Yakshagana Chikka Melas to Start Rainy Season Tour on June 5

Imagine a group of Yakshagana performers, like traveling storytellers, who usually perform big shows.

But when it rains, they can't do those big shows.

So, they do smaller performances, called Chikka Melas, at people's houses!

These small groups of five artists will start their tour on June 5th, going around different homes in the evenings.

They'll perform short acts, earning money while the big shows are on hold.

This year, the tour begins with a special event at a temple to launch their season.

The performers work together to ensure everyone's unity and they formed an Okkuta (federation) for the purpose.

This helps them keep the tradition alive and continue their art during the rainy season.