One of the theatre forms generally described as folk but possessing a strong classical connection is the Yakshagana. It is a typical folk form of drama in this region, just as Kathakali is in neighbouring Kerala. Yakshagana is a commonly staged in the paddy fields at night and the themes are the excerpts from Ramayana, Mahabharata and mythological tales from the Puranas. Yakshagana enjoys immense popularity and its exponents are honored just as great stage artistes are.

Although the name signifies the music of celestial beings, Yakshagana is an amalgam of the sky with the earth. Here both mystery and robustness about this form in which singing and drumming merge with dancing, and words with gestural interpretation, and players clad in costumes of striking colour and contours. It is the cherished cultural possession of the coastal districts of Karnataka.



Surya is trained under Guru Sri.Chandrashekar Navada K ,Sri.Purushothama Rao P.

* Experience for more than 17 years

* 1 place in-group competition in Mangalore Town Hall. Held by ‘Samskara Barathi’.

* Performed more than 300 shows with NANDANESHWARA YAKSHAGANA MAKKALA MELA and with other Amateur Troupes.

* Awarded “B” grade artist by song&drama division Govt. of Karnataka

* Conducted 10 days workshop and Choreographed a special feature for the children in Washington DC USA -2007