Veteran Yakshagana artist Sampaje Shenappa Rai passes away

Mangaluru: Sampajee Shenappa Rai, a veteran Yakshagana artist, passed away on Tuesday.

Rai had been ill for some time from age-related ailments and was living in his son’s house here.

Rai was born in Sambhaje in the Kodagu district. His father was also a Yakshagana artist.

He initially learned the art from his father and later from Kumbi Kannan. He was also trained in the Yakshagana make-up from Kuttyappa.

Rai performed Yakshagana for the first time at the age of 13 with the Ira Somanatheshwara Mela.

Later he also performed with the Venur, Irumailu, Sowkur, Chowdeshwari, Kateel, Hosanagar, Aedeneeru and Hanumagiri Melas.

Rai has also been a recipient of many awards including the State Award, Yakshagana Bailata Award, District Rajyotsava Award and Yakshamangala Award.