Mangaluru: A television anchor’s generalised statement on Yakshagana artists has irked enthusiasts of the folk art in both the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, forcing the editor of the television channel to apologise for the comment.

Two days ago, the anchor of a television channel, Soukhya Gaonkar from the Uttara Kannada district interviewed Ravi Belagere, a senior journalist. While speaking with Belagere, she remarked that all Yakshagana artistes deliver dialogues only after consuming alcohol. Her comment implied that all Yakshagana artistes are drunkards.

As the video clip of the interview between the anchor and Belagere went viral on social media, many questioned the former and demanded an apology. Many Yakshagana enthusiasts felt that such a statement has tarnished the image of Yakshagana artists.

Finally, although claiming that the comment was unintentional, the editor of the television channel apologised.