Yakshagana Season 2025–26 Begins with Two New Troupes Joining Coastal Circuit

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov 9, 2025: The coastal region has come alive with the rhythmic beats of chende and maddale as Yakshagana melas (performing troupes) embark on their annual tour for the 2025–26 season. This year’s touring season, which runs from November to May, sees the addition of two new melas, further enriching the cultural landscape of coastal Karnataka.

The newly launched troupes - Kukke Shree Subrahmanya Swamy Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali and the seventh troupe of the century-old Durgaparameshwari Prasadita Dashavatara Yakshagana Mandali of Kateel - join the existing network of over 40 melas that travel across villages and towns, staging all-night performances that blend art, devotion, and tradition.

A mela tour is more than a cultural event - it fuels the local economy by engaging artists, tailors, carpenters, caterers, and a host of other professionals who support the shows.

The Sri Jnanashakthi Subrahmanya Swamy Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali of Pavanje began its tour on November 2, while the Dharmasthala Manjunatheswara Krupaposhita Yakshagana Mandali, one of the oldest troupes in the region, commenced performances on November 5. The Dharmasthala troupe will perform in the temple town until November 22 before moving on to other venues.

Meanwhile, the Bappanadu Sri Durgaparameshwari Krupaposhita Dashavatara Yakshagana Mandali of Mulky opened its season on Sunday, November 9. Most other troupes are set to begin their tours in phases before mid-December.

S. A. Varkady, convener of the new Kukke Subrahmanya mela, said the troupe will start its tour on December 5, with 58 shows already booked. “The troupe has around 40 members, including artists and support staff,” he added.

All seven troupes of the Kateel mela will commence their tours from November 16, marking the full swing of the Yakshagana season across the coastal belt.

With the launch of new troupes and renewed enthusiasm among artists and audiences alike, the 2025–26 Yakshagana season promises to be a vibrant celebration of Karnataka’s living theatre tradition.