Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Apr 24: People in general feel that coconut shells can best be used to fire the hearths. But artists know that even coconut shells can be converted into beautiful artefacts which enhance the looks of houses. The artist who has mastered this art is Venkataramana Bhat.

Bhat can transform a coconut shell into a mesmerizing piece of art within minutes. Bhat takes the credit for procuring places of pride for the coconut shells in showcases of houses instead of turning into ashes. Because of his skill, Bhat is popularly known with the name,'Chippina Bhatru'.

Venkataramana Bhat is 73 now. He is from Alevoor. He started to do art forms out of coconut shells after attaining the age of 64. Hundreds of his art forms have occupied positions of pride in art galleries across the world.

Bhat cuts or crafts the shells to the desired shape, gums them together as per necessity, and gives them beautiful colours. As college students are attracted towards his art form, he also goes to schools and colleges to hold workshops for the children. Huge Ganesha idols made by him are available for view at Alva's college.

Bhat is highly in demand. He has suffered heart attacks. Still, he has continued to create art forms whenever he has time. Even though he has three stents in his arteries, Bhat continues to serve the art form close to his heart. He deserves to be applauded for his conviction and skill.