'Yakshagana,' a theatre and music performance, is a traditional form of art that has been passed down from generation to generation in India's state of Karnataka.
It takes its name from 'Yaksa,' a Hindu mythological figure who protects forests and 'Gana,' which means music. The characters in the play are drawn from the Bhagavad Gita, the holy Hindu epic.
Lately, 'Yakshagana' has been used to convey social messages. It has been adapted to condemn practices such as female infanticide, dowry and the practice of sati, which sees women immolate themselves in their husbands' funerary pyres.
'Since 'Yakshagana' is a narration of Bhagavad Gita, it should be very serious. But the present viewers expect entertainment and hence it is gradually getting disconnected from its original form,' said one of the performers.
'Yakshagana' was traditionally performed in small villages and towns after dusk, when people would finish their work and gather to watch the performance with their families and friends. Today, 'Yakshagana' is also popular in urban areas.
However, 'Yakshagana' is best experienced in small villages near the forest. Performances typically take place on new moon nights, starting at 9.30 p.m. and ending at sunrise.
While in 'Yakshagana' female characters are traditionally performed by men, women performers are now increasingly accepted.
Different artists enter and exit the stage, which is never left empty for the whole duration of the performance.
The 'Yakshagana' crew set up makeshift theaters and changing rooms for their performances.
Artists find it tough to make a living from 'Yakshagana' alone, so they also have regular day jobs. This art form survives largely thanks to the efforts and passion of the performers and the support they receive from their audience.
These days it is also possible to come across adaptations of Shakespeare plays in 'Yakshagana' style or performances that use Western musical instruments instead of traditional Indian ones.
Though 'Yakshagana' is slowly adapting to modern times, some fear this will compromise its original spirit.
Pictured, a performer applied makeup ahead of the show.