Yakshagana Stalwart Mijar Annappa (92) Passes away
Moodbidri: Mijar Annappa (92), who entertained Yakshagana enthusiasts with his comedy roles for many decades, passed away at his residence late Sunday night on April 3.
Born in an economically backward Kudubi community, Annappa took an interest in Yakshagana at a young age. He soon created a niche for himself, ultimately reigning supreme in the field for long 68 years.
He began with the role of a demon which he played for some time. At the insistence of the troupe owner the late Koraga Shetty, he switched over to comedy roles and stuck to the format ever since.
He served three generations of the Kalladi family by being a member of their troupe.
He had a great command over Tulu, besides Kannada. He had a flair for delivering dialogues in pure, ethnic Tulu, which the audience loved and craved for more.
Among the best-remembered roles he had played were of Kechu Ballala in Bolliginde, Payyabaidya of Koti Chennaya, Lingappa Achary of Devu Poonja, Sakha in Kordabbu Baraga, Chonkra in Kadamallige, Kampana Moolya in Dalavayi Dugganna and many others.
Apart from being honoured with titles like Abhinava Tenali and Hasya Chakravarti, he had won over a hundred awards.
He is survived by wife, a son and a daughter.