SHRIMAYA KALAKENDRA
YAKSHAGANA GURUKULA
Shrimaya Yakshagana Kalakendra is the residential Gurukula of Sri Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali, Keremane (R.), dedicated to the systematic training, preservation, and transmission of the living tradition of Yakshagana.
Established in 1986 by the visionary Late Shri Keremane Shambhu Hegde, the Kalakendra is situated within the beautiful Yakshāngana Campus at Gunavante, Honnavar Taluk, Karnataka. It continues the Keremane family's long-standing tradition of nurturing generations of Yakshagana artistes through the timeless Guru–Shishya Parampara.
Long before the formal establishment of the Kalakendra, members of the Keremane family welcomed aspiring artistes into their own home, creating a traditional Gurukula environment that has shaped many of today's leading Yakshagana performers. This spirit of generosity, discipline, and artistic excellence continues to define the institution.
Over the past four decades, the Kalakendra has trained more than 600 students from across India and abroad, many of whom have gone on to become distinguished performers, teachers, scholars, and cultural practitioners.
40
+
Years of Legacy
+
600
Alumni
5000
+
Performances by our
Students
The Gurukula Tradition
The Kalakendra follows the traditional residential Gurukula system, where students live, learn, and practice under the close guidance of experienced Gurus. This immersive environment enables students to absorb not only the technical aspects of Yakshagana but also its philosophy, discipline, values, and way of life.
Students receive comprehensive training in every aspect of Yakshagana, including:
-
Bhagavatike (Yakshagana Singing)
-
Dance (Nritya)
-
Abhinaya (Acting and Expression)
-
Dialogue Delivery
-
Percussion and Traditional Instruments
-
Costume and Make-up
-
Stagecraft and Performance Practice
The institution provides free education, accommodation, meals, and scholarships to deserving full-time students, ensuring that financial circumstances never become a barrier to learning this traditional art.
Students also benefit from regular exposure to the Mandali's professional performances, workshops, lecture-demonstrations, festivals, and interactions with senior artistes and scholars.
Courses Offered
Yearlong Residential Diploma
A comprehensive full-time residential programme covering all major aspects of Yakshagana. Students receive intensive practical and theoretical training and may subsequently specialise in disciplines such as performance, music, dance, or Bhagavatike.
Annual Foundation Course
An intensive 21-day introductory course, generally conducted during August, designed for beginners, enthusiasts, teachers, and performing artists wishing to understand the fundamentals of Yakshagana.
Weekend Training Programme
Regular weekend classes for children, youth, and working professionals who wish to learn Yakshagana while continuing their education or careers.
Research & Study
The Kalakendra welcomes artists, scholars, researchers, and students interested in studying Yakshagana and related performing arts. Participants have access to the Mandali's library, archives, performances, and educational activities.
Learning opportunities are open to individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds who possess a genuine interest in Yakshagana.
A Living Centre of Learning
More than a training institution, Shrimaya Yakshagana Kalakendra is a vibrant centre where performance, education, research, creativity, and cultural values come together. Every student becomes part of a living artistic lineage that has preserved and enriched Yakshagana for over nine decades, ensuring that this extraordinary tradition continues to flourish for generations to come.
For admission details, workshops, research opportunities, or short-term programmes, please contact us.