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Arts & Communication Tech revitalization of Yakshagana artifacts

professors exist throughout India, as well as in the United choreography, and costume materials. Literature research
States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and Germany. and musical instrument innovations were also identified as
At present, many Indian art forms, including Yakshagana, significant areas for advancement (Figure 3A).
are facing significant challenges due to the lack of proper tools, Specifically, the survey revealed overwhelming support
techniques, and systems. For art forms such as drama, song, (96%) for exploring technical research possibilities
dance, and film, technology has strengthened various aspects, within Yakshagana. Notably, 91% of the participants
including propaganda, communication, pre-production, expressed a desire to reduce the time required for costume
learning, display, printing, viewing, transmission, feedback, changes, while 92% emphasized the need for lighter, yet
criticism, and artist security. However, to date, advancements durable costumes (Figures 3C and D). More than 90%
in materials science and manufacturing technologies have of participants believed that technology could address
not been effectively used in performance arts. the production and manufacturing challenges associated
In India, Kathakali, Kutiyattam (Kerala), Terukkuttu with Yakshagana costumes (Figure 3E). Moreover, the
(Tamil Nadu), Raslila (Manipur), Chhau (West Bengal), participants emphasized the need to expand research
etc., and other art forms in the world, such as Kabuki beyond traditional areas, such as literature and artist
(Japan) and Bian Lian (China), use traditional costumes studies, to encompass costume and musical instrument
and percussion instruments. 18,19 Although there are design and production (Figure 3F). This underscores the
many studies on the literature and sociocultural values vast potential for technical research and development in
of these art forms, limited research has focused on Yakshagana (Figure 3B).
their costumes and instruments, which have strong Among the numerous aspects of Yakshagana open to
international relevance. Furthermore, since this domain technical research, the areas of literature, broadcasting,
is not a mainstream commercial segment, no noteworthy lighting, and choreography are less critical for engineering
technical research has been undertaken in regard to studies. Instead, two key areas stand out for materials
costumes and percussion instruments. The absence of a engineering research: the design and development of
connection between technical experts and performers is costume elements and musical instruments. Thus, this
another reason for this gap. study explores specific research possibilities related
However, as people become increasingly aware of the to ornaments and percussion instruments used in
value and benefits of the performing arts, the primary Badaguthittu Yakshagana, highlighting avenues for future
challenge is to sustain and spread traditional art forms in innovation and exploration.
the face of modernization and globalization. In this regard, 2. Major ornaments of Yakshagana
effective use of technology is vital for preserving, growing,
and passing along these magnificent art forms to future Ornaments used in Badaguthittu slightly differ in their
generations. design and construction from Thenkuthittu. However,
all of these ornaments are unique and attract attention,
1.1. Understanding the needs through a survey since they are made of light wood, canvas, and fabric.
Understanding the need for technology in any domain Specifically, these ornaments are hand-carved on wood
is crucial while determining whether the stakeholders covered with gold/aluminum foils, and inlaid with colored
are satisfied with current technological developments mirrors, stones, and beetle wings. Major ornaments worn
is another important aspect. To address these aspects by common characters in Badaguthittu Yakshagana
and to establish a connection between the stakeholders are shown in Figure 4. They include the pagade (main
of Yakshagana and technical researchers, a survey was structure of a headdress), the karnapathra (ornament that
conducted. The key objectives were to determine whether covers the ears), wrist and shoulder ornaments, belts, chest
there are any needs that call for immediate attention and ornaments, hanging girdles, bracelets, anklets, and so on.
whether the stakeholders are desperately seeking certain Figure 5 presents various armlets, shoulder ornaments,
technological developments. chest ornaments, belts, and other wooden jewels. Overall,
these headdresses and other ornaments are examples of
A total of 526 participants, including audience
members, professional and amateur artists, supporters, beautiful artistic work.
researchers, learners, organizers, and costume experts, Figure 6A-C depicts a variety of headdresses, each
participated in the survey. When asked which areas of consisting of different components. For example, the
Yakshagana should see technological improvements, the crown (locally called Kirita) type of headgear in Figure 6A
majority of the participants mentioned advertising and is typically made from a tubular hollow design of wood and
broadcasting as the top priority, followed by lighting, inlaid with glass, mirror, and attractive artificial stones.

Volume 2 Issue 4 (2024) 4 doi: 10.36922/ac.3052