Kathegaararu is a Yakshagana institution rooted in heritage and driven by innovation. We are committed to preserving and promoting the powerful storytelling traditions of Yakshagana through performances, workshops, and structured classes for learners of all levels.
At the heart of Kathegaararu lies a belief that traditional arts can thrive in the modern world when passed on with clarity, discipline, and creative openness.
Founded by Prasad Cherkady, a multidisciplinary artist known for his work in Yakshagana, theatre, film, direction, and choreography, Kathegaararu embodies both legacy and reinvention.
Prasad is a trained Yakshagana singer and dancer, who has imbibed his art through deep-rooted learning from legendary gurus like Ganesh Kolekadi, Kargallu Vishweshwara Bhat, Shekhar D Shettigar, Cherkady Manjunath Prabhu, and Krishnaraya Prabhu.
The COVID-19 pandemic challenged traditional modes of learning but also inspired us to innovate—our online classes emerged as a powerful medium, helping us connect with Yakshagana enthusiasts across the globe.
Today, this digital pathway stands strong alongside our in-person efforts, expanding access while maintaining the depth of our traditions.
Meet the experienced artists and educators who guide our learners with passion and dedication.
Prasad Cherkady
Founder & Instructor –
Bhagavatike, Natya & Prasanga Choreography
Prasad Cherkady is a renowned Yakshagana artist and the visionary behind Kathegaararu.
As a multidisciplinary performer, he teaches Bhagavatike (singing), Natya (dance), and Prasanga choreography with clarity, creativity, and deep-rooted traditional wisdom.
Prasad actively performs Yakshagana with Kathegaararu and collaborates with other esteemed teams across India, carrying forward the art with dedication.
His teaching style is both rigorous and inspiring, guiding learners to not only perform but to feel the soul of Yakshagana.
Keerthana Udyavara
Instructor –
Yakshagana Natya & Makeup
Yakshagana dance classes are conducted by Keerthana Udyavara, who has been guiding students of Kathegaararu in both Natya and Yakshagana Makeup (Bannagaarike) since the past year.
Originally from Udyavara in Udupi district, she is now based in Bengaluru, actively involved in both Yakshagana performances and training sessions in the city.
Her deep understanding of movement and character portrayal makes her sessions highly engaging for learners of all levels.
Ganesh Acharya
Instructor –
Yakshagana Singing (Bhagavatike)
Yakshagana singing classes are conducted by Bhagavatha Ganesh Acharya, who has been teaching Purvaranga and Prasanga-based Bhagavatike to Kathegaararu’s students for the past two years.
Originally from Udupi, he is currently based in Bengaluru, where he is actively engaged in Yakshagana performances and training programs.
His refined musical command and stage experience make him a valuable guide for aspiring Bhagavathas.
the vibrant Storytelling Tradition of Karnataka. We are Pioneers in Online Yakshagana Teaching,
making this Art form Accessible to Learners across the Globe.
Learn Yakshagana from the comfort of your home or inperson! Kathegaararu is the first Institution to offer Structured Online Yakshagana Classes, making it possible for Students Worldwide to train under Experienced Instructors.
Live Interactive classes via Zoom | Beginner to Advanced-level Training
One-on-one & Group Sessions available | Learn Dance, Expressions (Bhava), Music & Storytelling
Interactive & Engaging Yakshagana Workshops
Dive into the world of Storytelling, Movement and Rhythm
through short-term, intensive training sessions.
Contact
+91 96111 34810
