Karkala MLA and former minister for Kannada and culture V. Sunil Kumar on Monday objected to the State government’s decision to change the name of ‘Yaksha Rangayana’, a theatre repertory in Karkala, to ‘Karavali Rangayana’.

The government has taken a unilateral and irresponsible decision, he said in a statement.

‘Yaksha Rangayana’ was established in Karkala with the vision of passing on the heritage of the world-famous Yakshagana theatre to the next generation.

“This sudden and malicious move to change the name is a grave insult to Yakshagana theatre. It is also an insult to the self-respect of thousands of artists who rely on this art form for their livelihood,” he said.

The MLA alleged that the government’s decision was part of a systematic conspiracy to strangle Yakshagana theatre.

Mr. Kumar said ‘Yaksha Rangayana’ was established under the BJP-led government when he was minister for Kannada and culture. It was intended to carry forward Yakshagana, which is the identity of the entire coastal belt, to the youth. Since then, activities related to Yakshagana and drama have been held continuously at the centre, drawing young people towards theatre and drama.

About ₹2 crore was sanctioned for the construction of the ‘Yaksha Rangayana’ building and other required infrastructure.

“Today, by removing the word ‘Yaksha’ from its original name, whose favour is the government standing for? Who is behind this attempt to erase the name of Yakshagana from the cultural map? Who are the invisible forces that forced the government to change the name of the art form?” he questioned.

“Can this Congress government not even tolerate the art of Yakshagana?” he asked.

The government took the decision in a hurry, without consulting the people’s representatives of the coastal region, without bringing it to anyone’s attention, and without securing the trust of local people, the former minister said.

Seeking the government to withdraw its decision, Mr. Kumar said: “Yakshagana is not just a performing art. It is a sentimental cultural identity that flows in the blood of the people of the coastal region. It is an unforgivable crime to harm the pride and honour of such an art.”

The former minister said political ulterior motives should be set aside, and the original name, ‘Yaksha Rangayana’, should be restored.

If the government does not do so, it will have to face opposition from all Yakshagana fan groups, artists, and theatre luminaries in the coastal region, the MLA said.