Purushottam Bilimaley’s remarks hurt Hindu sentiments, undermine Yakshagana’s sanctity: MLA Bharath Shetty

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov 21, 2025: He alleged that the Congress government in Karnataka has been continuously harming Hindu traditions, customs, and beliefs. “In the coastal region, Yakshagana has its own importance. We consider Yakshagana a divine art. When we see artistes donning the roles of deities, we naturally fold our hands in reverence. Yakshagana is performed with deep devotion, discipline, and dedication. The remarks made by Purushottam Bilimaley have hurt the sentiments of Yakshagana artistes,” he said.

Addressing a press conference at the district BJP office, he added that the chairperson of the Kannada Development Authority, Purushottam Bilimaley, has made objectionable comments about Yakshagana artistes. “He said he develops a ‘crush’ when he sees Yakshagana artistes in female roles. I will not comment on his personal thoughts, but it is wrong to belittle Yakshagana artistes with such statements. This seems like a deliberate conspiracy to spark controversy,” he alleged.

He questioned why other cultural enthusiasts in the region, who organise Yakshagana performances irrespective of political affiliation, have not spoken against such remarks. “Even Congress leaders organise Yakshagana shows. Why are they silent now?” he asked, demanding that the state government immediately remove Purushottam Bilimaley from his official position.

Yakshagana artiste Ashok Shetty of Sarpadi said that Bilimaley’s words have deeply hurt Yakshagana performers. “With such statements, he has thrown a bomb into the cultural sphere here. It has shaken the morale of artistes and caused emotional distress. His words may one day cost him his position. He should offer a public apology,” he said.

He added that the Yakshagana community has contributed immensely to the Kannada language, and it is inappropriate for the chairperson of the Kannada Development Authority to speak in such a manner.

BJP district spokesperson Arun G. Shet and Yakshagana artistes Satish and Ravi were also present at the press meet.