Mangaluru: Muslim Yakshagana artist Arshiya Khan shines as Goddess Sri Devi, celebrates religious harmony

Mangaluru: Muslim Yakshagana artist Arshiya Khan shines as Goddess Sri Devi, celebrates religious harmony

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Oct 21, 2026: A remarkable example of religious harmony unfolded on the Yakshagana stage in coastal Karnataka when Arshiya Khan, a Muslim woman artist, portrayed the eight-armed Goddess Sri Devi during a performance at the Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple in Mangaluru on October 20.

Arshiya brought the divine form of the goddess, depicted holding weapons in her eight hands and destroying evil while protecting devotees, to life in the Yakshagana prasanga Sampoorna Sri Devi Mahatme. Her captivating performance drew the attention of art lovers and audiences.

Her portrayal was not just a testament to her artistic talent but also a reflection of the region’s inclusive cultural traditions, where art transcends religious boundaries.

Drawn to Yakshagana at an Early Age

Arshiya Khan, also known by her stage name Tanu Vitla, hails from Mada near Vitla in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district. She developed a deep interest in Yakshagana during childhood after watching performances held in her neighbourhood.

She began learning the traditional art form at the age of nine while studying in Class 4. Her father, Abdul Khader, a retired deputy tahsildar, and her mother, Mumtaz, encouraged and supported her artistic aspirations.

What began as a childhood passion has grown into a journey spanning 12 years of stage experience.

Trained under Yakshagana guru Kadri Ramesh Bhat, Arshiya is actively associated with the Kadali Kala Kendra located on the premises of the Kadri temple.

She has previously performed several roles in the popular Devi Mahatme prasanga, including the demon characters Shumbha and Nishumbha, as well as Aadimaye and Sri Devi. Her latest portrayal of the eight-armed goddess marks a significant milestone in her artistic journey.

Observing Strict Vows for the Goddess’s Role

Portraying a sacred character such as Sri Devi in Yakshagana requires special preparation and dedication. In keeping with the sanctity of the role, Arshiya followed a strict vegetarian diet and observed religious vows before the performance.

She considers the opportunity a blessing from Ullalthi Durgaparameshwari and has expressed gratitude for the affection and encouragement she receives from art lovers, hoping for their continued support and blessings.

Special Performance During Kadali Dashaha

As part of the Dasara celebrations, Kadali Kala Kendra organised the 14th edition of Kadali Dashaha, a 10-day Yakshagana festival, at the Rajangana of Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple from October 11 to 20.

The concluding day’s programme on October 20 featured Sampoorna Sri Devi Mahatme. Artists from renowned Tenkuthittu Yakshagana troupes, including Kateel and Pavanje, participated in the performance.

Arshiya’s appearance as Sri Devi added a special highlight to the concluding show. 

Coastal Karnataka’s Art Transcends Religious Boundaries

Yakshagana is an integral part of life and culture in coastal Karnataka. The traditional theatre form brings people together across caste, religion, language and social backgrounds.

The region is also known for the Bappanadu Kshetra Mahatme, a popular Yakshagana prasanga celebrating the significance of the Bappanadu Durgaparameshwari Temple, which is regarded as a symbol of Hindu-Muslim harmony.

Artists from the Muslim community have already made their mark in both Tenkuthittu and Badaguthittu styles of Yakshagana. Against this backdrop, Arshiya Khan’s portrayal of Sri Devi has attracted particular attention.

Her artistic journey conveys a powerful message: art knows no religious boundaries, and talent is not limited by caste or community.

By shining as the eight-armed goddess on stage, Arshiya did more than portray a mythological character. Her performance celebrated the cultural richness of Yakshagana and the longstanding tradition of communal harmony in coastal Karnataka.