Established in 2015 by Patla Sathish Shetty, the Yakshadhruva Patla Foundation Trust, a registered charitable organization in Mangalore, India, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Yakshagana. With a focus on supporting Yakshagana artists, the trust ensures the continuity and prosperity of this traditional art form. Providing financial assistance and promoting self-sufficiency for artists, the foundation conducts training programs and workshops for enthusiasts. Additionally, it organizes conferences, meetups, and honours achievers in the field. The foundation has expanded globally, with branches in the UAE and the US, alongside its presence in major Indian cities, raising over INR 85 million through philanthropic support.
Nurturing the holistic and interconnected development of Yakshagana and its artists on a global platform, concurrently advocating for the promotion of local art forms in tandem with Yakshagana.
1. Our overarching objective is to elevate Yakshagana theatre to new heights, not only within India but also on the international stage. This ambitious mission is pursued through a multifaceted approach, including captivating performances, innovative explorations, interactive workshops, rigorous training, and scholarly research. We are dedicated to seamlessly bridging Yakshagana with the modern world while cherishing its intrinsic traditional charm.
2. Our commitment extends beyond the stage to the empowerment of artists, providing them with holistic support that enables them to lead fulfilling lives enriched with societal esteem and personal integrity. At the core of our endeavours is the support of philanthropic contributors, allowing us to take proactive and adaptive steps—both artistically and socially—to nurture Yakshagana and its practitioners.
3. Our collective focus is on ensuring the continuous advancement and welfare of this revered art form, maintaining a delicate balance between tradition and progress.