Date:22/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/22/stories/2006092222300200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Reviving folk art forms

REVIVING FOLK art forms, traditionally associated with major festivals like Navarartri is the goal of Karnataka Kala Darshini, a Yakshagana and folk arts troupe. It has been graded by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and for the ensuing Dasara, will present "Chikkamela" and "Hoovina Kolu."

While a group of Yakshagana artists moving from house to house and presenting dramatic scenes, usually from the epics, is known as "Chikkamela," "Hoovina Kolu" is performed by child artists.

They go from door to door and in the process get some real practice in the art form they are learning. Those interested in encouraging them can call 23206895 or 9844032972.

Raghava M.