ASICS India Brand Athlete Rohan Bopanna and Actress Gul Panag Unveil the Official Race Day Merchandise for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024

Tennis player Rohan Bopanna & Bollywood actress Gul Panag during the launch

Bangalore :

ASICS, the Japanese sportswear brand, today launched the limited-edition merchandise for Asia’s most prestigious Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. ASICS Brand Athlete Mr. Rohan Bopanna along with actress & avid runner Ms. Gul Panag unveiled the new collection at ASICS store on Linking Road in Mumbai.

The vibrant design of this collection by ASICS conveys a strong story of energy, persistence and passion for running. The Gel Kayano™ 30 Limited Edition shoes are designed with a unique blend of colors like Electric Blue/Aquarium for Men and White Sun Coral for Women, to appeal both male and female runners.

The specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 running shoe has Mumbai 2024 emblazoned on the side. The shoe provides maximum comfort and style reflecting Mumbai’s colorful culture. The GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoes is equipped with advanced features like a 4D Guidance System for stability and FF BLASTTM PLUS ECO cushioning for softness, the shoes aim to energize runner’s every stride of their run.

The limited-edition race day t-shirt design shows the circular pattern that encapsulates the spirit of unity via the “Enso” motif from Japanese traditions. It is crafted in seven symbolic colours denoting various facets of life, the collection aims to bring all marathon participants together in a harmonious cooperation towards a shared goal. The t-shirt and shoe bring out the complete essence of the city of Mumbai and will connect and bond well with the runners of Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024.

Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South ASIA said, “We are delighted to have Mr. Rohan Bopanna and Ms. Gul Panag onboard to reveal our official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. Inspired by the dynamic energy of this city and event, our goal is to design apparel that empower athletes at every skill level to unleash their complete potential. This collection is a testament to our dedication in fostering a commitment to help individuals achieve their athletic goals.”

Commenting on the event, ASICS Brand Athlete, Rohan Bopanna said, “I am glad to be a part of this special day being a Brand Athlete for ASICS India and unveiling the official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024 is truly special. As an athlete, I believe having the innovatively designed gear that seamlessly blends style with high performance is paramount. These specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoe and t-shirt perfectly captures the vibrant energy of the city.”

Mr. Anil Singh, Managing Director, Procam International, said, “ASICS has been a longstanding partner of the Tata Mumbai Marathon and the Procam Family. They have continuously set new benchmarks with top-of-the-line event merchandise which are highly sought after by our participants. As we gear up for the 19th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, here’s a race filled with inspiration, determination and the beating heart of India in every step #HarDilMumbai.”

The TATA Mumbai Marathon 2024, is a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race and will be hosted on Sunday, 21st January. The event will flagged off from the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal.

The official TATA Mumbai Marathon merchandise will be available to shop on flagship ASICS stores across the country and online brand store, link – https://www.asics.com/in/en-in .

source: http://www.passionateinmarketing.com / Passionate In Marketing / Home> Article / by Passionate in Marketing / December 13th, 2023

Guwahati Masters 2023: Ashwini Ponnappa-Tanisha Crasto clinch second Super 100 level title of the year

Guwahati Masters 2023: Ashwini Ponnappa-Tanisha Crasto clinch second Super 100 level title of the year

The Indian duo defeated Chinese Taipei’s pair in straight sets

Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto clinched their second Super 100 level title of the year as they packed off Chinese Taipei’s Sung Shuo Yun and Yu Chien Hui 21-13, 21-19 in the women’s doubles final of the Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters 2023 badminton tournament here on Sunday.

The second seeded Indians, who had finished runners-up in the Syed Modi International Super 300 event last week, began the final with an aggressive intent as Tanisha prowled the net with aplomb as the local favourites took the opening game with ease.

It looked like Ashwini and Tanisha could race through the match when they opened up a 12-6 lead in the second game. But the Taipei pair clinched five straight points to close the gap to just one point and the Indians faced a few nervy moments thereafter.

To their credit, Ashwini and Tanisha did not lose patience and were prepared to wait for their opportunities. Tanisha found a winner with a smart net push to warn them a match point and the Abu Dhabi Masters champions wrapped things up on the very first opportunity.

Later speaking about the match, Ashwini admitted that the drift did affect when they tried to push the shuttle to the back court. “There were some nervous moments but it was the support of the crowd that egged up on and I am happy that we handled the pressure well.”

This is the first time an international badminton event was being held in Assam since 2007 and the fans got behind the Indian combination during the 40-minute summit clash.

The pair will now head to Bhubaneshwar for the Odisha Masters, hoping to consolidate their position in the world ranking with another strong showing to end the year on a high.

In the other matches, Thailand’s Lalinrat Chaiwan and Indonesia’s Yohanes Saut Marcellyno bagged the women’s and men’s singles crowns.

Chaiwan upset fourth seed Line Christophersen of Denmark 21-14, 17-21, 21-16 in the women’s singles final before Marcellyno got the better of teammate Alvi Wijaya Chairullah 21-12, 21-17 in the men’s singles summit clash.

Second seeds Hee Yong Kai Terry and Tan Wei Han Jessica of Singapore clinched the mixed doubles title with a 21-19, 21-11 win over Mads Vestergaad and Christine Busch of Denmark while Choong Hon Jian and Muhammad Haikal of Malaysia bagged the men’s doubles crown with a 21-17, 23-21 win over Chinese Taipei’s Lin Bing-Wei and Su Ching Heng.

source: http://www.khelnow.com / KhelNow / Home> Badminton / by KhelNow / December 11th, 2023

Lack Of Rains To Chikklihole Dam: Submerged Shiva Temple Surfaces In Kodagu

Kushalnagar:

A Temple that was submerged after the construction of the picturesque Chikklihole Reservoir in Kushalnagar Taluk of Kodagu district has emerged from the waters, thanks to the dry spell and the failure of monsoon. People are coming to see the Temple in hordes and the place has become a picnic spot and a weekend getaway.

The Shiva Temple, constructed in 1983, has become accessible to people after 40 years.  In April 2017 too, the Temple was visible for a brief period but was soon covered in water as it rained in June that year. This time, however, people have a chance to see the Temple till the next normal monsoon which is scheduled to start in June 2024

The Temple, located right in the middle of the Chikklihole Reservoir is visible along with the sanctum sanctorum and the pillars on the sides. There is a small well that was used as a source of water for the Temple before the Reservoir was constructed. Apart from the Shiva Temple, there are structures dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Nandi.

Clear warning, say residents

Clear warning, say residents

The re-emergence of the Temple six months before the onset of monsoon season is causing concern among locals about the potential implications and raising anticipation of a looming water crisis. This situation suggests a possible worsening of the water scarcity issue within the Cauvery basin. Usually, in December, the water inside the Chikklihole Reservoir does not dry up like it has happened this year. The current circumstances serve as a clear warning, say the residents.

Unfortunately, this year, due to inadequate rainfall in Kodagu, the Cauvery River did not flow vigorously, resulting in a water shortage in the Reservoir. The Chiklihole Reservoir, constructed for irrigation and agricultural purposes, saw water flowing into it in the initial months and excess water was discharged. As a result, the Reservoir lost its storage capacity as it did not rain beyond the initial months.

Thousands of farmers depend on the Chikklihole Dam for irrigation in the villages of  Kushalanagar, Rangasamudra, Chikka Bettageri and Dodda Bettageri, Nanjarayapatana, Virupakshapura, Rasoolpura, Bollur, Basavanahalli and Guddehosur.

Even in hot summers these years, there was rarely a situation like the submerged Shiva Temple emerging from the waters. This year, however, the dam has become dry, exposing the structures beneath it.

150-year-old Temple

150-year-old Temple

The Shiva Temple was built 150 years ago by the Magdoor family, hailing from Kerala. The family migrated from the neighbouring region and were indulging in agriculture for a living. As the place had a special significance due to its spiritual nature, astrologers from Kerala were invited there. On the advice of the ‘thanthri’, the Temple was constructed with regular pujas and a grand Mahashivarathri and temple fair that used to be attended by thousands of people.

The Chikklihole Dam was built in 1983 when R. Gundu Rao was the CM to store and supply 0.18 tmcft (thousand million cubic feet) of water. When the Temple was submerged, the Government, honouring religious sentiments, ordered an alternative Temple to be built nearby. Many channels were constructed to take the water to the fields of tail-end farmers. 

In 1993, the descendants of the Magdoor family constructed another Temple of Lord Vishwanatha nearby and consecrated the main idol of Lord Shiva from the old submerged Temple in it. The Vishwanatha Temple of Magdoor went on to become famous.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / December 10th, 2023

Steeped in culture and packed with wonder: Our guide to witnessing Kodagu’s grace and hospitality

Set in the heart of Kodagu (now Coorg), The Tamara Coorg crafts a scenic getaway for the discerning traveller. Surrounded by nature’s bounty and soaked in tales of history, the property gives its guests a peek into the culture and the livelihood of the people in the region.

When it comes to an experiential holiday in the hills, Coorg is the first destination that comes to mind. Previously known as ‘Kodagu’, this hill station has bragging rights to misty mountains, sprawling coffee plantations, quaint monasteries, pepper vines, and a host of other scenic delights for the discerning traveller. 

The etymology of the words “Kodava” (referring to the indigenous people, language, and culture) and “Kodagu” (referring to the land) traces back to the root word ‘Koda’ of uncertain meaning. Some speculate it signifies ‘hills’ while others suggest it signifies ‘west.’ In 1956, Kodagu (now Coorg) was established as a district and became a part of the Karnataka state.

The Land of Coffee

Kodagu thrives as the land of coffee, with the Robusta variety being its primary plantation crop. Notably, Kodagu alone contributes around 33% of India’s coffee production. The region is also renowned for its exquisite wild honey. Nestled within a 184-acre coffee estate, the Tamara Coorg resort stands as a testament to preserving the surrounding ecosystem, untouched by extensive development, making it a truly unique creation in this coffee-rich land.

The flora and fauna of Kodagu

Blessed with three wildlife sanctuaries—Brahmagiri, Talakaveri, and Pushpagiri—and the Nagarhole National Park (also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park), located within the Kodagu district, the region boasts an unparalleled wealth of flora and fauna, showcasing its remarkable biodiversity.

Kodava people

The Kodava people, also known as Kodavas, are the inhabitants of this land. They speak the Kodava language and traditionally identify as land-owning agriculturists, following a patrilineal social order deeply rooted in martial customs. Kodavas hold their ancestors and weaponry in high reverence, and uniquely, they are the only community in India permitted to carry firearms without a licence. Kodagu has also produced several notable hockey players.

Kodava festivities

Kodava festivities revolve around their agricultural practices and military traditions. The community celebrates three main festivals that are distinctive to their culture—Kail Podh, Kaveri Changrandi (Tula Sankramana), and Puthari. In recent times, under the rule of the Haleri Rajas, Kodavas have also embraced a few Hindu festivals, including Ugadi, Ayudha Puja, Dussehra, and Mahashivaratri.

Kodava trails at The Tamara Coorg

Embark on our immersive Kodava Cultural Tour and be transported to a bygone era steeped in tradition. Journey to a nearby village, where a guide will accompany you to an Ainmane, a quintessential ancestral home of the Kodava people.

Walk through the halls of the Ainmane, as it unveils its architectural marvels and treasured artefacts. Delve into the essence of Kodava heritage as you learn about their unique way of life.

Indulge in a tantalising Kodava meal that showcases the region’s authentic flavours and local ingredients. Carry with you cherished memories of the warmth and hospitality as you bid adieu to the Kodava people.

In and around Kodagu

Scouting for activities to partake in when in Kodagu? Here’s a list of destinations that are a stone’s throw from the city and are worth a visit:

  • Abbey Falls | Distance: 44 km
  • Talakaveri And Bhagamandala | Distance: 40 km
  • Bylakuppe | Distance: 76 km
  • Nalknad Palace | Distance: 7.5 km
  • Padi Igguthappa Temple | Distance: 9.2 km
  • Chelavara Falls | Distance: 13 km
  • Omkareshwara Temple | Distance: 38 km
  • Raja’s Seat and Nehru Mantap | Distance: 38 km
  • Madikeri Fort And Palace | Distance: 37 km

For more information about planning a Kodagu itinerary and booking a stay at the plush property of The Tamara Coorg, click here

source: http://www.cntraveller.in / Conde Naste Traveller / Home> India> Hotels & Resorts / Published by The Tamara Coorg / August 04th, 2023

Keilpodh: A Kodava festival of arms in Karnataka

The Ummathat dance

COME September and the Kodavas look forward to Keilpodh, or the festival of arms, a celebration peculiar to Kodagu. The festivities and fun mark the completion of the transplantation of crops and salutes the hard work behind it.

The Kodavas have always maintained an intimate relationship with their weapons. They have evolved their own unique lifestyle where customs and habits emphasize strong family ties and a sense of tradition. They are the only tribes that can own a gun without a licence. A gun plays an important role in the life of a Kodava. After the birth of a child, a single shot is fired into the air to share the news with their neighbours; at the time of death two shots are fired. During weddings they use a large Kodava knife to cut the banana stalk with a single strike. There was mostly forest land where they lived and hunting used to be their favourite pastime. This festival reflects both their martial and agrarian character.

On Keilpodh, guns, knives, swords, bows and arrows and hunting implements are cleaned, polished, smeared with sandalwood paste and kept in the special puja room. They decorate the weapons with flowers, pray and make offerings to the Kodava deities, the river deity, Kaveriamma, the chief preceptor, Mahaguru Iguthappa, and the supreme ancestor, Guru Karana, and seek the well-being of their crops and strength to protect them from wild animals. Hanging prayer lamps, called thookbolcha in the Kodava language, are lit and thokke poor flowers (Gloriosa superba) are placed on the nozzles of guns.

After lunch the male family members, dressed in their traditional kupiyas, gather in the puja room where the Yajmana or the principal male picks up a gun and offers it to the eldest man in the group, signifying the commencement of the festival. The men pay obeisance to the Yajmana, pick up their guns and proceed outside to partake in the contest. Coconuts are tied to the top of the highest tree in the compound and everyone takes turns at showing their prowess with guns, by attempting to split the coconut open with one shot. In days of yore, at the break of dawn on Keilpodh, the Kodavas would set out with loaded rifles to hunt wild boar. 

Arms and the ceremonial dress

The Kodava men don the ceremonial attire which is one of the most distinctive in India. The men make a magnificent picture in their traditional kupiya chales. The kupiya is a long, half-sleeved cotton robe which reaches below the knee, worn with a long-sleeved white shirt underneath and secured around the waist with an elaborate maroon and gold sash known as chale. The peechekathi, a silver dagger inlaid with gold and silver with an ornate handle and sheathed in an ornamental scabbard, is tucked into the sash and fastened to the back by a delicate silver chain. 

LIQUOR AND FOOD

Food and alcohol are an essential part of the festivities. It is the time for the Kodavas to feast after undergoing the hard labour of ploughing, sowing and transplanting of rice. Lunch is a veritable banquet. The Kodavas being non-vegetarian, preparations of pork, chicken and mutton predominate while homemade wine flows.

Kodagu is also famed for its ethnic cuisine, made from locally abundant ingredients such as coconut, mushrooms, bamboo shoot, banana and rice and seasoned with ginger, chilli, pepper, cardamom and the native kachumpuli (the distinctly-flavoured thick, local vinegar). The legendary pandi (pork) curry and kadambuttu (steamed rice dumplings) combo is a hot favourite. Many dishes reflect a combination of meat and wine. Rice is an integral part of the menu and rice noodles topped with a pungent curry is a very popular dish.

Vegetarians can try the local mushroom curry, redolent with the flavour of freshly picked wild mushrooms. There’s also a curry made with tender bamboo shoots that’s simply divine on its own or eaten with the local akki roti (rice rotis). We relished the other dishes like paaputt plain cake, and nooputt (string hoppers) noodles along with meat dishes like pandi curry, koli (chicken) and yerachi (meat) curries and also desserts like akki payasa (rice pudding).

In the evening, we witnessed the Ummathat dance which is the only female dance form of Kodagu. It was a treat to watch the graceful Kodava women in their colourful saris dance in a circling pattern to a lilting tune. The Coorg sari is worn with the pleats secured at the back like a fan and the end of the sari drawn under the left arm and fastened over the right with a pretty brooch or pin. The married women are identified by their vastra, a trailing georgette scarf covering their heads and tied at the nape of the neck, with the two ends draped elegantly over the shoulders.

Equally impressive was the bolak-aat which is performed by Kodava men to the resonant beat of drums.  Earlier, the festivities involved gathering in the local mandh (open ground) where physical contests, and sports including marksmanship, and various folk dances were conducted. Currently, most of these gatherings and contests are held in the Kodava Samajam in various places.

source: http://www.civilsocietyonline.com / Civil Society / Home> Travel / by Susheela Nair / September 29th, 2023

CNC Urges Revenue Dept. To Make Changes In Software To Implement Order

Mysore/Mysuru:

The Codava National Council (CNC) that has relentlessly fought for over 14 years for the inclusion of ‘Kodava/ Kodavaru’ in the Caste Certificate, instead of ‘Kodagaru,’ has urged the State Government to make the  relevant changes in the software to fully implement the Government decision.

CNC President Nandineravanda U. Nachappa said that though the Cabinet has accepted the recommendations from the Karnataka State Backward Commission and ordered the change from ‘Kodava’ and ‘Kodavaru’ instead of ‘Kodagaru’, the order has not been fed to the computer systems. Still, the Caste Certificates are being issued as ‘Kodagaru’ instead of ‘Kodava’, impacting the cultural and social values of the Kodava community.

In a memorandum submitted to Kodagu Deputy Commissioner yesterday, Nachappa urged the State Government to ask the Revenue Department to make changes in the software for the change to be physically reflected on the Caste Certificates.

Mentioning the legal battle fought by the CNC in the Karnataka High Court, Nachappa said that despite the Court order in December 2021, the Government has not taken the genuine demand of the Kodava community for consideration and implementation. “This is an administrative and Constitutional breach where the aspirations of a small community have been ignored,” he said.

Nachappa has urged the Government to clear the software hurdle to fully implement the order so that the mention of ‘Kodava’ in Caste Certificates becomes a reality.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 07th, 2023

Hollywood Stars Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones In Madikeri

Madikeri/Kushalnagar:

High-profile Hollywood stars Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, accompanied by their son Dylan, are on a tour of India following Michael’s honorary recognition at the International Film Festival (IFFA) in Goa where he received the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.

Currently, the family is exploring the enchanting region of Kodagu as part of their private tour. Post-IFFA in Goa, the family visited Tamil Nadu, where they visited the historic city of Thanjavur and the awe-inspiring Brihadishvara Temple — a magnificent Chola period temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its exquisite architecture.

Documenting their spiritual journey, the seasoned actor shared moments on social media, featuring the family offering prayers at the Temple adorned with garlands. Michael Douglas captioned the images, stating, “sightseeing with the best.”

Continuing their Indian sojourn, the family made a stopover at Kabini, enjoying a day at a secluded resort, before reaching Madikeri on Dec. 5. Choosing the serene Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa in Galibeedu village as their place of stay, the family explored the Mercara Downs Golf Club, engaging in a round of golf. Sources disclosed that Michael Douglas insisted on keeping their visit private.

Having visited India thrice before, mainly exploring the northern regions, Michael Douglas expressed a desire to delve into the southern part of the country this time. The family entrusted their travel plans to a New Delhi-based travel firm, utilising a chartered chopper for transportation. Impressed by the expansive 102-acre Golf Club, Michael Douglas and his family praised it as an ideal retreat for unwinding and spending quality family time. Their stay in Madikeri, Kodagu, is expected to continue for two to three days and details about their future travel plans remain confidential.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 07th, 2023

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100. Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28
India’s women’s doubles pair of Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa (Pic: File Pic)

Indian women’s doubles pair, Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto, jumped four places to reach world number 28 in the latest BWF rankings.

Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100.

Priyanshu Rajawat, who had reached the semi-finals in men’s singles, also gained a place to break into the top-30.


All other Indian singles players stayed static with HS Prannoy (8) remaining the top ranked shuttler from the country, followed by PV SIndhu (12), Lakshya Sen (17) and Kidambi Srikanth (24).

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty occupied the world number 2 spot, while Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand stayed at 19th position.

source: http://www.mid-day.com / Mid-Day / Home> Sports News> Other Sports News> Article / by PTI / December 05th, 2023

MLA A.S. Ponnanna Inaugurates Annual Get-Together Of Sri Kaveri Kodava Association

Mysore/Mysuru:

The annual get-together of Sri Kaveri Kodava Association, Mysuru East, was held at its premises in Vidyashankara Nagar in Mysuru yesterday.

Virajpet MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, who was the chief guest, inaugurated the programme by lighting the lamp.

Association President Puliyanda S. Devaiah presided. Kodava Samaja Mysuru President Ponjanda A. Ganapathy was the special invitee.

On the occasion, MLA Ponnanna felicitated Senior Members of the Association for their services to the causes of community, institutions, education and in general — Kuppanda M. Achaiah, Manipanda A. Muthanna and Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra Founder-Editor Kalyatanda B. Ganapathy, who received Hon. Doctorate from University of Mysore recently.

Sri Kaveri Kodava Association, Mysuru East,  runs an educational institution — The Kodagu Model School — from LKG to X Standard at Vidyashankara Nagar here.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 04th, 2023

‘ANVESHANE-2’ Project Expo Contest At CIT On Dec. 15

Ponnampet:

A unique project exhibition titled, ANVESHANE-2, aimed at inculcating scientific and research bent of mind among students leading to new perspectives, will be held at the Coorg Institute of Technology (CIT) here on Dec. 15.

The competitions would be held in three different groups. Students from SSLC, PUC and Diploma Engineering are eligible to participate in the event.

SSLC students can come up with projects relating to Science and Environmental Science and the winners of first three places will take home a cash prize of Rs. 8,000, Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 4,000 respectively.

Subjects for PU students for coming up with the projects relate to the streams of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. There are two cash awards in each of the category with the winner eligible to get Rs. 10,000 and the runner-up getting Rs. 6,000.

In the Diploma Engineering category, projects are related to the fields of Computer Science & Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Electronics & Communication Engineering. Cash award would be given in each of the categories. Winner will get Rs. 10,000 while runner-up will take home a sum of Rs. 6,000. A maximum of three teams are eligible to take part in the competitions with a maximum of four students in a team.

Students interested should register names before Dec. 5 in the google form issued to Colleges for registrations.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 03rd, 2023