Thimayya & Thimayya will remind people that Shubra Aiyappa exists: Shubra Aiyappa

Directed by Sanjay Sharma, Thimayya & Thimayya produced by Rajesh Sharma also features Anant Nag, Diganth, and Aindrita Ray.

A still from Thimayya & Thimayya

Shivarajkumar-starrer Vajrakaya (2015) marked model-turned-actor Shubra Aiyappa’s first step in the movies. After a long gap of seven years, she is back in Kannada cinema with Thimayya & Thimayya, which is set to release this week. “I had a film, titled John Seena, directed by Suni, which had me playing a unique role. Unfortunately, it did not take off,” says Shubra. 

Directed by Sanjay Sharma, Thimayya & Thimayya produced by Rajesh Sharma also features Anant Nag, Diganth, and Aindrita Ray.  When asked about the delay between her acting assignments, Shubra says, “When I entered the cinema, I didn’t have any formal training in acting. So I went to the New York Film Academy to do an acting course. Then, there was the pandemic, which gave people the feeling that I took a really long break. In fact, I did have some roles come my way, but I couldn’t really take them up. It was only Thimayya & Thimayya that excited me enough to get back to the cinema.” 

Owing to the sabbatical, many might not know of Shubra’s passion for acting. “In my head, I’m an actor. But the sabbatical did not prove my acting capabilities. In fact, at NYFA, I topped the class. But practically, things didn’t work out the way I wanted them to. So when I got a call from makers of Thimayya & Thimayya, I was happy and excited,” says Shubra, who adds that she is optimistic and feels that everything happens for a reason.”This is my time. Hope people notice my performance in Thimayya & Thimayya, and it will be a good restart to my career.” 

Talking about her role in Thimayya & Thimayya, the actor says that her character ‘Sowmya’ is similar to who she is. “When I got the narration from Sanjay Sharma, I felt the character was some. I am a very ambitious person. I am very organised. In the film, I play the hero’s backbone, mainly because he doesn’t have these attributes. It is my character that stabilises him and puts the character back on track. I play an important role in his journey.”

Talking about ad filmmaker-turned-director Sanjay Sharma, Shubra, who understands the world of modelling and advertising, says, “Sanjay understands the importance of the right work ethic, and the value of time. I felt he was a perfectionist, who never tolerated mediocrity. He ensured all the actors gave their best. It was nice to work with somebody like him. It was like going back to film school. 

With Thimayya & Thimayya, Shubra also fulfilled one other dream and was dubbed for herself in the film. “I’m happy to have dubbed for Sowmya,” says Shubra, listing out the roles coming her way post her sabbatical. 

Apart from the Rishi-starred Ramana Avatara, Shubra will also be seen in the Tamil film, Aganya. “The film is about a father-daughter relationship, and I am working with Aadukalam Naren on the project. I have 10 days of portions to shoot. Meanwhile, I hope Thimayya & Thimayya reminds people that Shubra exists, and more opportunities come my way,” she signs off.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Entertainment> Kannada / by Express News Service / November 22nd, 2022

Know Thy Coffee: HumbleBean is on a Mission to Spread Coffee Literacy

Bengaluru-based omnichannel coffee startup HumbleBean Coffee has launched a Coffee Academy in Coorg to educate people about the ‘complexity and diversity of a humble bean like coffee’.

Know thy Coffee: HumbleBean is on a mission to spread coffee literacy

Bimal might seem like a regular barista. But he’s not content to simply brew and serve cups of coffee. He wants every customer to know what they are going to sip. 

“I make sure they know their cup of coffee. I ask about the kind of taste they are looking for, and how strong they want their coffee. Most of the time, they go ahead with what I recommend even if they have something else in mind,” he says.

After losing his job at a high-end restaurant during the pandemic, Bimal joined HumbleBean Coffee as a barista. With no prior expertise in the sector, he was enrolled in a specialised course at HumbleBean. The course helped him understand the beverage better—starting from its plantation to the multiple brewing methods. 

HumbleBean Coffee runs a small brew bar tucked away under the lush green cover of Bengaluru’s Lavelle Road. On a regular day, you might find Bimal sniffing and tasting a sample from every cup he brews.

HumbleBean Coffeeis the brainchild of Soomanna Mandepanda and Puja Soomanna. Since 2017, the couple has been on a mission to make coffee consumption a more enjoyable and mindful experience. Their idea is to educate more people about the complexity and diversity “of a humble bean like coffee”. 

In 2021, they launched the HumbleBean Coffee Academy in Coorg to spread coffee literacy among the masses. The academy offers short-term courses for coffee enthusiasts, home brewers, students pursuing hotel management, and coffee entrepreneurs. 

The team of 22 people, including the co-founders, brew bar staff, and coffee academy experts, is based in Coorg and Bengaluru. At present, HumbleBean has only one coffee brew bar in Bengaluru and an online B2C channel that sells coffee beans of different types and roasts. A new coffee concept store is underway in Indiranagar which would replace the manual brew bar in a few weeks’ time. 

As per filings with the Registrar of Companies, HumbleBean made a revenue of approximately Rs 1.1 crore in FY21. 

In July 2022, the coffee startup raised an angel round of Rs 4.5 crore from undisclosed investors. 

Today, as Soomanna, Co-founder of HumbleBean, prepares his favourite pour-over, he recalls the days when he felt the need to clean up the coffee ecosystem. 

_______

“I wanted to get into the coffee ecosystem to build an Indian coffee company of global standards. I also wanted to orient farmers towards quality and help them to stay invested in agriculture,” he says. 

HumbleBean
HumbleBean Academy, Coorg

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Spreading coffee literacy

The main objective behind the coffee academy was to ensure everyone in the coffee ecosystem was well informed about the beverage.

The team began by addressing the absence of a feedback system for farmers who grow coffee. A feedback mechanism was essential to bring changes in their farming practices and improve the quality of the produce. 

“More than 85% of coffee farmers in India, mostly small and medium farmers, have never tasted their own coffee. They are unaware of how their coffee is appreciated around the world,” Soomanna says.

The coffee academy receives free coffee samples from more than 100 farmers across the country. The team prepares extensive reports on the sample quality and offers suggestions to farmers. The farmers bring in suggested changes in farming techniques and send new samples to the academy for further assessment.

“We test the samples again and buy their lot if the quality matches our parameters. Most of the time, we ask the farmers to quote a price instead of us fixing the price,” says Puja, Co-founder of HumbleBean, who looks after the B2C and hospitality side of HumbleBean. 

The academy offers courses that focus on the art of brewing, food pairing with coffee, and more. These courses can be as short as one day or three days (for beverage enthusiasts) or as long as three months (for students in hotel management colleges). They are priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 35,000.

HumbleBean has collaborated with a hotel management college in India to offer these courses for a semester. 

Puja believes there is a need to train baristas in the early years of hotel management. 

“Being a barista is more than serving a cup of coffee, especially today when manual brewing is finally getting recognised. That’s why we deliberately choose people who do not have any knowledge of coffee and are more receptive to knowledge,” she says.

Puja looks after the barista training course with Gaurav Ganapathi. A certified Q grader (a type of coffee evaluator), Gaurav leads the Coffee Academy in Coorg. He has been in the coffee industry since 2014 and previously worked with Tata Starbucks. 

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“Coffee is one of the most sustainable industries in the world; there is almost no carbon emission in the production process. The coffee academy is helping everyone in the ecosystem understand coffee as a plant better—its diversity in terms of species and types, different brewing techniques, and more,” Gaurav says.

Pastry chef Sana Kabra, who joined the HumbleBean team in March 2022, works closely with Puja and Gaurav and leads the food pairing courses at HumbleBean.

“Food pairing is an important part of the coffee experience. What kind of pastry would go best with a pour-over, what should be the level of the roast or grind of your coffee to make it go well with a croissant…these things require mindful consumption and a lot of trial and error,” Sana says. 

HumbleBean

Overcoming the pandemic

Like any other brick-and-mortar business, HumbleBean was hit hard by the pandemic. Their first manual brew bar in Residency Road, Bengaluru, launched in 2019, was shut down due to operational difficulties.

Around the same time, the brand collaborated with a high-end retail outfit GoNative to set up its model brew bar on Lavelle Road.

The HumbleBean team took the pandemic as an opportunity to study and gather data about customer perception of manually brewed coffees, and coffees served from small and medium farms, and studied the unit economics of a coffee brand. They also worked on creating a range of coffee beverages and the delivery mechanism.

“During this lean time, we also consolidated our backend work, the academy, small and medium farm outreach, plantation management, flavour science with regards to food pairing along with coffee. We built a solid core team of subject matter specialists in plantation management, roasting, and flavour science. Most of them are third-generation small farmers who have spent time in large coffee companies,” Soomanna says.

Brewing a bright future

According to a report published by Research and Markets, Indian retail coffee is largely dominated by the southern region and is projected to reach over $253.8 million by 2025, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 21.04% from 2017 to 2025. 

HumbleBean aims to tap this growing market while competing with major global brands like Starbucks, Barista, Tim Hortons, and Indian brands like Blue Tokai, Third Wave Coffee Roasters, Araku etc. 

“We know about the competitive landscape but we also know that everyone who walks into our cafe either knows their coffee very well or is passionate to learn more about coffee. We are banking primarily on word of mouth over other marketing strategies,” Soomanna says.

HumbleBean plans to launch its concept store in Indiranagar, Bengaluru. It would also serve as the second location for the coffee academy and as the second manual brew bar. 

The startup also has plans to expand to other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. 

“The final goal remains the same: establish HumbleBean as an Indian global brand that is sustainable, grounded, and invested in the place of production,” Soomanna says.

(The copy was updated to correct a typo in the name of the co-founder)

source: http://www.yourstory.com / YourStory.com / Home> Startups / by Pooja Rajkumar / September 20th, 2022

Interview / Tata Starbucks CEO, Sushant Dash

India has long been a tea drinking nation but it also has deep roots as one of the world’s major coffee producers. Tata Starbucks CEO Sushant Dash speaks to 5THWAVE about flying the flag for coffee in India and how the country’s younger consumers are leading a new wave of café culture.

Tata Starbucks CEO, Sushant Dash | Photo credit: Tata Starbucks

With more than two decades’ beverage industry experience under his belt, Tata Starbucks CEO Sushant Dash is now focused on harnessing India’s huge potential as a coffee drinking nation. That’s no mean feat in a country where tea has long been the beverage of choice, but it is a challenge he is relishing – and his efforts are yielding significant results. 


Following the disruption of the pandemic, Tata Starbucks is tapping into new opportunities in the vast Indian market and now operates more than 320 stores in 37 cities across the country, having achieved record 72% revenue growth in 2022. 


First joining Tata Global Beverages in 2000, Dash held senior management roles across the conglomerate’s international beverage divisions and was later part of the core team that launched Starbucks in India in 2012. 


After being appointed CEO of Tata Starbucks in 2021, Dash is now focused on catalysing further growth for Starbucks in India’s fast-developing branded coffee shop market. 


However, as Dash notes, that growth has been delivered through a long-term strategic focus, with most consumers historically unfamiliar with out-of-home coffee consumption. 


“India is a tea market,” he says of the countryʼs 1.4 billion citizens. 


“If I look at in-home consumption 90% penetration is for tea; coffee is around 11-12% in terms of overall penetration.” 
 

However, Dash notes the country’s coffee producing southern states as outliers, where traditional filter coffee consumption is far more widespread. 


Times are changing, however, as consumers across India develop a taste for premium coffee and café experiences. Both in-home and out-of-home coffee consumption have steadily grown across India over the last decade, with Starbucks playing a key role in the ascent of café culture. Today, Dash pegs India’s coffee shop market growth at 9-10% CAGR. 

“Gen Z and Millennials constitute 50%-plus of our population, and that is contributing to the growth of coffee consumption” 


The new coffee crop  


It may come as a surprise that India is the world’s seventh largest coffee producer, yielding around 329,000 metric tonnes in 2022, with the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu accounting for over 90% of national production. 
 

Tata Coffee is the undeniable giant of India’s coffee industry, managing 19 coffee plantations across 8,000 hectares and making it the ideal partner for Starbucks to vertically integrate coffee resources and expertise through its joint venture. 


Reflecting on a decade of growth for Tata Starbucks in India, Dash says there has been a seismic shift in coffee consumption, notably led by the country’s younger, increasingly well-travelled and digitally connected consumers. 


“Gen Z and Millennials constitute 50%-plus of our population, and that is contributing to the growth of coffee consumption,” he says. 
 

Dash is now building on the foundations laid by his team more than a decade ago. After establishing the Starbucks brand in major cities across the country, his current focus is now to grow the brand in smaller urban centres as coffee culture catches on. 


“The first eight-to-nine years were about understanding what makes the business successful in India, how to replicate what Starbucks is known for in terms of its coffee expertise and overall experience,” he says. 


After honing Starbucks’ approach in India, which has evolved to include a range of store formats, including larger showcase outlets alongside smaller convenience formats, including drive-thru, Dash says his priority is to scale this approach across the country. 


“Priority one has been about expansion, but expansion in a mindful manner. We will continue to give the core of what the brand stands for in terms of the Starbucks experience in terms of coffee expertise,” he says. 


“We serve nearly 400,000 consumers a week, which is a phenomenal number and just shows us the brand love we have.” 

Interior of the Starbucks Reserve store in Mumbai | Photo credit: Tata Starbucks

Paying homage to India’s rich and diverse culinary traditions has also been a key part of tailoring Starbucks’ international offer to the market. Its food menu has been inspired by Indian favourites, enabling customers to enjoy a kakori kebab wrap or masala chicken croissant with a traditional masala chai or Indian filter coffee. 
 

Unique to the Indian market, Tata Starbucks’ ‘Picco’ beverage size is a nod to small ‘kulhad’ terracotta tea and coffee cups used throughout India and caters to a widespread preference for smaller beverage volumes. 


Indicating Starbucks is gaining widespread appeal in India, Dash points to recent successes opening stores away from India’s vast metropolises in the country’s smaller towns and cities, such as Jalandhar, Anand, Nagpur and Calicut. 


“We are getting the same love and affection and numbers in those cities as in the bigger cities, which just goes to show that people are looking for coffee experiences out-of-home. 


“In terms of our 12-month financial year we opened around 58 stores this year and 12 new cities and will continue to run at that rate or maybe slightly higher,” he says. 

Convenience in the cup 


Opening smaller, nimbler store formats has been another key driver of Tata Starbucks’ rapid growth over the last year, enabling the coffee chain to expand efficiently and open stores appropriate to their location. 
 

The first drive-thru location opened on the Chandigarh-Ambala highway in mid-2020, but Dash highlights delivery as one of the chain’s most promising convenience channels in the post-pandemic trading environment. 


“Today, delivery is around 11% of turnover,” he says. “Pre-Covid the figure was around 4%, so it has grown significantly. Even as the pandemic recedes and people have returned to stores, we still see delivery retaining that contribution and I think that is a trend that is here to stay.” 


Mobile ordering and pay were also introduced by Starbucks during the pandemic, and although making up a relatively small proportion of sales today, will remain long-term fixtures of the Starbucks experience in India, Dash adds. 

“Priority one has been about expansion, but expansion in a mindful manner” 


Next stop, specialty  


Convenience is yielding positive returns for Tata Starbucks, but Dash maintains that a diverse eco-system of market-appropriate store formats will be key to the brand’s success. 


“We will not over-index one format, we will open stores appropriate for the market,” he says. 


Adding to that diversity, in October 2020 Tata Starbucks marked its 10th anniversary by opening India’s first Reserve outlet in Fort, Mumbai. 


Offering a range of small-batch single origin coffees served by Starbucks’ master ‘black apron’ baristas, Dash says the store will cater to Indian consumers who have followed Starbucks’ journey in the country from the beginning and have developed a taste for more sophisticated varieties. 


“We wanted to give that elevated experience to consumers who have been here with us for the last 10 years,” he says. 
 

“There is definitely a market for specialty coffee as the market matures. In terms of the evolution of people’s understanding of coffee, what they want from coffee is also increasing.” 


With India producing its own crop of successful coffee businesses alongside a growing international segment, Starbucks’ role in introducing elevated coffee shop experiences to consumers is evident and demonstrated by the growing popularity of café culture across the country. 
 

This article was first published in Issue 14 of 5THWAVE magazine.

source: http://www.worldcoffeeportal.com / World Coffee Portal / Home> Coffee Industry Reports / March 24th, 2023

Karnataka HC directs Kodagu administration to give land to KSCA

Karnataka HC directs Kodagu administration to give land to KSCA

Madikeri :

Karnataka high court has directed the Kodagu administration to hand over 11 acres of land to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) within two weeks to build a cricket stadium.

The KSCA had filed a writ petition in this regard. The land is supposed to be granted at Hodduru village.

Earlier some of the local villagers demanded more than an acre of land for the graveyard for a backward community  out of 12.70 acres of land granted by the district administration to KSCA for the cricket stadium. However, after several years of protests and fights during previous deputy commissioners’ administration, recently the present Kodagu DC Satheesha BC had settled the dispute by agreeing to give 50 cents of land to be used for the graveyard.

However, this compromise did not work, and a group of villagers continued their agitations and the district administration did not officially transfer the 12.20 acres of land to KSCA.

When these agitations became a hindrance for the scheduled work commencement of the Rs 100-crore stadium project, the KSCA had filed a writ petition in the high court through its representative CS Devaiah through senior counsel KN Phanindra. The petitioner made the respondents as the principal secretary of the state, revenue department, Kodagu DC, AC, Madikeri taluk tahsildar, DD of land records and Kodagu SP.

Following this, high court judge R Devdas passed an order on March 10. The order mentions, “the petitioner KSCA was initially granted 12.70 acres. After due deliberations,  the KSCA agreed to reduce 50 cents of land. Inspite of this the land was not handed over. On going through the said communication, it is clear that the district administration was once again pressurised by the local villagers to further reserve an extent of 50 cents of land for the purpose of burial ground, because the DC had earlier suggested to KSCA to further reduce 50 cents to allot for villagers out of 12.20 cents and the remaining 11.70 acres of land will be handed over to KSCA.”

The judge further ordered, “The DC to proceed and ensure that the possession of 11.70 acres of land in Sy. No. 167/1 A at Hodduru village is handed over to the petitioner  and if needed Kodagu SP has to give protection to ensure that the process of handing over possession is completed within two weeks after receiving order copy by the DC.”

Kodagu DC has received the judgment copy on March 18. DC Satheesha BC said: “As per the high court order, the issue will be settled and within the court directed period. The land records pertaining to the order would be handed over to KSCA”.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> City News> Mysuru News / by TNN, G Rajendra / March 22nd, 2023

Coorg’s Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Coorg's Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

If you’re looking for an adventure, Coorg is the place to be. With its rolling hills, dense forests, and rushing rivers, this southern Indian state is a paradise for nature lovers. And while most visitors flock to the popular towns and attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for an adventure in Coorg, book rooms at the Evolve Back Coorg resort. Nestled in the midst of a 300-acre coffee and spice plantation, this luxurious resort offers a unique blend of modern comforts and traditional Kodava hospitality. 

Exploring Coorg’s Hidden Waterfalls

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a gorgeous district in Karnataka, India. It’s known for its coffee plantations, lush greenery, and breathtaking views. It’s also home to some hidden gems, like waterfalls.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Coorg is the perfect place. There are several hidden waterfalls throughout the district, and they’re all worth exploring. Here are a few of our favourites:

Irupu Falls: Irupu Falls is one of the most popular hidden waterfalls in Coorg. It’s located in the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and it’s a beautiful spot for hiking and picnicking. The falls are about 60 feet tall, and they’re surrounded by lush greenery.

Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is another popular spot for hiking and picnicking. It’s located in the Madikeri fort, and it’s a short hike to the falls. The falls are about 30 feet tall, and they flow into a small pool.

Mandalpatti Falls: Mandalpatti Falls is a hidden gem that’s definitely worth exploring. It’s located in a small village called Mandalpatti, and it’s a short hike to the falls. The falls are about 50 feet tall, and they flow into a small pool.

Trekking Through Coorg’s Lesser-Known Trails

Looking for a unique adventure in Coorg? Check out some of the lesser-known trails in this beautiful region of Karnataka. From easy nature walks to more challenging treks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular trails is the Raja’s Seat, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is suitable for all fitness levels and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

For a longer trek, head to Brahmagiri Hill, which is the tallest peak in Coorg. The trek can take anywhere from 4-8 hours, depending on your fitness level, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking.

If you’re looking for a truly challenging trek, then the Tadiandamol Trek is definitely for you. At over 5,700 feet, it’s the highest peak in Coorg, and the trek can take up to 10 hours to complete. However, the views from the top are more than worth the effort!

Coorg’s unexplored wildlife sanctuaries

The Western Ghats, which run parallel to the coast of southwestern India, are home to some of the country’s most biodiverse and beautiful landscapes. Coorg, a district in Karnataka, is one of the best places to explore the Ghats. With its verdant hills, winding rivers, and dense forests, Coorg is a nature lover’s paradise.

There are several wildlife sanctuaries in Coorg that are worth exploring. These sanctuaries are home to a variety of flora and fauna and offer visitors the opportunity to see some of the region’s most beautiful scenery.

Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary is one of the most popular sanctuaries in Coorg. The sanctuary is located on the banks of the Cauvery River and is home to a variety of birds, including pelicans, storks, and herons. Visitors can take boat rides through the sanctuary to get a closer look at the birds.

The Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is another great place to see Coorg’s wildlife. The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and elephants, as well as a variety of other animals. Visitors can take jeep safaris through the sanctuary to see the animals up close.

The Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is another great place to see Coorg’s wildlife. The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and elephants, as well as a variety of other animals. Visitors can take jeep safaris through the sanctuary to see the animals up close.

The Nagarhole National Park is another great place to see Coorg’s wildlife. The park is home to tigers, leopards, and elephants, as well as a variety of other animals. Visitors can take jeep safaris through the park to see the animals up close.

OffroadingAnd Camping In Coorg’s Rugged Terrain

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Coorg? Look no further than the region’s rugged terrain! From camping to offroading, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Coorg’s great outdoors.

One of the best ways to explore Coorg’s rugged terrain is by 4×4. There are plenty of offroad trails to choose from, each offering a different challenge. If you’re new to offroading, there are plenty of companies that offer guided tours.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed adventure, camping is a great option. There are plenty of scenic camping spots in Coorg, and you can even go camping in the wild if you’re feeling adventurous.

Uncovering Coorg’s Ancient Temples And Ruins

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a district in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its natural beauty, as well as its ancient temples and ruins.

The district is home to a number of ancient temples, some of which date back to the 9th century. The most notable of these is the Kaveri temple, which is located in the town of Kushalnagar. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Kaveri and is one of the most important temples in the district.

Other notable temples include the Nalknad Shiv temple, which is located in the village of Nalknad, and the Amriteshwara temple, which is located in the town of Madikeri.

In addition to its temples, Coorg is also home to a number of ancient ruins. The most notable of these is the fort of Madikeri, which was built in the 16th century. This fort is now in ruins, but it is still an important historical site.

Other notable ruins include the Vijayanagar fort, which is located in the town of Kushalnagar, and the Nalknad Palace, which is located in the village of Nalknad.

Coorg is a beautiful district with a lot to offer. Its ancient temples and ruins are a testament to its rich history, and its natural beauty is sure to take your breath away. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Coorg is the perfect destination.

Coorg’s Secret Spice Plantations And Organic Farms

Deep in the heart of Coorg lies a hidden world of spice plantations and organic farms. This little-known region is home to some of the best spices in the world, as well as a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Coorg is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The region’s lush green landscapes and cool climate make it a perfect getaway from the heat of the plains.

Organic farms in Coorg are known for their high-quality produce. The region’s temperate climate is ideal for growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Coorg’s spices, in particular, are world-renowned for their flavour and aroma.

Conclusion

Coorg is a beautiful district in Karnataka, India, that is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From hidden waterfalls and lush green forests to ancient temples and historical sites, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Coorg. And with so many off-the-beaten-path adventures to be had, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

source: http://www.nerdbot.com / Nerd Bot / Home> Nerd Voices> My Health/Lifestyle / by Breana Ceballos / March 29th, 2023

Magicsip Is Set To Redefine The Coffee Experience With Its D2C Launch

The Coorg-based coffee brand is all set to hit the shelves and offer 100 per cent natural coffee to aficionados

Magicsip’s gourmet coffee offerings and sustainability commitments set it apart from the competition

Magicsip, the homegrown coffee brand, is pleased to announce the launch of its direct-to-consumer (D2C) coffee business on the 1st of March 2023, offering a range of 100 per cent natural coffee range to enthusiasts. The launch of this brand is an exciting opportunity for coffee lovers to enjoy a cup of high-quality, flavourful coffee at affordable prices.

Magicsip was founded by two childhood friends who grew up amidst the enriching aroma of coffee in the charming plantations of Coorg. Their quest for genuine coffee prompted them to create a brand that was free of any harmful chemicals. Although they successfully achieved the authentic taste they desired, their thirst for knowledge and growth drove them to explore naturally curated blends.

The brand’s vision and mission are dedicated to making 100 per cent natural coffee accessible and affordable to everyone, directly sourced from their Coorg estates, and making a positive impact on the world with one cup of magical coffee at a time, with a passion for excellent coffee and a commitment to sustainability.

“We have seen a drastic change in the way people look at their daily products post-COVID. There has been a huge shift in the need for 100 per cent natural foods. This is where we are looking to make a huge difference as our coffee is sourced from our plantations, and all processes are handled by us until the last mile delivery to the consumers. Ahead of our D2C launch, we promise to deliver premium quality coffee directly from our estates in Coorg that is rich in flavour and can be consumed anywhere, anytime. We have also entered the gourmet coffee market with 7 new products including French vanilla, nutty hazelnut, and many others.” said Mr D. H. Soofi, the Director of the firm.

The launch of Magicsip’s D2C coffee brand marks the beginning of a new chapter for the brand, with plans for future expansion, including entering the Coffee-dip bag market and in expanding their Modern Trade market by Q2 2023, he added.

At Magicsip, we’re on a mission to make 100 per cent natural coffee accessible and affordable for everyone. Our coffee is directly sourced from the picturesque estates of Coorg, where the perfect blend of climate and altitude creates a truly unique and delicious flavour profile.

With a passion for excellent coffee and a commitment to sustainability, we’re dedicated to making a positive impact on the world, one cup of magical coffee at a time. Our instant coffee is available online and at select stores across Karnataka.

Visit our website,www.magicsip.co, to experience the true magic of coffee and join us in our quest for a better world, sip by sip.

source: http://www.businessworld.in / BW Business World / Home / March 30th, 2023

117th Birth Anniversary Of Gen. K.S. Thimayya

The 117th Birth Anniversary of General K.S. Thimayya will be jointly celebrated by Kodava Samaja, Mysuru, Kodava Samaja Cultural and Sports Club, Mysuru and Shri Kaveri Kodagu Mahila Sangha, Mysuru, at Kodava Samaja premises in Vijayanagar I Stage here on March 31 at 10.30 am.  

Samaja President Mechanda M. Shashi Ponnappa, Club President Kuttimada D. Muthappa, Sangha President Ponjanda Lovely Appaiah, office-bearers and members will be present on the occasion.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / March 29th, 2023

Tales of the Coast in the Capital

Chef Naren Thimmaiah brings the flavours of Karavalli to Varq, a pioneer of award-winning modern Indian fine-dining

The timeless Taj Mahal, New Delhi and its award winning restaurant Varq proudly welcomed the culinary legend of the south – Karavalli from Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road. This year, as Varq embarks on its 15th year anniversary voyage, it will feature unique gastronomic pop-ups, new innovations and reinvented concepts in the year ahead.

Varq, symbolic of preciousness, luxury and elegance, is the birth place of modern Indian cuisine in the Capital. Karavalli’s voyage to Varq, was the perfect marriage of authentic Indian south-west coastal cuisine with contemporary flair and artistic presentation. The unique pop-up presented an exquisite experience wherein culinary legend Chef Naren Thimmaiah, from Karavalli, showcased a special coastal menu celebrating authentic flavours and treasured recipes.

The uniquely curated presentation included dishes like Malabar Prawn Roast, Meen Porichathu (Shallow Fried Black Pomfret), Calamari Fry, Attirachy Ularthu (Lamb Roast) Chattambade (Fried Lentil Patties), Patrade (Colocasia Leaf Roll), Chevod Balchao (Lobster in Pickled Spice), Alappuzha Meen Curry (Alleppy Fish Curry), Pachakkari Stew (Vegetable Stew), Kashi Halwa (Ah Gourd Pudding) and Ragi Manni (Finger Millet Pudding).

Celebrated Chef Naren Thimmaiah, Executive Chef, Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road said, “I am delighted to return to the iconic Taj Mahal, New Delhi and its renowned restaurant Varq. Karavalli’s coastal delicacies have made their way into the heart of the South and we can’t wait to share our passion with patrons of Delhi-NCR. We take pride in our authenticity, the promise of quality and the connection with our roots. With the capital’s bustling culture of food, there couldn’t have been a better place than Varq, the birth place of modern Indian cuisine in New Delhi, to showcase our special Karavalli culinary art.”

Speaking on the occasion, Chef Arun Sundararaj, Director of Culinary Operations at Taj Mahal, New Delhi said, “We have been committed to offering immersive dining experiences to our patrons. Varq has been the one stop dining destination for celebrating the unique flavours of India, pop-ups by Michelin Starred Chefs from around the globe and for curating culinary art and innovation. Chef Naren Thimmaiah is a legend in the epicurean world and we are humbled to welcome him once again at Varq.  The confluence of Karavalli and Varq will present a tantalizing experience of exotic coastal recipes combined with fine dining with art.”

 Chef Naren Thimmaiah has been the face of the iconic Karavalli for over two decades. He holds the distinction of participating in the World Gourmet Summit held at Singapore in the year 2005. In February 2009, at the Government of India, National Tourism awards held at New Delhi, Naren Thimmaiah was adjudged as the Best Chef of India. Economic Times rated Chef Naren Thimmaiah among Top 10 Chefs of India – 5th place. December 2018, Times Food & Nightlife Awards – Chef Naren Thimmaiah was awarded Chef of the Year.  In August 2019, at the Eazydiner Awards, Naren Thimmaiah was awarded The Lifetime Achievement Award. In March 2022, he was recognized among the Top 10 Chefs in India by Culinary Culture.

source: http://www.bwhotelier.businessworld.in / BWHotelier.com / Home / by BW Online Bureau / March 27th, 2023

Get E-Prasad From Bhagandeshwara, Talacauvery Temples In Kodagu

Madikeri:

An e-Prasad initiative has been launched at Sri Bhagandeshwara and Talacauvery Temples that are run by the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowment (Muzrai) Department.

The Department has tied up with India Post for delivering the prasad from the temples to the devotees. Kodagu Deputy Commissioner B.C. Satish gave a start to the initiative yesterday.

The prasadam box contains 100 ml Theertha (holy water) from the Talacauvery Brahmakundike (holy pond), Panchakajjaya from Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple in Bhagamandala, Kumkum and sandalwood paste. 

Devotees can book the prasad on India post website www.indiapost.gov.in or by calling the toll-free number 18002666868. e-Prasad costs Rs. 300. If paid, the e-prasad will be delivered to the doorstep by post and the facility is available all over India.

The prasadam box will be delivered within four to five days of the money being paid. However, the facility is not open for devotees abroad and will be open for devotees who cannot make it to the Temples.

Steps will be taken to increase prasad distribution after devotees’ response, the DC said. Additional DC and Bhagamandala Sri Bhagandeshwara and Talacauvery Temple Administrator Dr. Nanjundegowda, Post Office Manager Ramesh Babu, Temple Executive Officer M.S. Dore, Temple Paarupathegara K.T. Ponnanna were present.

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

State Constitutes Kodava Development Corporation

Community welcomes Government’s long-pending decision

Madikeri:

The State Government yesterday notified the constitution of the Karnataka State Kodava Development Corporation. This comes just days after Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai made an announcement in Kodagu during the inauguration of the Appachattolanda Hockey Festival that the Corporation will soon be constituted. 

The notification stated that the newly constituted Corporation will strive for the comprehensive development of the Kodava community.

Virajpet MLA K.G. Bopaiah has thanked the Chief Minister for constituting the Corporation. “I had personally led a large delegation and met the Chief Minister underlining the importance of constituting a Board or a Corporation for the development of the community. Though this was a long-pending demand, the Chief Minister has notified it now,” he said.

People of Kodagu are thankful to the Government as the Corporation will exclusively strive for the development of the unique culture and distinct customs of Kodavas, he added.

The Kodava Development Corporation was one of the main and long-pending demands of the Kodava community. Expressing his happiness over the constitution of the Corporation, Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa of the United Kodava Organisation, who was the force behind the demand, told Star of Mysore this morning that it is a huge victory for the community.

“Kodavas have played a crucial role in taking the State forward and reaching newer heights. We have unique tradition, customs, heritage and culture that needs to be protected and the Corporation is a huge step in this regard. The community has played a vital role in the country’s defence sector and sports field, earning national and international accolades, he added.

Though there are notable achievements from the community, Kodavas have remained politically weak when compared to many other communities in Karnataka.

“The State Government has finally honoured the genuine demand of a political and cultural minority. It is a well-deserved gift for the distinct community and the complete credit goes to CM Basavaraj Bommai, former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, MLA K.G. Bopaiah, former MLC Veena Achaiah, Congress leader and former Advocate General A.S. Ponnanna, other MLAs, MLCs and largely the community,” Manju Chinnappa added.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 21st, 2023