The Yakshagana Kalaranga, Udupi, handed over its 99th free house to a second-year pre-university student on Tuesday under its initiative of building houses for students from economically weaker sections.

The house, built at Moodukukkude near Harady in Brahmavar taluk of Udupi district, costing ₹7 lakh, was handed over to the family of a student named Harshith.

The construction of the house was sponsored by B. Narahari and his brothers, children of Baikady Krishnaiah and Yashodadevi.

Speaking on the occasion, Gautam Pai, executive president, Manipal Technologies Ltd., said the Kalaranga was doing yeoman service to society and Yakshagana theatre.

The sponsor of the house, Mr. Narahari, senior general manager, Manipal Technologies Ltd., also spoke.

The Kalaranga is an organisation dedicated to the promotion of Yakshagana and education. Its Vidya Poshak initiative, launched in 2005, provides students with scholarships, textbooks, a book-bank scheme, health check-ups, medical facilities, and free coaching.

Beneficiary students must be enrolled under the Vidya Poshak scheme of the Kalaranga to receive a free house.