk or rural art form. Rather it is an amalgamation of all these. Yakshagana art form is a product of Vaishava Bhakti Movement. The origins of Yakshagana can be traced as early as eleventh century A.D. There are about 30 professionals in a Yakshagana troupe it is usually performed in the twilight hours. Yakshagana is an amazing blend of Sanskrit drama, songs that are folksy in origin and the battles and acts of heroism from the great epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. The performers of Yakshagana wear colorful masks during their performance which turn their performance into a visual delight for the viewers.
Yakshagana needs UNESCO recognition : Dr. M. Veerappa Moily
Yakshagana is a performing art in which different channels of communication like dance, music, costumes and impromptu dialogues etc works together for a single effect. In fact coastal Karnataka has archived something special in all fields due to this art form. This century old art form now needs a recognition from UNESCO as ‘Intangible heritage of Human kind’ and Scholars must do research on this ancient art form’ Dr.M. Veerappa Moily, Honorable Union Minister for Company affairs told.