Koraga community gets first Rajyotsava award

Centenary Dolu artiste Guruva Koraga proves his mettle

Vartha Bharati | 28-11-2018 | 23:22:00 IST

Udupi, November 28: Folklore artiste centenarian Guruva Koraga who has been introducing the infinity of folk culture through beating Dolu, has got the Kannada Rajyotsava award this time and thus, he has brought the first Rajyotsava award to Koraga community.  

He has brought laurels to the Tulunadu and the Koraga community by getting state level recognition to the folk culture of the Tulunadu. Guruva Koraga, aged 102 years, belongs to Koraga tribal community and a resident of Balkodi of Guddeangadi in Hiriyadka. As the son of Dolu artiste Hiriyadka Thoma and Thumbe couple, Guruva Koraga has started beating Dolu in his 12th year. Now, he has been leading a simple life with his children and grandchildren.

Though he has crossed hundred years, he has not lost his interest in beating the Dolu. The beating sound of his Dolu would bring luster during Hiriyadka, Kanajaru jatra mahotsav, Garadi utsav, Kola and Kambala. Along with Guruva Koraga, his son-in-law and four-five others would join him and beat the Dolu.

Guruva Koraga depends on Rs 500 old age pension. Apart from this, he leads his life with the honorarium he gets during the Jatra, Kambala and other celebrations. But he does not have any other source of income for his livelihood.  

Considering his service in promoting the Dolu culture of Tulunadu, Karnataka Janapada Academy has given its honorary award in 2017. He has also got various other awards. In last March, his birth centenary programme was conducted in Udupi.

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