The Nāṭya Śāstra, written by Bharata Muni, is a treatise that conveys the essence of the four Vedas to people and stands as one of the earliest documented records of Indian cultural heritage. All dimensions of India’s cultural richness are understood and interpreted through the Nāṭya Śāstra. Although 64 arts were discussed in ancient India, only 6, including music, literature, dance, drama, painting, and sculpture, were specifically recognised as performance‑oriented fine arts. These arts are symbolic of Indian culture and are, in the truest sense, regarded as invaluable cultural wealth.
Yakṣagāna represents a composite form of all these arts and is, in a sense, visual poetry. It has been practised for centuries in the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga in Karnataka. In addition, Yakṣagāna is also documented as part of the family of performing arts prevalent in the neighbouring states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It is, in effect, a practical manifestation of the Nāṭya Śāstra and, at the same time, a living classical performing art tradition.
Against this comprehensive backdrop, the work ‘Dasharupakagala Dashavatara’ will be reviewed by noted journalist and senior Yakṣagāna scholar Shri Ashok Hasyagar.
Shri Ashok Hasyagar began his career as a photographer before transitioning into journalism, where he served as a reporter and later as an editor for Lokadhwani and Janamadhyama. He went on to serve as Rural News Editor at Kannadamma (Belagavi), correspondent for Navanadu, and Founder-Editor of Karavali Munjavu. A recipient of multiple prestigious honours, including the Echcheske Award, Kadamba Sena Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award by the All India Kannada Literary Conference in Haveri, his publications span poetry, biography, and significant research works on Yakṣagāna.
