Sri Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali has a rich and illustrious history spanning over nine decades. Established in 1934 by the renowned Yakshagana maestro and National Awardee Late Keremane Shivarama Hegde, the Mandali has grown into one of India's most respected and enduring traditional Yakshagana institutions.

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The troupe derives its name from Lord Mahaganapati of Idagunji, the family's revered deity, whose temple is located near Gunavante in Honnavar Taluk, Karnataka. Keremane is both the family's surname and the name of their ancestral place in Gunavante, where generations of this distinguished family have dedicated their lives to preserving and enriching the Yakshagana tradition.

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Since its inception, the Mandali has been presenting episodes from the great Indian epics—the Ramayana and the Mahabharata—with an unwavering commitment to authenticity, artistic excellence, and the preservation of Yakshagana's classical traditions. While remaining deeply rooted in tradition, the troupe has continually embraced thoughtful innovation, ensuring that the art form remains vibrant and relevant without compromising its cultural integrity.

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Late Sri Keremane Shambhu Hegde, carried this remarkable legacy to greater heights through his visionary direction, artistic excellence, and unwavering commitment to the preservation of Yakshagana. Today, the Mandali continues its distinguished journey under the dynamic leadership of his grandson, Dr. Keremane Shivananda Hegde, who carries forward the family's legacy while embracing new opportunities for the growth and global recognition of this timeless art form. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the preservation and promotion of Indian traditional performing arts, he was conferred an Honorary Doctorate by Srividya International University for Vedic Science, Florida, USA, in 2026.

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Over the decades, the Mandali has presented more than 9,000 performances, captivating audiences with its exceptional music, dance, storytelling, costumes, and theatrical excellence.

The Mandali has performed extensively across India and has represented Karnataka's rich cultural heritage on prestigious international stages in the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, Bahrain, France, China, Nepal, and several other countries. Its authentic performances have earned admiration from both the general public and scholars of Indian performing arts.

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A landmark achievement in the Mandali's journey came when it became the first and only Yakshagana organization to receive accreditation under UNESCO's 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. This international recognition acknowledges the Mandali's sustained contribution to safeguarding, promoting, and transmitting the living heritage of Yakshagana for future generations.

The Mandali's contribution to Yakshagana has also received academic recognition. Its artistic innovations and lasting impact inspired doctoral research at Karnatak University, culminating in the publication of the thesis "Contribution of Idagunji Troupe to Yakshagana Art" as a book in 1998.

Today, the Mandali comprises 15 permanent artistes and 5 guest artistes, continuing its mission of preserving, promoting, and presenting the timeless tradition of Yakshagana through performances, education, research, and cultural outreach across India and the world.

 

The Wikipedia page on Our Organisation (The Mandali)