Fading interest in Pad­dana tradition worries Janapada Academy awardee Appi Panara

Team Udayavani, Dec 1, 2024, 11:07 AM IST

Shirva: The diminishing role of paddanas—the traditional oral ballads of Tulu Nadu—has become a grave concern for senior paddana artiste and Karnataka Janapada Academy awardee, Appi Panara of Moodubelle Kadabetthu. She believes this erosion threatens the region’s rich oral heritage.

In a recent interaction with Udayavani following the announcement of her award on November 4, Appi Panara expressed her worries about the declining interest in paddanas.

Journey into the World of Paddanas

Appi Panara, born into a family devoted to Daiva Aradhane (spiritual worship), recounted her childhood in Panjimaru near Shirva. Orphaned at a young age, she was raised by her grandmother and uncle, who inspired her involvement in the art form. By 25, she began singing paddanas during rituals, a tradition she has carried forward at Daivasthanas across Udupi and Chikkamagaluru districts.

Appi Panara has memorized numerous paddanas, including unique compositions about Panjurli, Joomuru Jumadi, Kallurti Kalkuda, and more. She performs these in different tones and styles as part of spiritual worship and rituals.

Some of her renditions, such as Gidirautha Panjurli and Joomuru Jumadi, have been recorded by Mangalore All India Radio. Literary stalwarts like Amrut Someshwar and B.A. Vivek Rai have appreciated her work and contributed to documenting paddanas.

Family and Legacy

Married into a family engaged in Daiva Aradhane, her children and grandchildren have continued the tradition, ensuring its survival in the modern era.

Appi Panara urged young enthusiasts to embrace the paddana tradition, emphasizing its integral role in Daiva Aradhane. “Without paddanas, the essence of worship and rituals diminishes. Preserving these oral traditions is our responsibility,” she said.

Preservation Efforts Needed

At 70, Appi Panara worries about the future of rare paddanas as her memory fades. She emphasized the need to document these oral treasures before they are lost forever. “The government and academies must take steps to preserve these invaluable traditions,” she appealed.

Challenges Faced by the Paanara Community

Highlighting the struggles of her Paanara community, she mentioned difficulties in availing financial assistance due to a lack of formal recognition for their hereditary roles. She called for government initiatives like pensions and better support for those who dedicate their lives to Daiva Aradhane.

Appi Panara’s rare and poignant paddanas, such as the tale of Joomuru Jumadi, reflect stories of courage, justice, and resistance against exploitation. These narratives, steeped in the culture and history of Tulu Nadu, underline the urgent need for their preservation for future generations.