Santosh Hulsemakki
Secretary
Role: Committee Member, Performer & Cultural Contributor
Place of Birth: Hulsemakki, born on June 15, 1990
Current Profession: Proprietor – Vaidehi Silks & Cottons
Education:
Primary & Secondary Education: Prabodhini Gurukula, Hariharapura (with a focus on Vedas, Yoga, Science, and Arts)
Pre-University - MM Arts & Science College, Sirsi
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
Diploma in Cooperative Management
About Him:
Santosh Hegde is a deeply rooted cultural enthusiast, performer, and entrepreneur whose life journey reflects a beautiful blend of traditional education, artistic expression, and community involvement. Born to Shri Gangadhar Hegde and Smt. Malathi, he was raised in a spiritually and culturally rich environment.
From a young age, he was drawn to Yakshagana. His training began in 8th grade under the mentorship of eminent gurus like Shri Hiriyanna Shettigar and Shri Suresh Shettigar of Tantradi. With four years of formal training, he emerged as a skilled amateur artist and has performed with several local troupes, including Kamalanatheshwara Yakshagana Mandali.
Yakshagana Journey & Experience:
Santosh has been actively involved in the Yakshagana art form for many years, performing with various renowned troupes such as:
Poorna Chandra Kala Pratishthana, Kondadakuli
Yaji Yaksha Mitra Mandali
Chittani Balaga
His portrayals have left a strong impact in local cultural circuits, and he continues to support and promote the art form through both performance and mentorship.
Professional Experience:
Santosh served in the cooperative sector for 11 years before transitioning fully into entrepreneurship. He is now the owner of Vaidehi Silks & Cottons, a business rooted in traditional Indian textiles.
Interests & Contributions:
Beyond Yakshagana, Santosh is passionate about agriculture, community service, and social upliftment. He remains active in cultural events, rural development activities, and supports the propagation of traditional arts through his involvement in Dheemahi Yakshagana Kalakendra.
His multifaceted experience, from stage to service to business, makes him a vital contributor to the team’s cultural mission.
