Wooing: then and now
Just when we begin to lose hope of traditional art surviving the onslaught of modern entertainment, comes a ray of hope. Folk arts have proved time and again that they survive irrespective of any patronage. And the secret lies in adapting and incorporating newer dimensions.
How does the modern youth respond to folk art? Can they be entertained through such traditional arts? “Yes, definitely,” says
Guddappa is 62 but started performing at 15. “My father and older uncle were great performers. I accompanied them and learnt from watching them.”
The Sri Kalabhaiarava Jogi Kala Sangha is performing
The origin of Jogi is credited to the following story: In the 10th year of the Pandavas’ exile, Arjuna wanted to see their mother Kunti. He requests sage guru Bharavantha to make it happen. Bharavantha tells Arjuna that he will if he can kill a demon, Kinnari. After Arjuna slays Kinnari the sage creates musical instruments from Kinnari’s body parts and gives it to him. Dressed as a Jogi, Arjuna meets Kunti. At the end of the 14-year exile, Arjuna orders his servants to immerse the Jogi attire it in the river. An old beggar requests them to donate it to him and on learning the story behind the attire starts telling it to the world. Thus was born the Jogera Aata.
Jogera Aata is usually performed through the night. Guddappa Jogi says, “In Bangalore it’s a few hours long. When storytelling is mixed with songs and musical instruments, it becomes colourful. We always get a standing ovation when we perform.” In Gujarat, Jogi is a caste and Jogis walk around the village, singing to awaken people.
The Jogera Aata performance is organised by Aviratha Trust , an
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