Munich: In a significant moment for coastal Karnataka’s traditional art form, Yakshagana was presented in the German language for the first time on February 28, 2026, in Munich, Germany.
The performance was staged by the Yakshadhruva Europe children’s team, comprising participants aged between 5 and 14 years. The performers are native German speakers born and brought up in Germany. The production was led by noted Yakshagana artiste and guru Ajeeth Prabhu Thallur.
Preparations for the programme began well in advance. Members of the Yakshadhruva Europe team, including children, parents and volunteers from Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Nürnberg and Munich, worked together to organise stage arrangements, rehearsals, costumes and makeup. The organisers said the collective effort played a key role in the success of the event.
The programme opened with the lighting of a traditional lamp by German guests, symbolising cultural exchange. A documentary titled “Yakshagana in Europe” was screened in German to introduce the audience to the history and background of the art form.
The live performance featured traditional Yakshagana elements including elaborate costumes, detailed makeup and expressive storytelling. The young performers presented the show in German with confidence and discipline.
Organisers said the hall was filled beyond capacity, with nearly 80 per cent of the audience being Germans. Many attendees reportedly stood for the duration of the performance. The audience maintained silence throughout the show and later gave a standing ovation.
German attendees expressed appreciation for the performance, and several children from the audience were seen responding to questions about the show.
At the conclusion of the programme, certificates were presented to the participating children by guru Ajeeth Prabhu Thallur in recognition of their efforts in presenting Yakshagana in German.
Organisers described the event as an important step in taking Yakshagana to international audiences and promoting cultural exchange through traditional art.
