The Annual Kodava Convention in North America is scheduled to take place on Sept. 2 and 3, 2023, in the San Francisco Bay Area, famously known as Silicon Valley. The convention will culminate on Sept. 3, coinciding with the Kodava community’s Kailpoldh festival. The inaugural day’s events will start at 5 pm.
This convention is a tradition spanning approximately 15 years. This time, over 500 Kodavas and their families from across the United States have registered to participate in the event, which is jointly organised by around 40 Kodava families.
According to the organisers, the two-day event will see the participation of Kodava guests from around the world. They have received well-wishes from notable Kodavas, including individuals from the military, sports, and the entertainment industry.
Registration had to be closed due to limited seating capacity. Local families will come together to showcase the cultural events that reflect the deep-rooted Kodava heritage and their unique talents, as stated by the organisers.
The programme will feature a blend of traditional and cultural events, including Baalo Paat performances, Kailpodh Ayudha Puja, Kodava cultural dances, Kodava Koota updates, an entrepreneurial mixer, a Kodava cultural skit, and the traditional Bolakaat.
This convention serves as a gathering for Kodava brethren from across North America, providing an opportunity to meet, learn and celebrate the rich Kodava culture. This year’s convention is aptly named ‘namme-by-the-bay’ and promises to offer attendees a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the world of Kodava tradition, unique attire, art, cuisine, culture and the deities.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 02nd, 2023
An ongoing show has mounted paintings of pristine forests of Kodagu and river Cauvery that is sacred to the region.
The month-long show by multi-disciplinary artist Bhavani G S is called ‘Forest’.
Many of the 30 paintings on display teem with mushrooms, butterflies, berries, deer and elephants and they are inspired by Bhavani’s childhood memories of growing up in a coffee estate in Somwarpet in north Kodagu.
“The forest patch adjacent to our estate was untouched. I would see wild cats, wild fig trees, insects and butterflies. I would go collect snakeskin against my mother’s wishes. I would hear jackal howl. I would pick kallivoo (wild Poinsettia). But now homestays and safari tours have come up and global warming has disturbed the ecological balance on Kodagu as a whole,” says the 50-year-old, who shuttles between Kodagu and Bengaluru for work.
Some paintings capture the polluted state of Cauvery, drawing from years of journey she has taken along the river. It takes 10,000 litres of water to manufacture a single pair of jeans, and 1.5 to 3 litres for one litre of soft drinks, she talks about how relentless consumerism is depleting our water resources. These are watercolour works on paper, and acrylic on canvas.
On view till August 31 (closed on Sundays), 11 am to 7 pm, at Ambara, Halasuru.
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> India> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Team Metrolife / August 10th, 2022
Suman hails from a family of coffee planters in Coorg
Embracing challenges as they come, Suman Nanaiah prides herself in curating out-of-the box personalised experiences for her guests. She started her career in 1996 and is now the Area General Manager of the Royal Orchid Group of Hotels in Mysuru.
Hailing from a family of coffee planters from Coorg, she embraced hospitality early on as a part of her culture. Crediting the same for her successful career in the industry, Suman has never looked back. Apart from involving her team in challenging projects, she also strives to recognise each team member’s strengths and weaknesses, and aims to help them streamline their efforts to achieve their goals. Keeping a sharp focus on the inputs provided by her team and taking into consideration their feedback, she is also a thorough decision maker. On days she is not busy tending to guests, she can be found in the jungles of South India with her son tracking big cats or pampering her taste buds while spending time with her family.
* What was your first hospitality job and at what age? Guest Service Associate at 26.
* How would you describe your personal leadership style? Integrity, clear communication, goal-setting and employee motivation.
* One drink/dish travellers should not miss at the metropole? Our wide variety of succulent kebabs at the Tiger Trail Restaurant. If looking for a combination then the achari murgh tikka with our in-house cocktail, Caipirojka.
* What steps is the property taking to ensure sustainability? Staff retention, recycling and waste reduction management, sourcing local and fresh seasonal produce, and energy and water conservation.
* Any particularly funny incident you recall with the guests? Once we arranged a wedding at the hotel and were informed that a VIP guest would arrive. We were told to ensure the grandest welcome, putting me and the entire team on our toes. Little did we know that the VIP guest was the groom’s best man at the wedding–Mirchi, his beagle, who travelled in his chauffeur driven car all the way from Mumbai.
* Any strategic change that you implemented owing to the COVID-19 pandemic? The foremost was staying connected with our guests through various digital channels and offering stress-free cancellation policies. We also enhanced our operational protocols by working closely with all local government health authorities.
* If not hospitality, what was your second career choice? Animal rescue and welfare sector.
source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook Traveller / Home> Travel News> Story / by Simrran Gill / November 04th, 2020
The grand entrance gate at the Paadi Igguthappa Temple in Kakkabbe, constructed at a cost of Rs. 12 lakh, was inaugurated by former Kodagu District Minister M.R. Seetharam. The event took place yesterday, and the funding for the gate was generously provided by Seetharam’s family.
Speaking on the occasion, Seetharam said that the gate’s construction and inauguration were made possible by the blessings of Lord Igguthappa. He highlighted that it was his family’s desire to contribute to this endeavour.
Seetharam also mentioned that the concrete road leading to the temple, built earlier for the convenience of devotees, still requires some finishing touches in the middle section, which will be completed in the near future.
Seetharam and his family received praise from both the Temple Committee and devotees for their generous donation towards this noble cause.
Among those present were President of Akhila Kodava Samaja and Temple Devathakka Parandanda Suman Kaverappa, President of the Devotees’ Group Kandanda Joyappa, Kaddaniyanda Harish Bopanna, Seetharam’s wife Shrithi Seetharam, children Raksha Ramayya, Sundar Ram, Lalitha Nandakumar and Kaliyanda Harry Mandanna, Parandanda Dolly, Bachamanda Poovanna, Lava Chinnappa, Kaliyanda Sampan Aiyappa, Pandanda Naresh, Bidatanda Thammaiah, Temple Parupathedara Paradanda Prince Thammaiah and Revenue Supervisor Ravikumar.
On this occasion, Seetharam contributed by performing rituals including the ‘Thula Bhara’ ceremony, adhering to the temple’s procedures. The rituals were carried out under the guidance of temple priests Kushabhat, Jagadish, and Shreekant.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / August 28th, 2023
The third annual get-together of Field Marshal Kodava Kshemabhivrudhi Sangha, Yelwal, was held at Grand Chippas Hotel, Hebbal Ring Road recently.Sangha President Deyanda Jaya Chengappa presided.
Kodava Samaja Cultural and Sports Club President Kuttimada D. Muthappa and Rekha Muthappa were the chief guests.
Mandaneravanda Subramani, Sangha Secretary; Kadira Nandakumar, Treasurer; Nambiyapanda Seema Mahesh, Assistant Secretary; Allapanda Chami Kuttappa, Nayakanda Aiyappa, Nayakanda Harish Achaiah, Mekerira Bharath, Marada Shashi Aiyanna, Koothanda Dinesh Poonacha, Mukkatira Sathish Cariappa, and Mundumada Latha Bose (all Managing Committee Members) were present along with other members of the Sangha.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / August 26th, 2023
A new war memorial will be unveiled soon in South Kodagu, in the memory of all the martyrs, and to offer a tribute to the soldiers.
Soldiers are responsible for the protection of the country. They work selflessly for the betterment of the country and ensure that peace and harmony is maintained. Hence, to remember the struggle of martyrs and their sacrifices, a new war memorial has been set up at the main junction of T Shettigeri village, in South Kodagu and will be unveiled on August 28.
he major highlight of this memorial is that it has been set up by the funds donated by the No 33 Ex-Servicemen Association of T Shettigeri. This association consists of 450 retired soldiers. Installing a new war memorial was a dream of the association. This association has also contributed a lot to the society including extension of financial assistance to the needy and also providing aid during the time of natural disasters.
This war memorial is made up of marbles that cost around Rs 5 lac and the cost of construction is largely donated by the wife of K Bopaiah, a former havaldar, said president of Association, K A Vishwanath.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Daijiworld Media Network – Madikeri (SJM) / August 25th, 2023
Sandalwood actress Harshika Poonacha and actor Bhuvan Ponnanna , both natives of Kodagu district embarked on their journey of wedded bliss.
Madikeri:
Sandalwood actress Harshika Poonacha and actor Bhuvan Ponnanna, both natives of Kodagu district embarked on their journey of wedded bliss. The glitzy Sandalwood duo celebrated their nuptials on Thursday , in accordance with the cherished Kodava customs. Amid the esteemed presence of elders, family members, and well-wishers, the couple partook in traditional marriage rituals, cementing their love in the heart of district.
The resplendent wedding took place in the serene setting of Ammathi Kodava Samaja in Virajpet taluk amid lush greenary of district. Donning the exquisite Kodava traditional attire, the celebrities radiated in their cultural finery. The event was graced by political luminaries, including former Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, former Minister Murugesh Nirani, Sudhakar, and Virajpet MLA Ponnanna. The solemn wedding rites were elevated by the emblematic act of severing a banana pole, symbolizing valor and courage, as per Kodava tradition.
The star-studded affair garnered a dazzle of celebrities, with actress Anu Prabhakar and her husband Raghumukherjee elegantly clad in Kodava traditional attire. Actress Anu Prabhakar had been actively involved in the pre-wedding festivities, adding her grace to the auspicious occasion. The presence of renowned figures like actor Ganesh and veteran actor Doddanna further enriched the ceremony’s splendor.
The couple’s union was celebrated over two days of grandeur. The pre-wedding celebrations included the ‘Oorkoduva ceremony and Mehndi, setting the stage for the wedding’s magnificence. The Kodava wedding tradition, distinct in its own right, diverges from other cultures by designating the mother to applaud the bride. This special Kodava gesture, known as ‘Pattak’, (mangal Sutra ) tied on neck of Harshika by her mother.
Resplendent in traditional Kodava attire, Bhuvan and Harshika captured hearts as they partook in a series of Kodava customs. The ceremonial highlight included the symbolic cutting of a banana tree, signifying bravery. Traditional Kodava cuisine added flavor to the festivities, treating guests to an authentic culinary experience. The Kodava tradition of ‘Walaga’ was also a prominent feature of the event, showcasing the community’s rich heritage.
The union of Harshika Poonacha and Bhuvan Ponnanna stands as a testament to love, tradition, and the vibrant culture of Kodagu. The wedding extravaganza marked not just a joyous occasion for the couple but also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage they represent.
source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Coovercolly Indresh / by Hans News Service / August 24th, 2023
The makers of ‘KD-The Devil’ on Friday introduced the leading lady of the film—actress Reeshma Nanaiah, who will be seen opposite Dhruva Sarja as Queen Macchlakshmi.
As Reeshma enters KD’s vintage adda, she looks every bit feisty. In fact, her stance is the one that suits a true queen, especially when she is a queen who converts her King’s pain into power. Fans have been very excited to meet Reeshma aka Queen Macchlakshmi and they cannot wait to see more of her on the big screen.
Talking about her character, Reeshma said, “The best part about Queen Macchlakshmi is the larger-than-life persona she ensues. From the poster you know, she is strong-headed, she is feisty, and playing her role was indeed great. It was challenging but thrilling. What was exciting was to also share the frame with action Prince Dhruva Sarja. I am very excited.”
A period action entertainer based on true events from 1970s Bangalore, ‘KD-The Devil’ also stars Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Sanjay Dutt, and V Ravichandran. KVN Productions presents KD-The Devil directed by Prem and also produced by Suprith.
The Pan-India multilingual is all set to release in Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi.
source: http://www.goachronicle.com / Goa Chronicle / Home> Entertainment> India / by GC News Desk / via UNI-India / April 28th, 2023
The students of Coorg Public School (COPS), Gonikoppal, Kodagu, have emerged winners in various competitions held during the first week of August.
Vedika Bojamma, a Grade 1 student of COPS, participated in the All-Karnataka Poetry Recitation Competition conducted by KISA (Karnataka Icse Schools Association) and stood 1st in the State.
The following students of COPS have won prizes in various competitions organised by Lions High School, Gonikoppal, on account of Independence Day celebrations:
Patriotic Song: Gyana U. Kalkur (X std.) – 1st place; Anika Nandish (I PUC) – 1st; L. Tanushree (II PUC) – 3rd; C.P. Ayaan Devaiah (II std.) – 3rd.
English Elocution: B.I. Samarth Ponnappa (IV std.) – 2nd; M. Niyati Kalaiah (IX std.) – 2nd; K. Gayatri Kaveriappa (II PUC) – 2nd; Mathanda Lia Chengappa (III std.) – 3rd; Amrutha Poovamma (I PUC) – 3rd; Trisha Somaiah (VIII std.) – Consolation Prize.
Students who bagged prizes in the Taluk-Level Inter School Elocution and Debate Competition held in memory of late Kakamada N. Nanaiah at Appachakavi Vidyalaya on Aug. 8 are as follows:
Kannada Elocution: B.M. Aaradhya Shetty (V std.) – 2nd.
The Ibnii Coorg is a delicious little secret set amidst lush green hills.
For a region often described by locals as ‘60×40’ (measuring 60 miles by 40 miles), understandably there are few secrets in Kodagu, or Coorg. Yet, tucked around a bend just off the Suntikoppa-Madikeri road, the gates of The Ibnii open into a hidden world of its own. Literally meaning ‘dew’, The Ibnii was ten years in the making before it formally opened in February. A tree-lined cobbled driveway ends at The Kaadu, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley that cradles the resort.
A tree-lined cobbled driveway ends at The Kaadu, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley that cradles the resort. Ushered down a small wooden bridge to a lookout, we savour the view over some bella ( jaggery) coffee, traditionally served to guests in Coorg. In the distance, the four-tiered cascade swimming pool breaks the expanse of dense green in a striking splash of turquoise blue.
We linger over another cuppa and only the promise of greater comfort makes us move. A golf cart takes us to our private pool villa. In a region globally recognised as an ecological hotspot, everything about the resort is eco-sensitive. The architecture and landscape were designed without damaging local flora—all the villas and structures are built around existing vegetation and no trees were cut except dead and decaying ones. Three lakes were created on the 120-acre property for rainwater harvesting. Other green practices include a stringent ‘no plastic’ policy, vermicomposting and waste-recycling. The resort prides itself in having no room service or phone network (though wi-fi is available), encouraging guests to explore the outdoors.
Wooden cottage
On a ‘Bean to Cup’ coffee tour, we get first-hand experience of the process of coffee-making and grading of beans. The venue is Kaldi Kappee, a tranquil lakeside coffee-house named after the Ethiopian shepherd who discovered the rejuvenating properties of coffee when his goats pranced about after feeding on some wild berries. On display are coffee-grinding machines, filters and presses, as well as single-origin coffee from an all-woman village cooperative in Chikmagalur. It’s called Halli Berri!
Breakfast with local flavours
The boulangerie, tucked behind the coffee counter reveals a hi-tech interactive kitchen where baking classes are conducted. Our impromptu session sharpens our blunt baking skills and soon we are sipping cappuccinos outside, nibbling on warm crispy puffs that we kneaded and rolled only minutes earlier. Walking to the Greenhouse, an in-house garden where veggies and herbs are grown, we learn that the Ibnii’s kitchen only uses fresh hand-pounded masalas. With a lakeside yoga pavilion on the anvil, The Ibnii takes its eco-luxe tag seriously. No wonder it has already won accolades—the best eco-luxury resort in the country and the first resort in India to acquire IGBC’s (Indian Green Building Council) Green Homes Platinum Award 2017.
The next morning, following a medley of bird calls, we set off on a nature walk & birdwatching tour with our able guide, who helps us spot 45 species of birds besides sharing fascinating stories on flora like Gloriosa superba, locally called thok poo meaning ‘gun-flower’ and tracking the hoof prints of wild deer that had wandered into the property at night. Our trail ends with duck feeding, though the round of fishing at the pond (catch and release) is thwarted by rain.
Manja Spa
The evening uncoils itself with a relaxing spa session at Manja Spa. The treatments are designed using locally-sourced ingredients (including a coffee scrub) while the techniques adopt Balinese, Swedish and traditional Ayurvedic styles.
There’s lots to do in Coorg—remarkable waterfalls, an elephant training camp, quaint monasteries, and much more that is in close proximity. But even if you like your holidays leisurely curled up inside a blanket with a cup of coffee, birdsongs and a book for company in a picturesque location, this eco-resort is the place to indulge.
The Information
Getting There: The Kempegowda International Airport is the closest one to Coorg (280km, 5.5hr). Mysuru Junction is the nearest railway station at 95km. KSRTC buses ply from Bengaluru and Mysuru to Coorg. If you’re driving, take State Highway 17 (Bengaluru-Mysuru highway) and turn before Srirangapatna onto State Highway 88 towards Madikeri.
Where To Stay: The Ibnii, Coorg is at Ibnivalvadi village, 4.5km away from Madikeri town. It has 22 pool villas, called Kopi Luwak after the Asian civet coffee. Each of these comes with an indoor jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. Ten wooden cottages perched on stilts, named Arnetta, overlook a lake—they are open only to couples. Children are not allowed here due to safety concerns. (Tariff starts from ₹16,150 per night in a Kopi Luwak for a minimum stay of three nights; +91-8884990000, ibnii.com).
Where to Eat Ibnii’s themed dining spaces take a cue from local Kodava culture. Set in a single complex called Pattole Palome (collection of silk strands, and also the title of a cultural tome on Coorg) are Baalelle (a veg restaurant with meals served on banana leaves), Masi Kande (a covered outdoor barbecue & grill, means charcoal), The Fig (multi-cuisine restaurant serving Kodava, south Indian & continental fare) and Bendhoota (a banquet hall named after a traditional post-wedding family feast).
What to See & Do Besides local bird watching trails, responsible fishing and a bean to-cup coffee tour, the Tibetan monasteries at Bylakuppe near Kushalnagar, the elephant training camp at Dubare and sites like Raja’s Seat, Mercara Fort, Gaddige and Abbey Falls are close at hand.
source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook Traveller / Home> Stay> Story / by Anurag Mallick / August 17th, 2017
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