Kundapura: The small village of Uppinakudru, recognised for taking the traditional puppet show to the international level, is now marred by negligence by the department concerned. The art is now struggling for its existence.

Initially, Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) was a hindrance for the construction of the Gombeyata Academy building. But, currently, the mismanagement by the Mescom has brought a headache to the Academy chief.

The electricity connection was obtained by the academy from Mescom by paying the prescribed fee. But when the academy members were out of the building for organising a programme, the Mescom has drawn an electric line from the academy building to provide electricity connection for the street light. When the academy representatives asked Mescom about it, the officials said that a resolution has been passed by the Panchayat in this regard.

The Mescom has not availed any permission from the academy supply electricity to the street light. On the contrary, the Mescom has charged that the academy has encroached the land while constructing the compound.

The puppet team has a long history and the art of puppetry show has come down from six generations.
Devanna Kogga Kamath of Uppinakudru made the art famous. The troupe has conducted shows in more than 20 countries. The academy representatives have requested the concerned department of the government and the local administration to come to their rescue.