Kateel Yakshagana Mela

• The over-a-century old Yakshagana mela, the Kateel Durgaparameshwari Prasadita Yakshagana Mandali, in Dakshina Kannada will revert to all-night shows from January 14, after the High Court of Karnataka gave the go-ahead for it subject to adherence to noise pollution rules.
• The HC allowed the mela to perform from dusk to dawn adhering to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

ABOUT THE MELA

• It refers to a traditional form of theater performance known as Yakshagana, which is predominantly found in the state of Karnataka, India.
  • “Kateel” refers to the town of Kateel in Karnataka, which is known for its own unique troupes or ‘Melas’ performing this art form.
• It is mainly based on stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
  • Devi Mahatme is the most popular prasanga (episode) preferred by many.
• They are usually performed on open-air stages at night and can last up to several hours.
• Most shows of the mela are “harake” (hosting the Yakshagana show for God fulfilling a wish)
• The troupes mainly tour in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Kasaragod (Kerala) districts.