| CHALLENGES IN DOCUMENTING THE LEGACY OF YAKṢAGĀNA ARTIST V.M. JOSHI |
| This paper examines the life and artistic contributions of Sri Vighneshwar Mahabaleshwar Joshi (1916–1983), widely known as "Actor Joshi," a prominent figure in the traditional Indian theater form, YAKṢAGĀNA. With a career spanning thirty-five years, Joshi's early immersion in Vedic studies and interactions with scholars in GÅkarṇa significantly influenced his development as a distinguished VÄgmÄ« (orator) in Yaká¹£agÄna performances. Beginning his theatrical journey at the age of 11 with the Ishashraya Nataka Company, he later collaborated with esteemed drama troupes, including Garuda SadÄshivaraya NÄtaka Company, Gubbi Veeranna, Shastri Company, and the SÄhitya Sevaka Sangha of GÅkarṇa. Under the mentorship of renowned artists such as Moodkani Narayana Hegde, Murur Devaru Hegde, and Keremane Shivaram Hegde, Joshi mastered the fundamentals of Yaká¹£agÄna, particularly the Baá¸Ä Baá¸agu style, emphasizing adherence to Å›ÄstrÄ«yate (classical rigor). His unique approach to dance, characterized by original choreography and personalized makeup for each character, set him apart in both strÄ« vÄ“Å›a (female roles) and puruá¹£a vÄ“Å›a (male roles). Joshi's performances were marked by a clear distinction between MÄtu (dialogues) and Naá¹ane (acting), achieving remarkable coordination between ná¹›tta (pure dance) and bhÄva (expression). Throughout his career, he portrayed approximately 28 vÄ“Å›a-s (roles) across various melÌ¥a-s (troupes) and established his own troupe, the Sri BhadrakÄlÌ¥i KrÌ¥pÄpoá¹£ita Yaká¹£agÄṇa Maṇá¸ali in GÅkarṇa. Despite his significant contributions, there is a notable lack of documentation, posing challenges to preserving and studying his legacy. This paper aims to explore Joshi's artistic innovations, character portrayals, and the obstacles faced in chronicling his impact on Yaká¹£agÄna. |
| Author: Ms. Pallavi G Gayatri
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Submitted on : 16-Sep-2025
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Arts : /Theater/Yakshagana |
| Journal ID : 5862-773-5360
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| Views: 54/ Downloads :0 |
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