Karkala: Young Arpitha Hegde has already created ripples in Yakshagana, a traditional theatre in Dakshina Kannada and surrounding districts. She will don the role of Jaganmohini in the fifth edition of Yakshagana play titled “Gandugali Devaraya.” Perdoor artistes will join her in the special show at Gandhi Maidan in Karkala on December 12.
Arpitha, a resident of Honnavar in Uttara Kannada is a refined artiste with extraordinary talent. Presently residing at Begur in Bengaluru, she is an integral part of Sirikalamela Amateur Artistes’ Association.
Daughter of Suresh Hegde and Sridevi, 22-year-old Arpitha has created context for four Yakshagana plays Poornachandra, Nagapanchami, Premasaaranga and Radhantharanga.
Drawn towards Yakshaghana during early childhood, Arpitha has earned a name for herself with her scintillating performances. She has even represented the state at AKKA (Association of Kannada Kootas in America) convention.She has performed in different roles and has appeared on stage more than 500 times to display versatility. Whenever she appears on stage with the anklets and traditional attire, her captivating moves which coincide with the beats of hand drums (maddale), harmonium and other instruments is a real treat for the spectators.
She has enacted roles of Lava-Kusha, Abhimanyu, Arjuna and Sri Krishna there by entering the traditional male bastion with her impressive dialogue delivery, dance and grace-filled moves to a separate genre of music and play.
Sirikalamela troupe comprises 50 top artistes in the field with Arpitha fairing in the top five.
Arpitha is also a recipient of Bharatha Rathna Bapuji Award and Kempegowda Award. She is not only a stage artiste but has created context for all performances. In the recently held cultural fest in China, Arpitha drew huge appreciation from international audience in her attempt to introduce Yakshagana to different parts of the world. The upcoming performance will be her fifth one based on her indigenous context.
The display will give viewers an opportunity to know more about Vijayanagara kindgom, mainly the role of King Krishna Devaraya and the events which lead to his rise. The epic performance with many twists and turns is bound to leave an impact on all those present on the night of December 12.
Yakshagana traditionally lasts the entire night where one can see artistes wearing resplendent costumes and head dresses with their faces painted.
