Sullia : Veteran Yakshagana Bhagavatha Padyana Ganapathi Bhat (67) passed away at his residence at Kalmadka on October 12, Tuesday morning following a brief illness.

Ganapathi Bhat had forayed into the Yakshagana field at a very young age. He had initially learnt the intricacies of Bhagavathike from his grandfather and then under the tutelage of Mambadi Narayana Bhagavatha. He began Bhagavathike in Tenkutittu Yakshagana at the age of 16.

Padyana Ganapathi Bhat had served the Kundavu Mela, Suratkal, Mangaladevi, Edaneer and Sri Ramachandrapura Melas. He had served the Suratkal Sri Mahamayee Mela for nearly 26 years.

He was popularly known as Gaana Gandharva and recipient of several awards including district Rajyotsava Award in 2007. Padyana Ganapathi Bhat is survived by his wife, two sons and innumerous admirers.