Mysuru: Yakshagana artiste and critic Srinivas Sasthan was presented Chittani Award in memory of Chittani Ramachandra Hegde (in pic), a senior Yakshagana artiste, by former  Vice-Chancellor Dr. S.N. Hegde at Jaganmohan Palace here yesterday as part of the three-day Yakshotsava.

Speaking on the occasion, Srinivas Sasthan commended Innovative-Mysuru for promoting Yakshagana in city for the last 25 years. He suggested that to popularise Yakshagana, the art should not confine to only the traditional and mythological stories but should also cover social stories.

Journalist Ravindra Bhat delivered the felicitation address and praised Srinivas Sasthan for setting up many Yakshagana learning centres in Bengaluru thus promoting the art among youngsters.

Hotelier Narayana Hegde was the chief guest. Innovative President G.S. Bhatta, Secretary Heramba R. Bhat, Treasurer Dr. S.N. Hegde, Ayurveda College Professor Dr. K.S. Umashankar and others were present.

Later, the Yakshagana ‘Maruti Pratapa’ was presented.

Today, Yakshagana ‘Duryodana Avasana’ will be presented at 5 pm. This will be followed by felicitation to G.S. Bhatta and release of felicitation volume ‘Uttarottara’ by former Chief Minister Dr. M. Veerappa Moily.