Yakshagana Artiste Vidyadhara Rao Jalavalli Honored with ‘Balkur Yaksha Kusuma’ Award
Mangaluru, March 12, 2025: Renowned Badagutittu Yakshagana artist Vidyadhar Rao Jalavalli expressed gratitude for the love and inspiration he has received through his journey in Yakshagana. “Yaksharanga has given me the love of admirers and the spirit of innovation. These are unforgettable moments,” he said after receiving the ‘Balkur Yaksha Kusuma’ award at a Yakshagana event held at Kudroli Bhagavathi Temple. The program was organized by Balkur Yaksha Kusuma Charitable Trust (R), Mangaluru, and Rangasthala Mangaluru (R).
Speaking at the event, Vidyadhar Rao paid tribute to his father, Jalavalli Venkatesh Rao, for his significant contributions to Yakshagana. He emphasized the responsibility of artists to uphold the traditions set by their predecessors rather than merely imitating them. “Yakshagana is a field of immense learning and practice. We chose Yakshagana as our profession, but the fact that we have gained a vast audience reflects its power. This award is proof that we have received the blessings of the goddess of art,” he remarked.
Expressing pride in being the son of a celebrated artist, he pledged to elevate his father’s legacy through sincere efforts. “There is still much to achieve. The hard work of senior Yakshagana artists has paved the way for us, and today, we are reaping the benefits of their dedication,” he noted. Accepting the honor, he said, “The Yaksha Kusuma award serves as a reminder that I have much more to accomplish in my Yakshagana journey.”
The event was attended by prominent figures, including senior chartered accountant S.S. Nayak, Rangasthala Mangaluru representatives S.L. Nayak and Dinesh Pai, Dr. Annayya Kulal, President of Puttanna Kulal Foundation, and agriculture awardee Krishnaraja Balkur. Ranjith Kumar Vakvadi, Shripathi Acharya, and other dignitaries were also present.
Karunakar Balkur, President of Yaksha Kusuma Trust, delivered the introductory address, commending Vidyadhar Rao’s contributions to Yakshagana.
Following the felicitation, the event featured a Yakshagana performance by the renowned Sri Kshetra Hattiyangadi Mela. The troupe presented ‘Gadayuddha and Raja Rudrakopa,’ with Vidyadhar Rao captivating the audience with his portrayal of the Kaurava character in ‘Gadayuddha.’
