Mangaluru : Renowned Yakshagana artiste famous for comedian roles Mijar Annappa (93), passed away on Sunday April 3.

He served over 66 years in the Thenkuthittu Yakshagana art and his roles of ‘Vidushaka’ (comedian) famed in several Yakshagana plays.

Mijar Annappa was born in 1924 at Mijar of Thenka Yedapadavu village of Mangalore Taluk and he belongs to the Kudubi community with Konkani as its mother tongue. Mijar Annappa entered the Yakshagana stage at the age of 27 and during his stage life of over 66 years he made matchless contribution to the cause of Yakshagana. He unique service to Yakshagana was first recieved by ameteur Yakshagana Mela to begin with and then to professional Kateel and Koodlu melas. Later he became a pupular artiste in Karnataka Mela. His forte was in humour charectors (Hasya Pathras). Through his humour roles he brought dignity and honour to Tulu language in Yakshagana. Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy houred Mijar Annappa with its 1991-97 award. and he won the hearts of the audience allover the region.

Mijar Annappa was honoured with Pulincha award, Yaksha Kalanidhi Award, Tulu Sahitya Academy Award and many others.