Noted Veeragase artiste Mahadevappa passes away

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Veeragase artiste Mahadevappa. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Noted Veeragase artiste Mahadevappa passed away on Thursday (June 11), said a statement from the Department of Kannada and Culture, Mandya.

A native of Nagamangala in Mandya district, Mahadevappa was a recipient of the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, the statement noted, while describing his demise as an irreparable loss to the field of folk arts.

Former Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy, Nagamangala MLA, has expressed profound grief and shock upon learning of Mahadevappa’s demise.

In a message, the MLA described Mahadevappa as a “distinguished artiste” who dedicated his life to the art of Veeragase.

“He was not only the pride of Mandya district but also a treasured asset of Karnataka’s folk art tradition. People across the State would be captivated by the sound of his damaruga drum, the grace of his movements, and the expressions on his face. His passing has created a void in the folk art world that can never be filled,” Mr. Cheluvarayaswamy said in a statement.

Mahadevappa trained hundreds of disciples in Veeragase, ensuring that the tradition was passed on to future generations. “His performances at the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, Hampi Utsav, and major folk festivals across the State had won the admiration of audiences everywhere,” the MLA added.

Mr. Cheluvarayaswamy also urged the government to provide all possible assistance to the artiste’s family and said a folk art award should be instituted in his name so that future generations can remember his legacy.