Inauguration Of Kodagu Gowda Samaja’s New Auditorium

Kodagu Gowda Samaja President Thotambylaya E. Manohar said that the new auditorium of Kodagu Gowda Samaja at Vijayanagar Railway Layout in the city will be inaugurated on Dec. 23 at 9.30 am.

Addressing media persons at Pathrakarthara Bhavan in city yesterday, Manohar said the auditorium built on the top of the existing building will be inaugurated by Adichunchanagiri Mutt Seer Dr. Sri Nirmalananda-natha Swamiji and Adhi-chunchanagiri Mutt, Mysuru branch’s Someshwaranatha Swamiji. Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simmha, MLA K. Harishgowda, former MLAs L. Nagendra and Vasu, President of Kodagu Gowda Samaja Okkoota Soorthale R. Somanna,  former Corporator K.V. Sridhar and others  will participate.

Kodagu Gowda Samaja Vice-President Kuyyamudi B. Ramappa, Honorary Secretary Kuntikana S. Ganapathy, Assistant Secretary Kaleramma M. Nanaiah, Directors Naduvettira G. Lakshmana and Kombarana U. Basappa were present at the press meet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / December 20th, 2023

NGO revives border school in Kodagu by introducing smart class

The High School was on the verge of closure after three teachers posted at the school opted for transfers. The school is located on the Kerala-Kodagu border.

Smart class

Madikeri:

The Kannada High School of Karike, the border government school, is in a revival mode following the efforts of an NGO. It has now been turned into a smart class even as teachers have volunteered to take online classes for the rural kids.

The High School was on the verge of closure after three teachers posted at the school opted for transfers. The school is located on the Kerala-Kodagu border. It had just one permanent teacher this academic year who is also the acting Head Master. The residents of the village were fearful of the future of their kids. Nevertheless, the NGO Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM) has come to the aid of the students in this government school.

“SVYM was active in the district from 2017 as we introduced mobile science labs to the students of government schools after tying up with Rotary institutions. We were approached by the district education department to depute teachers to the border school at Karike,” explained Praveen Kumar S, the education head and CEO of SVYM.

As a first approach, SVYM requested the network of teachers volunteering with the NGO to take classes at the Karike School. Three teachers volunteered for the initiative.

“During the break or vacation period, the three teachers visited the school at Karike and conducted classes. Over 100 students of the school visited the institution during the Dasara holiday to be part of the classes,” he added.

As a second approach, SVYM called for more teachers to volunteer to teach in the institution.

“Under the initiative of Vignyana Vedike, SVYM has a big network of Science and Math teachers. These teachers are state awardees who volunteer with us to help support the education of government school kids. They visited Karike and taught the students,” he said.

Further, as the third approach, SVYM introduced smart classes at the school. Audio-visual study content developed by the NGO was used to teach the students Math and Science lessons and this arrangement will continue at the institution till the end of the academic year.

“The problem at the Karike school will find a permanent solution only with the appointment of teachers. Nevertheless, we have started online classes through smart class setup and this will continue regularly till the end of this academic year,” he confirmed.

SVYM has supported over 300 government schools and reached over 45000 students through its School Education Programme.

“We have been working across government schools in the state for the past 15 to 16 years. From providing learning resources, capacity building of staff and infrastructure building, we focus on empowering government schools to provide quality education to the students,” he concluded.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 22nd, 2023

Rare variety of lemons weigh 5 kg in Kodagu

HIGHLIGHTS

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg.

Madikeri:

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg. Local laborers and farmers are astonished at the sight of these unusually large garden lemons.

The unique lemons have thrived in the coffee estate of Mookonda Viju Subramani, a former Zilla Panchayat member and prominent social worker. The lemon plants, have reached a height of about 6 feet and bear lemons ranging from small to an impressive 5 kg in size.

Mookonda Viju Subramani, the owner of the plantation, shared the story behind the rare lemon variety, saying, “Four years ago, I purchased citrus fruits from the Mysuru market. I planted the seeds in the backyard, and within a few days, two saplings emerged. After transplanting them to the garden using organic manure, the plants grew for three years but did not produce flowers or fruits. Consequently, I was unable to identify the plant. A few months ago, the plant blossomed with large, jasmine-like flowers, which eventually transformed into pods. Over the next few months, these pods grew into enormous lemons.”

This particular lemon variety is rarely found in Italy and other European countries. Known for its adaptability to various climates, the oval fruits contain small seeds, and their dull skin encases juicy pulp. Often used in the preparation of pickles and cold drinks, the lemons also boast several health and medicinal benefits. The unexpected growth of these rare and massive lemons has sparked excitement and curiosity among locals in Polibetta, Kodagu.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by The Hans India, Hans News Service / December 25th, 2023

Youngster Abhin Rai from Kodagu emerges as champion of Indian National Rally Championship

Abhin was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally.

Abhin Rai (centre) awarded the Rising Star trophy at Kodagu; Abhin Rai in action during the INRC rally. (Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

A youngster from Kodagu is emerging as the favorite driver in the motor rally world even as he was declared the National Champion 2023 at the Indian National Rally Championship. Abhin Rai, a 24-year-old motor enthusiast from the district, shares his dream and experience at the recent rally.

Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) is a pan-India rally championship that was held across six stages this year. The rally began at Arunachal Pradesh and then was held at Chennai, Coimbatore, Kodagu, and Bengaluru.

Abhin enthusiastically took part in this rally and has emerged as the champion. He was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally. He also won the Rising Star award during the rally at Kodagu. 

“Ideal Racing has supported me throughout the rally and my Honda City was perfectly tuned by Amshad Pasha.

Each category has a different number of participants and they were over 60 in all. The overall experience was great despite facing technical issues in Hyderabad,” shared Abhin. He turned up first in three stages and fifth in Coimbatore. However, he did not finish the rally in Hyderabad due to technical troubles. Nevertheless, his unabated performance helped him emerge as the champion.

He started off rallying only in 2022 and he participated only at the K1000 rally last year. “I could not finish the rally then and it was like a test run,” he recalled.

However, in his second year as a rallyist, Abhin has made everyone’s head turn. “I started driving at a very young age and I drove at an autocross in a pickup. I later bought a race car without the knowledge of my folks and I attended races discreetly. However, after winning several trophies, I revealed my passion to my parents, who are now very supportive,” he added.

Apart from the national championship, Abhin has won 48 trophies in autocross even as he has bigger dreams for the sport.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 24th, 2023

Sangeetha Raviraj conferred with Gowramma Endowment Award

Writer Sangeetha Raviraj was presented with the Gowramma Endowment Fund Award given by the District Unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishat.

gowramma endowment award for sangeetha raviraj

Madikeri: 

Kannada Sahitya Parishat district unit president Sangeetha Raviraj was conferred with the Gowramma Endowment Fund Award for Kodagu.

She was felicitated with a shawl and fruits and tambourines at a function held at Saraswathi DEd College auditorium in the city on Monday. Speaking on the occasion, Sangeetha Raviraj said that valuable writings should increase. Only then will a new wave be created in the society. She also opined that creative writing will be seen.

In the past, writings upheld the value of society. Writings should come in that direction. She said better literature should be written.

She suggested that the Sahitya Parishat should take the lead in reprinting the book Gowramma of Kodagu.

Writer Kasthuri Govindammaiah said that literature hides the pain of the mind. He said that writing helps in documenting the happenings of the society.

Gowramma of Kodagu has written many stories and poems to highlight the ups and downs of the entire society. He said that the youth should be able to develop a taste, taste and fondness for literature.

It is a matter of happiness that a programme is being organized in the name of Gowramma, who has contributed immensely to the field of literature in Kodagu. The exception that Kodagu has not contributed to the field of literature is decreasing today. He said that it is highly self-evident that women today are not confined within the four walls but also pervade the field of literature.

He advised the students to take full advantage of the opportunity available in the competitive era and move forward.

Speaking as the keynote speaker, Smita Amritraj said that Gowramma’s stories are about questioning, protesting and highlighting the slants of society through literature.

Sreekumar, principal of Saraswathi D.Ed. College, said that the shortcomings of the society can be highlighted through literature. In this regard, he suggested that students should study the work of Gowramma of Kodagu.

Janapada Parishat district president B.G. Ananthasayana said that students should develop literary writing and share it with everyone. Similarly, scientific writings should come, he said.

Lokesh Sagar, president of the District Unit of The Sahitya Parishat, said, 5. Gowramma of Kodagu is the birth anniversary and is being celebrated as Literature Day. The reason why Kodagu has made a name for itself at the national level is the freedom struggle of Gowramma of Kodagu and her love for literature. Keeping this in mind, gowramma’s birth anniversary is being celebrated, he said.

There was talk that Kodagu was lagging behind in literature. However, this problem has been overcome in recent times and the role of women writers in this has been immense, he said. He said that various programmes are being organised through the district unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishat.

Baithadka Janaki Belyappa spoke. The winners of the competition were Sirigowri (1st), Aishwarya (2nd), Vishank (3rd) and Shravani (Consolation Prize).

Kishan Poovaiah, Diwakar, K.S. Ramesh, Sunitha and Muralidhar were present.

source: http://www.vijaykarnataka.in / Vijay Karnataka, Kannada / Home> Kannada News> Kodagu / by Vijay Karnataka / March 06th, 2018

Book On Freedom Fighters Pandyanda Belliappa And Seetha Belliappa Released

Siddapura (Kodagu):

“Soulful Sojourns: A Tale of Two Souls” — an autobiography on the lives of late freedom fighter couple Pandyanda Belliappa and Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa — was released at a programme organised  at Swarnamala Kalyana Mantapa in the town recently.

Speaking after releasing the book, United Kodava Organisation (UKO) President Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa said that Bommanda Savera Chengappa, granddaughter of freedom fighters late Pandyanda Belliappa, who is popularly known as ‘Kodagina Gandhi’ and his freedom fighter wife Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa, has scripted the book in English.

Pointing out that Pandyanda Belliappa, who had great concerns for social welfare, always  worked for the cause of the society, Manju Chinnappa said he is also considered as a pioneer in Co-operative movement in Kodagu. Elaborating on the contributions of the late freedom fighter in education sector, Manju Chinnappa said it was he (Pandyanda Belliappa) who got sanctioned the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College in Madikeri when Nehru was the Prime Minister. Stating that the two freedom fighters had made a mark in different fields, he called upon everyone to read the book in order to draw inspiration for doing social service.

‘Poomale’ newspaper editor Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah in his address, said that the younger generation should read books on such great achievers and draw inspiration from their work and lead a purposeful life.

The book author Bommanda Savera Chengappa said that he scripted the book for posterity to younger generation. Highlighting the achievements of her grandparents, she said that the book makes an interesting reading for everyone and draw inspiration from the freedom fighter couple.

Addanda Vittal Nanjappa, Col. Bommanda Dheeraj Chengappa, Tapas Devaiah, Neravanda Shanti Nanjappa, Kusuma Ayyappa, Pandyanda Vijay Belliappa, Field Marshal K.M.Cariappa Forum President Kandratanda Subbaiah, A. Thammu Poovaiah, Delhi Kodava Samaja President Machimanda Thammu Cariappa, Col. Mandepanda K. Ayyappa and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 24th, 2023

Seven-year-old Maya’s jottings posthumously published as a book

The book titled, ‘The girl who unleashed magic’, written by Maya Appachu, is the 78th book released by the forum.

A native of Kodagu, Maya is the daughter of Sanchita and Karthik Appachu, who live in the United States.

Madikeri : 

A posthumously published book written by a seven-year-old girl was released by the Kodava Makkada Koota in Madikeri. The book titled, ‘The girl who unleashed magic’, written by Maya Appachu, is the 78th book released by the forum.

A native of Kodagu, Maya is the daughter of Sanchita and Karthik Appachu, who live in the United States.

A student of Highcroft Drive Elementary School in the US, Maya was multi-talented. She used to maintain a diary filled with sketches in which she jotted down her encounters with fear, apprehensions and her experience in the new environment in the beginning days of her school. Her jottings have now been compiled into a book by the forum. 

Thanking the forum for publishing the book, Maya’s parents who took part in the book release event relived the memories of their daughter.  

Maya had an untimely death before she turned eight as she was diagnosed with Arteriovenous Malfunction (AVM). By donating organs, Maya found meaning even in death. The parents of Maya were honoured with the ‘Honour Bridge’ award for donating their daughter’s organs and a cherry tree has been planted at Maya’s school in her memory.

She was a child with many talents who found interest in various things. Besides classical music, dance, literature and art, Maya aimed to become an entomologist due to her interest in the study of insects.

“The books will be made part of all the school libraries in Kodagu to inspire the younger generation,” shared Bollajira Aiyappa, the president of the forum. The book has been translated into Kannada by writer Pushpa Devaiah.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Express News Service / December 23rd, 2023

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival

Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival
 Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah unveiling the logo of the Kodagu Hockey festival.

Madikeri: 

In a momentous event on Thursday, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah unveiled the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival, reinforcing the deep-rooted connection between Kodavas and the sport of hockey

Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

March, April, and May are the months when the spirit of hockey comes alive in Kodagu a tiny district of the state with unique culture. The Kodava Hockey Festival, colloquially known as the ‘Kodava Cup Hockey’ tournament, stands as a testament to the unique relationship between the Kodava community and the sport of hockey. The festival, a friendly tournament held among Kodava families, is an unparalleled celebration of unity and sportsmanship.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during the logo unveiling ceremony at the Home Office Krishna, expressed his support for the Kodava Hockey Festival. The event was attended by Virajpet MLA A S Ponnanna and representatives of the Kodava society, marking the significance of the festival in the region.

The Kodava Hockey Cup, initiated in 1997, was the brainchild of Pandanda Kuttappa and the Kashi brothers, retired employees of the State Bank of India and first-class hockey referees. The objective was to foster unity among Kodava families through a shared passion for hockey. The inaugural ‘Pandanda Cup’ tournament witnessed the participation of 60 families at the Karada village ground near Virajpet, with Kuttappa shouldering the financial expenses for the opening ceremony.

Over the years, the Kodava Hockey Festival has grown into the world’s largest hockey festival, making its mark in the Limca Book of Records, the Indian equivalent of the Guinness Book of Records. The tournament is a unique blend of competition, camaraderie, and cultural festivities, making it a cherished annual event for Kodava families.

The festival rotates among Kodava families each year, receiving widespread support and participation.

Families eagerly anticipate this sporting extravaganza, with many in the army making special arrangements to attend the tournament. The Kodava Hockey Festival, with its rich history and traditions, is poised to create yet another unforgettable chapter as it strives to secure a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

As the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival is unveiled, anticipation builds for the upcoming tournament, promising to showcase the enduring bond between Kodava and hockey in a spectacular display of hockey prowess and community spirit.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> India / by Diganth Kengeri / December 21st, 2023

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