Yakshagana, a form of folk theater which is presented in a unique manner is indigenous to the coastal districts of Karnataka state in South India. Yaksha (nature spirits) and gana (song) indicates, this art form literally means song of the nature spirits. When it comes to music alone, this art form is a separate genre along with dance, dialogue, costume, make-up and many stage techniques gives it a different style. Traditionally, Yakshagana is presented from dusk till dawn. The art form is believed to have originated during the Bhakti movement in the 13th century AD. Another interesting fact about this art form is that – traditionally all the female characters are played by male (and it is differentiated with the type of head gear worn).
