TULASI HEGDE
From the forested hills of Sirsi, Karnataka, comes a storyteller whose stage is tradition, and whose words are movement. Tulasi Hegde is a young Yakshagana artist who brings ancient mythology to life through her voice, expression, and boundless energy. Raised in a home where culture echoed through lullabies, she has made the classical art form her calling. Today, she stands as a beacon for a new generation one that dares to honor the past while boldly dancing into the future.
Her journey began at just three years old not with teachers, but with sheer will. Drawn to the rhythm of Yakshagana, Tulasi insisted on learning even before mentors would accept her. With no experience, her mother stepped in studying performances and teaching her daughter from scratch. Eventually, formal training followed. Performing mostly as Krishna, Tulasi quickly became known for her immersive portrayals, enchanting audiences from every walk of life with her confidence, devotion, and deep understanding of this layered art.
Tulasi’s story is also one of grit. After long school days, she would travel to late-night performances, often returning home past 3 a.m. only to wake by dawn to prepare for school and exams. Her discipline, fueled by a love for Yakshagana, is unwavering. Over the years, she has performed across villages and cities, touching countless lives. Some viewers weep during her shows; others bow in reverence. For Tulasi, these moments are sacred proof that art can not only entertain, but elevate the soul and bring peace to both performer and audience.
A typical day for Tulasi begins at 5 a.m. with study and rehearsal. She attends school, returns by evening, and prepares for night shows. Amidst her demanding schedule, she finds joy in other passions caring for animals, milking cows, reading, writing poetry, and even public speaking. Her love for agriculture and nature is as deep as her love for mythology. This balance of creativity, culture, and compassion makes her not just a performer but a cultural custodian with a vibrant, grounded spirit.
Tulasi’s impact is both artistic and emotional. From retired scholars to curious children, audiences often describe feeling transformed after watching her perform. With themes centered around inner peace and moral stories, she believes that “world peace begins with personal peace.” Her recognitions include honors from respected cultural institutions across the country. Though her accolades are many, Tulasi speaks more about purpose than praise. Each performance is a prayer — one she hopes continues to guide, inspire, and open doors for the preservation of India’s rich storytelling traditions.
Looking ahead, Tulasi dreams of taking Yakshagana to global stages and founding an institute where anyone, from any country, can learn this art. She also aspires to become a lawyer — blending advocacy with tradition. Her motto is simple: “No excuses. Dream so big that people laugh.” It’s this fearless clarity that sets her apart — as both a performer and a visionary shaping the future through ancient roots.
Winning the Global Child Prodigy Award 2025 is a deeply cherished milestone for Tulasi. “I am very grateful for this award,” she says. “It has given me recognition and strength.” With this platform, she hopes to reach more people, grow her mission, and show children everywhere that even the most traditional paths can lead to powerful change.
“Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.” – Gustav Mahler
