top of page

An Appeal

 

For over nine decades, Sri Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali, Keremane (R.) has been dedicated to preserving, nurturing, and promoting the timeless tradition of Yakshagana—one of India's most vibrant classical theatre traditions. Established in 1934, the Mandali has grown from a traditional repertory into a nationally and internationally recognised cultural institution committed to performance, education, research, heritage preservation, and community engagement.

Today, under the leadership of Dr. Keremane Shivananda Hegde, the Mandali continues to expand its artistic and social initiatives while remaining deeply rooted in the values and traditions established by its founders.

As the first and only Yakshagana organisation to receive UNESCO–ICN accreditation, the Mandali carries a global responsibility to safeguard this living heritage for future generations.

Your support enables us to preserve an invaluable cultural legacy while creating meaningful opportunities for artists, students, researchers, and communities. We warmly invite you to become a partner in this journey.

 

How You Can Support

​

Yakshagana Performances

Support the presentation of authentic Yakshagana performances by sponsoring or organising Mandali productions, cultural events, educational performances, and international tours.

​

Workshops & Lecture Demonstrations

Help us introduce Yakshagana to students, artists, and audiences through workshops and lecture-demonstrations covering dance, music, acting, dialogue, costume, make-up, and the philosophy of the art form.

 

Shrimaya Yakshagana Kalakendra (Gurukula)

Established in 1986, our residential Gurukula at Gunavante follows the traditional Guru–Shishya system of learning. Students receive free professional training, accommodation, meals, and scholarships regardless of their economic background.

You may:

  • Sponsor a student's education.

  • Support meals, accommodation, costumes, and training.

  • Contribute towards the overall development and operation of the Gurukula.

 

Keremane Shambhu Hegde Rashtriya Natyotsava

Our annual national performing arts festival brings some of India's finest classical, folk, and tribal artists to the rural village of Gunavante. The festival creates a rare opportunity for local communities and young learners to experience India's diverse cultural traditions free of cost.

Your support helps us expand the festival and keep it accessible to everyone.

 

Awards & Institutional Development

Every year, the Mandali presents the Shri Keremane Shivarama Hegde Award and the Shri Gajanana Hegde Award to distinguished personalities who have made outstanding contributions to society, particularly in the fields of art and culture.

You may support these awards or contribute towards the Mandali's institutional development and long-term sustainability.

 

Āṭave Pāṭa

"Yakshagana as a colourful learning experience for young minds."

Āṭave Pāṭa introduces school children to India's cultural heritage through specially designed Yakshagana performances and interactive educational sessions. The programme has inspired thousands of students across Karnataka.

You can sponsor programmes in schools or educational institutions in your community.

 

BhāSam

Bhāgavatike Samshodhana Shibira

BhāSam is a research, documentation, and preservation initiative dedicated to the traditional oral singing heritage of Yakshagana. Through the Gurukula model, senior Bhagavatas mentor younger performers to preserve authentic musical traditions that are gradually disappearing.

Your support will help strengthen and expand this important heritage preservation project.

 

Māsada Āṭa

"Keeping ancient stories alive through monthly performances."

Māsada Āṭa presents rare and traditional Yakshagana episodes every month at the Yakshāngana campus with free public entry. The programme encourages artistic exploration while preserving lesser-known stories and strengthening community engagement with the art form.

You may sponsor a monthly performance, which can also be dedicated in memory of a loved one or on a special occasion.

 

Library, Museum & Cultural Infrastructure

The Mandali is developing a comprehensive Yakshagana Knowledge Centre that will include:

  • A specialised Yakshagana Library

  • Museum and archival collections

  • Documentation and research facilities

  • Renovated Rangamandira

  • Student hostel and training infrastructure

  • Performance and rehearsal spaces

Your support can help create a world-class centre for Yakshagana education, research, and cultural preservation.

 

Corpus Fund

A strong corpus fund ensures the Mandali's long-term sustainability and independence. Contributions to the corpus help support day-to-day operations, artist welfare, education, research, and future cultural initiatives while ensuring that this priceless heritage continues to flourish for generations to come.

 

Support the Mandali

Donations are accepted in favour of Sri Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali, Keremane (R.).

The Mandali is an FCRA-registered organisation, and eligible donations qualify for tax exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act.

​

Your contribution—whether large or small—directly supports the preservation of one of India's greatest living cultural traditions.

Together, let us ensure that the timeless legacy of Yakshagana continues to inspire generations across the world.

​

Please feel free to contact us for more details.

bottom of page