CHANDIGARH: Bringing the vibrant coastal heritage of Karnataka to the City Beautiful, the Chandigarh Administration organised a spectacular Yakshagana cultural programme, “Shri Devi Mahatme,” at the Tagore Theatre in Sector 18. The grand event was successfully held under the government’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative.
Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of U.T. Chandigarh, graced the cultural evening as the Chief Guest. The event also saw the distinguished presence of Shri Hiriadka Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh, and Shri K. A. P. Sinha, Chief Secretary, Punjab, who attended as special guests, alongside several other senior officers of the Chandigarh Administration.
A Captivating Hindi Adaptation
Presented by the esteemed Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation from Mangaluru, the programme featured highly skilled artists who travelled specifically to perform for the city. Setting a deeply spiritual tone ahead of the upcoming Navratri festival, the performers brought to life the Mahishasur Vadh episode, vividly depicting Goddess Durga’s ultimate victory over the demon Mahishasur through mesmerising dance and powerful storytelling.
A major highlight of the evening was the unique adaptation of the traditional Yakshagana play into Hindi. This thoughtful translation enabled the Chandigarh audience to connect intimately with the storyline while experiencing the rich, authentic traditions and theatricality of Yakshagana. The expressive performances, combined with elaborate traditional costumes, towering headgear, and rhythmic live music, completely captivated those present.
Fostering Regional Bonds and Cultural Exchange
Addressing the gathering, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria highly praised the artists for their dedication and their spectacular performance on stage.
“This play beautifully depicts the timeless message of the victory of good over evil. I deeply appreciate the artists for specially adapting this grand production into Hindi, making it accessible and deeply resonant for our audience here in Chandigarh.”
The Administrator further emphasized that such dynamic cultural exchanges, promoted heavily under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, play a vital role in strengthening the bonds between different states and regions. He noted that these events significantly promote a deeper, unifying appreciation of India’s immensely diverse cultural heritage, expressing his hope that many more such diverse plays and cultural programmes will be organised across Chandigarh in the near future.
