Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Nov 26: Condemning the humiliation meted to Yakshagana Bhagavatha Patla Sathish Shetty, his supporters staged a protest at Nehru Maidan on Monday, November 25.

It may be recalled that Shetty was allegedly not allowed to perform by the convener of Kateel Sri Durgaparameshwari Prasaditha Yakshagana Mandali, popularly known as the Kateel Mela. A video clip of Shetty leaving the stage after being insulted is being widely shared on social media.

Addressing the protesters, Kemaru Swamiji called the humiliation meted to the artist, an insult to the Yakshagana art form. “The temple management should resolve the matter. Patla Sathish Shetty is one of the renowned artistes. Not only has he established himself in the art form but is known for giving helping hand to other artistes through his foundation,” he said.

Yakshagana artiste P Rajaram Bhat said," This is not the first time Patla Sathish Shetty was insulted. He has been humiliated earlier. Patla Sathish Shetty is always in the forefront. He helps artistes who are struggling and need help to establish. Some people have turned his rival, only because they cannot stand his achievement and popularity. It is because of this, Patla Sathish Shetty has to face insults. Kateel temple management should apologize and take him back to the mela with all due respect.”

According to sources, the management is upset that Shetty had supported the artistes who were expelled for opposing the management committee’s decision a few years ago.

Meanwhile, Shetty told media that he has not been given an explanation on why he cannot perform and added that that the insult to Ranga (stage) is equal to death.

Patla Sathish Shetty’s supporters Savanur Seetharam Shetty, Sanjay Kumar Shetty, Radhakrishna, Ravindra Shetty Bajegoli, convenor Biruver Kudla, Deepu Shettigar, Sahana Kunder and others were present at the protest.