Mangalore, August 9, 2013: Stakeholders of more than a century-old Yakshagana troupes attached to the Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple are examining if overnight shows of five performing troupes of the temple can be cut short.

The Yakshagana troupes perform all-night shows on the deity of the temple, and are booked 10 years in advance by devotees who have taken a vow (harake).

Meeting

A preliminary meeting of the Kateel Durgaparameshwari Yakshagana Dashavatara Yakshagana Mandali was held at the temple on Monday in this regard. But it did not take any final decision as the temple’s administrator, who is also the Commissioner of Mangalore City Corporation, could not attend it due to a meeting he had in Bangalore, temple officials said.

The meeting on Monday followed a meeting of all stakeholders of Yakshagana troupes in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi at Dharmasthala on July 16 which discussed shortening of duration to attract new audience.

According to the website of the temple, managed by the Muzrai Department, the first Kateel mela was founded in the mid-19th century, the second mela in 1980s and the others subsequently due to increasing demand for hosting the performances.

Other logistics

The temple officials said that the meeting discussed security issues, too, because the five troupes carry the deities, which are decked with silver ornaments. They said security was not an issue if the show went on throughout the night because people will be around. But if shows were to end at midnight, their safety would have to be addressed. In addition, accommodation for artistes would have to be arranged.

Next season

The officials said that participants in the meeting said that it might not be able to reduce the duration of the shows for the 2013-14 touring season (December-May) but it could be implemented from the 2014-15 touring season.

The meeting decided to take a final decision after consulting the administrator of the temple.

Source: The Hindu, DT. August 9, 2013.