Mangaluru: Yakshagana postage stamp unveiled to showcase coastal tradition

Mangaluru: The coastal tradition of Yakshagana took center stage as Dakshina Kannada MP Nalin Kumar Kateel unveiled a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to this folk art form. The stamp, issued by the Indian Postal Department with sponsorship from MRPL (Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited), is poised to introduce Yakshagana to a global audience.

The unveiling ceremony was held at Mangaluru Town Hall on Sunday.

MP Nalin Kumar Kateel emphasized the significance of the Yakshagana postage stamp in showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the coastal region.

To spread the importance of Bhargava Shivaram Karanth and ‘Daivaradhane’ to the world, a special effort will be made to bring out a postage stamp in this regard as well, he said.

MLA D Vedavyas Kamath echoed similar sentiments, remarking on the fortune of Yakshagana being immortalized on postage stamps, thereby reaching audiences far and wide.

Renowned scholar Dr. M. Prabhakar Joshi drew parallels between postage stamps and embassies, underscoring their role in representing cultural identities. He expressed hope for Yakshagana to attain UNESCO status and highlighted the importance of programs under ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations).

The event saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Karnataka Circle Chief Postmaster General S. Rajendra Kamar, Mangaluru Mayor Sudheer Shetty Kannur, and Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation President Patla Satish Shetty, and South Zone Postmaster General L K Das.