Yakshagana: Tradition vs. Modernity | Art & Culture

Yakshagana: Balancing Tradition and Innovation in a Timeless art Form

A vibrant dance-drama tradition originating in coastal Karnataka, Yakshagana is navigating a complex path between preserving its rich heritage and embracing contemporary relevance. From its roots in villages to performances on international stages, the art form-a captivating blend of dance, music, and improvised dialog-is undergoing a significant evolution, sparking debate among practitioners about its future.

Published July 4, 2025

A History Rooted in Storytelling

For decades, Yakshagana has been a cornerstone of cultural life in the Udupi, Shivamogga, and Chikkamagalurur districts of Karnataka, and also the Kasargod region of Kerala. Traditionally performed by men in open fields from dusk till dawn, the art form’s elaborate costumes, headgear, and stage structures were integral to its immersive storytelling. However, the landscape of Yakshagana is shifting. Performances now range from brief five-minute showcases to extended five-hour productions in air-conditioned auditoriums, and increasingly, women are taking center stage.

One of the earliest adaptations came in 1934, when a local troupe leader introduced time-limited shows, a departure from the all-night performances of the past.

Did you know?

Yakshagana costumes are not just visually stunning,they are also deeply symbolic. Each color,ornament,and design element tells a story,representing the character’s role,personality,and origin within the narrative.

The Rise of Contemporary Narratives

Perhaps the most significant change in recent years has been the broadening of subject matter. Traditionally focused on the epics of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, Yakshagana troupes are now experimenting with narratives drawn from popular culture and contemporary life.

“Instead of a mythological story, a Yakshagana performance might center around Bahubali with elements from contemporary life,” explains a trained yakshagana artiste and theater maker. “Or even if they use stories from the epics, they are contemporized.” This shift, she believes, is crucial for the art form’s survival. “I believe a form that listens to the contemporary beat of today will not die. With changes in society, Yakshagana performances are improvised through its speech and narratives.”

Explore Further

Interested in seeing how Yakshagana is evolving? Search online for modern Yakshagana performances that incorporate contemporary themes and stories. Many troupes are sharing thier work through video platforms, making it accessible to a global audience.

A Generational Divide

however, not all practitioners agree with this approach. A veteran Yakshagana artiste from the Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali troupe voices strong reservations. “This attempt to contemporize disrespects the conventional art form,” he asserts. “There are troupes which see this art form as an industry, they look at ticket sales rather than creativity or original ideas.” he points out that even repeated performances of classic stories continue to draw audiences, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the traditional form. “Even if a performance is repeated at the same place with the same story and cast, people will still watch it. That is because even though the story is the same, the dance and speech will be improvised.”

The Power of Improvisation

Improvisation is a key element of Yakshagana. While the core story remains consistent,performers have the freedom to add their own interpretations,humor,and social commentary,making each performance unique and relevant to the audience.

Finding a Middle Ground

The question of whether tradition and the contemporary can coexist is at the heart of the debate.an artiste and art curator with Suarita Arts Collective believes a balanced approach is possible. Introduced to the art form by her father, the founder of a Yakshagana school established in 1980, she advocates for innovation within respectful boundaries.

“Most of our work is based on traditional texts but 20% of our performances bring innovation without disrespecting the art form,” she explains. “Some of our performances deal with contemporary issues such as dowry, HIV, the right to vote and to education.” She emphasizes the importance of connecting with modern audiences, arguing that “If we don’t tell new stories now, you won’t always be able to connect with more people and eventually, the art form will die out.”

The Importance of Rigorous Training

The debate extends to the qualifications of performers.The art curator stresses the need for formal instruction, stating that individuals claiming to be Yakshagana artistes without undergoing rigorous training are “disrespectful to those who have spent years training.” A senior artiste echoes this sentiment, comparing learning Yakshagana to “learning a new language.You have to spend time to understand its roots, stories and practices.”

Furthermore, certain modern interpretations are deemed unacceptable. The art curator specifically cites the pairing of film songs with Yakshagana performances and the practice of having a fully costumed Yakshagana artiste walk between a bride and groom as inappropriate.

Despite the embrace of new narratives, the art curator underscores the continued importance of performing traditional texts. “No matter how relevant contemporary stories are, we still need to perform traditional texts because wisdom and knowledge is passed on through them.” Ultimately, she believes that promoting Yakshagana requires a collective effort to understand and uphold what constitutes a genuine performance.

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The Art of Costumes and Character

As the narrative of yakshagana evolves, so too must the visual language that tells its stories. Costumes, makeup, and headgear are not mere embellishments; they are integral components of the performance, communicating character, status, and the vrey essence of the tale being told. The artistry involved is a notable part of the tradition, adding to the overall experience for the audience. The intricate details offer insight into the roles of each character.

The costumes are a visual feast.The colors are symbolic, with specific hues representing particular characters, moods, and even their moral standing. For instance, a warrior might wear crimson, while a demon could be adorned in black or dark green. ornaments,from the elaborate headgear known as “Kirita” to the detailed jewellery and facial makeup,further define the character. The design of the costumes and their components are crucial to the storytelling.

Dressing the Legends

Characters of the epics, such as Ravana or Arjuna, are instantly recognizable by their unique costumes. According to scholars of Yakshagana, the meticulous attention to detail in these outfits reflects the importance of visually representing the gods, demons, and heroes of the stories [citation needed].

The crafting of these costumes is a skill passed down through generations. the making of a Yakshagana costume demands deep knowledge of the art form’s conventions; each element is carefully constructed by specialized artisans. the materials used have also evolved, but the designs and symbolic significance remain constant.

Behind the Scenes: A Visual breakdown

• Headgear (Kirita): Crown-like structures, often elaborate, identifying the character’s status and role.
• facial makeup: Colors and patterns that highlight physical characteristics, and emotional states (like fury or sorrow).
• costume Accessories: Jewelry, armlets, and other adornments that reflect the character’s wealth, power, and affiliation.
• dresses and Fabrics: Specific fabrics and designs are used for different characters and situations.

What is the symbolism behind Yakshagana costumes? The colors, ornaments, and designs represent characters’ roles, personalities, and origins, creating a visual language that enhances the narrative. In the age of fast-paced entertainment, the commitment to customary costuming distinguishes Yakshagana.

How are Yakshagana costumes made? The craftsmanship of Yakshagana costumes is a specialized art, employing time-honored techniques passed down through generations of artisans. They require extensive skill, and a deep understanding of the art form’s visual language.

Preserving the Craft: The Future of Yakshagana Costumes

With the evolution of narratives and performance spaces, preserving the integrity of Yakshagana costumes becomes increasingly significant.

Training in costume making faces several challenges. Younger generations may be less interested in pursuing this time-consuming craft. Furthermore, as the art form travels beyond its traditional spaces, ensuring that costumes are appropriately maintained and presented is vital. Proper storage,preservation techniques,and accurate representation are essential to passing this tradition on.

Several initiatives seek to keep the traditions of costume making going. workshops and training programs help educate and engage young artisans. Performances, exhibitions, and online platforms showcase the intricacy and beauty of costume design.