Yakshagana's Rich Legacy

Palli Srinivas Hegde

Born of Balkattubeedu Chandrashekhar Hegde and Palli Pajakodange Lakshani Hegde, he made an entry into agriculture and business fields in 1960. He started the first bus service "West Coast" between Udupi and Manipal in 1966 and founded 'Rajaram Motors' in 1969.

Hegde was a far-sighted agriculturist and grew vanilla, rambutan, mangosteen, clove and other exotic plants, besides the traditional betelnut, coconut and pepper in his model 'Khajane' agricultural farm located at Khajane near Shivapura, which has been rated the best farm in the whole state. It is believed to be the largest farm in the country growing fruits of foreign origin.

Hegde held various agriculture-related posts as trustee of vanilla development organization, treasurer of Syndicate Agricultural and Rural Development Foundation and others.

Palli Srinivas Hegde was a prominent figure in the Yakshagana community of Karnataka, renowned for his pivotal role in managing the Saligrama Yakshagana troupe. He took over the troupe from its founder, Yajamana Sridhara Hande, and led it for 17 years, significantly contributing to its growth and prominence. Under his leadership, the troupe expanded its reach, performing approximately 250 shows annually across India during the "tirugata" season. His tenure saw the troupe overcome challenges, including the loss of key performers like Bhagawatha Navada and Naika, maintaining its legacy and artistic excellence.

Hegde also contributed to several public causes like temple and 'garodi' renovation, school betterment, marriage of girls from poor families and medical treatment of financially needy persons with serious ailments.

Besides many other awards, in 2005, Hegde had received the best agriculturist awards at the hands of former chief election commissioner T N Seshan.