Bangalore Utsav turns the spotlight on local artistes and art forms

Often abuzz with artsy activities, the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath campus is currently hosting the latest chapter of Bangalore Utsav, the primary goal of which is to showcase indigenous art forms and local artistes. Apart from a sprawling display of handloom
products for the festive season, the utsav is providing the platform for artistes from different parts of the state to showcase their talent and acquaint city-dwellers with native art.

In an interesting Huli Vesha act over the weekend, artiste Chandru, from Ramanagara , performed amid audiences, as he hopped around the open stage and climbed trees. On Sunday evening, artiste Uday Kanathur enthralled youngsters with his magic, juggling and ventriloquism acts. “Art forms like juggling and voice illusion have few takers in today’s world. Kids do show interest initially, but they outgrow them soon,” says Uday, who can mimic as many as 36 voices — from birds, squirrels to dogs and human babies. Organiser Gangadhar says, “We are hoping to bring more artistes to the fore. Next weekend, there will be Yakshagana performances and string puppet shows.”