Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Jan 13: This year's Kundeshwar Samman award, which is given yearly by the Kundeshwara Kshetra of Hirgan in the taluk of Karkala, in conferred on Yakshagauru Kadri Ramachandra Bhat.
The award will be given on the night of January 21 according to a statement given by Jitendra Kundeshwara convener of cultural programme. During this programme, 'Bhargava Vijaya' Yakshagana play also will be presented under the leadership of Yakshadhruva Patla Sathish Shetty. In addition, 'Panodithundu' Tulu drama will be played by Sindhoora Kalavidaru. On January 22, the Varshpavadi festival will take place.
Kadri Ramachandra Bhat is responsible for creating interest of Yakshagana art in the children of Kadri area. Members of Bala, Mahila and Yakhakoota have given Yakshagana performance at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The credit of this goes entirely to Kadri Ramachandra Bhat.
Kadri Ramachandra Bhat is a unique personality, who finds happiness in the achievement of his students. Those who have got trained under Bhat are shining in drama art also. Sooraj, who is a student of Ramachandra Bhat is known all over Karnataka for his rib-tickling comedy in the TV soap 'Comedy Kiladigalu'.
Ranjitha, who is a student as well as daughter of Kadri Ramachandra Bhat is an all-rounder in the field of Yakshagana. Rakshita Elluru, one more daughter of Ramachandra Bhat had performed with highly respected artiste like Soori Kumeru Govinda Bhat and got appreciation for her performance.
Ramachandra Ellur has also trained people in Yakshagan in outstation states also. He trains people in traditional style. Ramachandra also gives priority to traditional style of dancing.
The whole family of Ramachandra Bhat is involved in the art of Yakshagana. His wife Vanita Elluru is also a famous Yakshagana artiste. Ramachandra Bhat himself trained his wife. His disciples include those who work in coroporates, religious leaders, senior and junior journalists.
Kumble Sundar Rao had once said in a meeting at Ellur that Ramachandra Bhat has spread the fragrance of Yakshagana in various places.
Elluru Ramachandra Bhat has provided free space inside his house for Krishnaraja Nandalike, who is training students in Yakshagana Chende Maddale, classical music, Mridangam and Bhagavathike classes.