Monthly Archives: June 2011

As many as 38 Poets Recite their Creative Works at Multi-lingual Meet

June 20, 2011Arts, Culture & Entertainment38 Poets highlights society's problems, Ananya Sharma of Gonikoppa, B R Joyappa, B Siddaraju Bellyya, Hemalatha Poornaprakash, Jamma Bane, Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy, Kaveri Kalakshetra, Kayapanda B Tata Changappa Madikeri, M E Mohammed, M K Ashraf, Madikeri, Madikeri Dasara Janotsava Bahubhash Kavighosti Committee, Manju Gopinath, Multi-lingual poets meet, Poet of Somwarpet Ha Thi Jayaprakash, Satish Kumar of Cherambane, Senior poet Chendrimad Ga Muthappa, Shanthaleela, Sunitha Lokesh, T L Padmaja Shikshaka, V J Monish of Madikeriadmin


Poets highlight society’s problems through their works

*That was a perfect occasion for the poets to let lose their imaginations and highlight the problems in the society.*

They made best use of the occasion at the multi-lingual poets meet organised by the Madikeri Dasara janotsava Bahubhasha Kavighoshti Committee and Karnataka Kodava Sahithya Academy at Kaveri Kalakshethra on Sunday. There were descriptions of Kodagu’s land, water, agriculture, tradition, culture and heroic deeds along with the beauty of the nature and wildlife. There were disappointment over the failure of government in responding to the problems of the district. There were displeasure over Kodavas not getting the rights over Baane land. There were concern over threat to sanctity of Talacauvery along with the wild elephant menace. This was how a senior poet Chendrimada Ga Muthappa explained Kodagu through his poem. Muthappa recited poem on ‘Jamma bane’ and highlighted the problems faced by people in Kodagu. The limericks by an invited poet of Somwarpet, Ha Thi Jayaprakash on politicians Shobha Karandlaje, Siddaramaiah, Goolihatti Shekar, Aravinda Limbavalli, Janardhan Reddy and B S Yeddyurappa highlighted the present political situation in the state. As many as 38 poets recited poems on the occasion. This included four in English and one in Hindi. Recitation of poems by little V J Monish of Madikeri and Ananya Sharma of Gonikoppa were the centre of attraction. B R Joyappa recited poem ‘Kalajnani,’ B Siddaraju Bellyya— ‘IT BT gala benneri,’ Kayapanda B Tata Changappa— ‘Madikeri,’ T L Padmaja—‘Shikshaka,’ Sathish Kumar of Cherambane—‘Naanu bareyuthene,’ Hemalatha Poornaprakash— ‘Nirlipta baduku,’ Sunitha Lokesh— ‘Pranaya male,’ Shanthaleela— ‘Dr Raj ge namana,’ Manju Gopinathan — ‘Kaarana ishte,’ M E Mohammed—‘Bedagina Kodagu,’ M K Ashraf — ‘Guruve Namaha,’ and Asha Dharmapal recited ‘Prabhu Kaneyagiddare’. K P Devidas of Gonikoppa recited Malayalam poem ‘Yakshi paramb,’ Narayana of Neerabidire recited Tulu poem ‘Ippodu Incha,’ B M Vasu Rai—’Bale Dasarogu’, Sabalam Bojanna Reddy recited Telugu poem ‘Nenu Manishi Kada.’ A V Manjunath of Virajpet recited limericks. The English poems recited included— M S Subbaiah’s ‘The power of the invisible,’ Kiggalu G Harish’s ‘We surely will succeed,’ Thekkada Gulabi Janardhan’s ‘Ever green teacher,’ and V J Monish’s ‘Flower.’ M E Manoj recited Hindi poem.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DH News Service / Oct 11th

Forest Dept plans Survey to Protect ‘Devarakadu’

June 20, 2011Agriculture, Green Initiatives / Environment, NatureDevarakadu Committee, Devarakadu Mithra Award, Forest Department, In Kodagu 165 Gods are worshipped in Devarakadu in Kodagu, Kadanooru Devarakadu Committee, surveys to protect Devarakaduadmin

The Forest Department has decided to conduct a survey to protect Devarakadu in association with the local villagers by evicting the encroached Devarakadu after monsoon.

DFO Kantaraj, Kodagu Circle Conservator of Forest K B Markandeya, Ponnampet Forest College’s Prof C G Kushalappa at Devarakadu committee office-bearers meeting in Madikeri on Tuesday. DH Photo

The survey will be carried out in association with revenue department. Speaking to presspersons here on Tuesday, Kodagu Circle Conservator of Forest K B Markandeya said “government had earmarked Rs 8 lakh to preserve Devarakadu. The government had also assured to release additional Rs 20 lakh.”

Devarakadu spreads from half acre land to 350 acre land in Kodagu. Some of the Devarakadu lands have been encroached upon. It has been decided to evict the encroached land in association with local villagers. In this background, a joint survey will be conducted in association with revenue department. As Devarakadu RTC, survey number and other documents are with revenue department, joint survey will be conducted, he informed.

He said: “It has been decided to mark the boundary of Devarakadu by constructing a permanent fence. Instead of forest department taking a unilateral decision, it has been decided to consult Devarakadu committee office-bearers and then chalk out plans on the development of Devarakadu.”

1214 Devarakadu

Ponnampet Forest College Prof C G Kushalappa said Kodagu district has 1,214 Devarakadu spread in 2,550 hectare land. “There is one Devarakadu for every 300 acre land. Such a vast Devarakadu is not found anywhere in such a small land. In Kodagu, 165 Gods are worshipped in Devarakadu in Kodagu,” he informed.

The Devarakadu committee will fetch 90 per cent of the income by selling fallen trees in Devarakadu. “About 10 per cent will be given to the government. The funds can be utilised by the committees for the development of temples in their vicinity.”

Devarakadu have been declared as reserve forest in 1887 itself. Even 150 years ago, our forefathers were protecting Devarakadu. Hunting and felling of trees in Devarakadu is banned, he added. “We do not have complete information on the encroachment of Devarakadu. As Forest law is strong, it will not be evict the encroached area,” he said.

Prof Kushalappa said those who have voluntarily evicted the encroached Devarakadu land have been conferred on ‘Devarakadu mithra’ award. Kadanooru Devarakadu committee was given a financial assistance of Rs 10,000 for best maintenance.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DHNS / Jun 15th

Under the Canopy of Tradition

June 20, 2011Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Green Initiatives / Environment, Historical Links / Pre-Independence, Nature, Uncategorized346 Devara Kadu's Sacred Groves, Annula Devara Kadu Festival, Bidirammana gudi (tiptur), Dakshina Kannada, Deva Thakka, District of Kodagu hast 346 Sacred Groves or Devara Kadu's, Hongelakshmi (Tumkur), Iyenmane (Ancestral Home), Kadamba (Dynasty of Mayuravarma who ruled Kodagu), Karana Kodupa Ceremony, Kelappanda family, M G Chandrakanth, M G Chandrakanth Professor Department of Agricultural Economics University of Agricultural Sciences, M G Nagaraja, M Nagaraja Hon Secretary Mythic Society, Maletira Family, Muruvanda Family, Naga Banas in most villages, nature loving Kodava community, Oldest Devara Kadu of Kodagu is in Kolathode-Bygode, Salumaradamma (tarikere), Suggi Katte Festival, Tree worship has roots in the Vedas, Udipi Districts, Uttar Kannadaadmin



The district of Kodagu has approximately 346 ‘devara kadu’s (sacred groves). The drop in the number of such groves has been cause for concern in recent times. Some environmentalists blame it on the proliferation of coffee estates, observe M G Chandrakanth and M G Nagaraja

These are ancient groves that are deeply revered by the communities that live in their vicinity. The groves, which are hubs of biodiversity, are called devara kadus, found largely in the State’s Kodagu region. The belief that people of the region have in these groves has ensured forest conservation. The concept of sacred worship of trees is unique and nurtures nature conservation with people’s participation and management. India’s first IG of Forests Sir Dietrich Brandis, who influenced and mentored Gifford Pinchot, the first chief of US Forest Service, recognised devara kadus of Kodagu in 1868. Every village in the district has at least one devara kadu. The tradition of tree worship has its roots in the Vedas, where the ficus tree has been described as housing the fertility spirits of the mythical gandharvas and apsaras. Over the years, Kodagu has lost more than 50 per cent of its devara kadu (755 in 1,900 to 346 at present) with a forest cover loss from 10,343 acres to 4,184 acres. Kodagu currently has an approximate 346 devara kadus spread over 4,184 acres. The size of the grove varies between one cent and 1,000 acres. For the nature-loving Kodava community, the devara kadu is a place of worship to appease its favourite deities. The drop in the number of devara kadus has been attributed to encroachment of the forest area for cultivation of coffee. While sacred groves are found all over the State, for instance, Bidirammana gudi (Tiptur), Salumaradamma (Tarikere), Hongelakshmi (Tumkur), Kadamba (dynasty of Mayuravarma who ruled Kodagu), the Kodagu district is special because it has a devara kadu in every village. Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have naga banas in most villages. Kodagu is dominated by forests interspersed with valleys. In the west and north, there are peaks ranging from 3,800 feet to 5,724 feet high. The district is peppered with coffee, orange, cardamom and other spice plantations. Each devara kadu has a temple committee which conducts the annual devara kadu festival with participation from Kodagu families and the village community. The oldest devara kadu of Kodagu (dating back to 1,000 BC) is in Kolathode-Bygode en route to Hathur-Kaikeri in Virajpet taluk. The grove has a prehistoric cone-shaped menhir, about 12 feet high and five feet deep, another menhir ten feet high and three feet deep and a dolmen with a U-shaped porthole near the menhirs. In Yedur and Choudlu in Somwarpet taluk, in the ajji bana (ancient grove), stones are arranged in the form of capstone with stone circle, which is a megalithic practice, for worship even to this day. This is held during the suggi katte festival. At the foot of the big menhir, a stone axe dating back to the Neolithic era, is still worshipped. An open well, about 50 feet deep, has been dug to meet water needs during worship. The menhirs are unique when compared to the menhirs at Heggadehalli and Doddamolathe in North Kodagu. For, villagers are known to have offered earthen images, such as that of a dog, child, horse, elephant and other forms to appease the deity, a prehistoric practice. During 1990, a compound was built around both the menhirs by Muruvanda family with the help of Kelappanda, Maletira and Chappanda families. At present, the deva thakka responsibility is shouldered by the Muruvanda family. The name Kolathode-Bygode indicates existence of a rivulet Golagundi joining the river Barappole (as thode implies rivulet). Linked to family festivals The tradition of devara kadu conservation by Kodavas is very closely linked to their family festivals, both involving the appeasement of the same deity. The festivals are known as karana kodupa, puttari, kailpod and Cauvery Sankramana (theerthodhbhava). As part of the karana kodupa ceremony, the head of the family and relatives assemble in the Iyenmane (ancestral home) to offer meedi (food) to the ancestor/s. In Puttari, the harvest festival, the first harvest of paddy crop is offered to the karana (ancestor) seeking a good harvest. In the kailpod or kailmurtha (upon transplanting paddy), hunting weapons and agricultural implements are worshipped. In the Cauvery (Tula) sankramana, river Cauvery, the goddess of Kodagu is worshipped, as Cauvery takes its birth in the Brahmagiri hills at Talacauvery. Policy implication The size of the devara kadu is not crucial, but the code of forest conservation that every community or village in Kodagu teaches by way of preserving its devara kadus is a key lesson for the world. Each devara kadu has three common features: the deity, the temple forest and the sacred tank. Tree diversity as well as ancient trees are high in sacred groves attract diverse flora and fauna. In recent times, silver oak, an exotic tree from Australia is becoming a popular shade-giving tree in coffee plantations, because planters need not obtain felling permit from the Forest Department. This however is affecting diversity of flora, fauna and contributing to climate change. It is crucial that the Forest Department takes the initiative to demarcate devara kadus as devara kadu reserve forest and not merely as ‘reserve forest’ in the forest / land revenue records, as this practice will protect devara kadus from gradual loss. A survey of all devara kadus is necessary to demarcate, preserve and protect devara kadu area and numbers. The Forest Department and all the temple forest committees which met under the leadership of Prof CG Kushalappa of Forestry College, UAS Ponnampet have the potential to jointly protect this unique tradition of forest conservation, and hold it as a shining example for the world to emulate. (M G Chandrakanth is Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Agricultural Sciences, while M Nagaraja is Hon Secretary, Mythic Society)

source: http: //www.deccanherald.com / Supplements / Spectrum / Sacred Spaces /

Sahithya Sammelan Chief Dr. Padmashekar Speaks her Heart –

June 20, 2011Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, LeadersDr Padmashekhar HOD of Jainism and Prakuth Study Centre, Dr. Padmashekahar hails from Kodagu, Eight District Kannada Sahithya Sammelan, Mysore University, Sahitya Sammelan Chief Dr. Padmashekaharadmin

“Understand subject for creation of good literature”

‘
Dr Padmashekhar who has been elected as the president of eighth district Kannada Sahithya Sammelan basically hails from Kodagu. At present she is the HoD of Jainism and Prakruth Study Centre of Mysore University.

The sammelan will be held on March 30 and 31. In an interview with Deccan Herald, she spoke on the growth of Kannada language, literature, need for conserving land and water in Kodagu. * How do you feel being elected as the president of Sahithya Sammelan? I felt happy. In spite of having worked in the literary field for long, I had to wait for so long to get the love of the people of my land. * What do you feel on the growth of literary activities in Kodagu? It is not satisfactory. Kodagu district has failed to get a permanent position to get interest in literature and reading habit. All the written documents are not literature. Better understanding of a subject is essential for the creation of a good literature. Such a good literature has not been created in Kodagu so far. * What is your opinion on the growth of literature in Kodagu? Literature is a continuous process. The children should be made to develop interest in literature from childhood. * In the backdrop of increase in love for English, how far Kannada sahithya sammelan have helped in the growth of the language? More and more Kannada literary meets should be organised in border areas. The sammelan should be held in those places wherever the language has been affected. There is a need to create an awareness on Kannada. The fact that Kannadigas are liberal and not cowards should be made known to the people through such meets. We all should believe in unity. The united Karnataka was created due to the struggle by our forefathers. No one should come in the way of the unity of the state. * Do you feel that Kannada has not developed in Kodagu owing to the British rule and migrants from outside the State? Kodagu is a land with multi-culture. Kannada has not been affected in the land. Kannada language can digest any challenges. The Kannada speaking people in Kodagu have not declined. Though people from Kerala have settled down in Kodagu, there was no strife between the languages. However, now we are worried over Kodagu property. Kodagu land and Cauvery river is the lifeline of the district. If our land is sold to the outsiders, then we may lose our relation with the land. Now the land and Cauvery has become a property. If this situation continues, what can we save for our future generation? What will happen to the primitives? * How did you develop interest in Jain literature? Kuvempu’s ‘Chitrangada’ motivated me to study Kannada. All the girls should read it. By reading Pampa, Ranna, I developed interest in Jain literature. In fact, even my research topic was on Jain literature.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DHNS / Mar 29th

K C CARIAPPA is the ‘Coorg Person of the Year’

June 20, 2011Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Green Initiatives / Environment, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, LeadersAir Marshal K C Cariappa, Air Marshall K C Cariappa (retd) Environmentalist, Col C P Muthanna (retd), Coorg person of the year 2009, Dr Boverianda Nanjamma Chinnappa, Dr Jagadeesh Subbaiah Moodera of MIT, Dr Jagadeesh Subbaiah Moodera winner of Oliver E Buckley Prize, Field Marshal Cariappa, first news portal of Kodagu, Novelist Kaveri Poonacha Nambisan, President Ayub Khan, Robin Uthappa, Sarita Mandanna Novelistadmin


*Air Marshal K C Cariappa (retd), an environmentalist who took on the powerful timber lobby in Kodagu district of Karnataka is the ‘Coorg Person of the Year, 2009’.*

Air Marshal Cariappa, son of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, topped a poll conducted by www.coorgtourisminfo.com, the first news portal of Kodagu, to select the Coorg Person of the Year. The others who were in the reckoning for the title, include another hardcore environmentalist and President of the Coorg Wildlife Society, Col C P Muthanna (retd) and New York-based novelist Sarita Mandanna, who has been given the largest advance by Penguin India ever paid to a debut novelist for her novel ‘Tiger Hills,’ set in Kodagu. Taking a pro-active role, Air Marshal Cariappa went beyond the ‘call of duty’ and approached the Supreme Court of India to restrain the timber mafia, backed by the Kodagu district administration and sundry politicians to prevent the formation of a road across the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Kodagu in the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats. Following a public interest litigation filed by Air Marshal Cariappa, the Apex Court directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to make an on the spot study of the situation and file a report. In a blatant violation of the law, the Kodagu district administration, backed by the two Kodagu MLAs, and supported by local villagers attempted to lay a road through the Pushpagiri reserve forest, amid opposition from Karnataka forest officials. The controversial road is a seven km stretch between Madikeri and Subramanya near Mangalore in Dakshina Kannada district. Over 400 villagers from Galibeedu near Madikeri, deployed earthmovers to make the road. Their contention was that the road would shorten the distance between Kodagu and Subramanya. In a mockery of justice, the villagers were provided ‘police protection’ to form the road by the district administration, headed by the then Deputy Commissioner Baldev Krishna. The top district officials, including the Superintendent of Police, went to the extent of publicly humiliating forest official Anil Rathan who protested against the road being formed through the reserve forest. Air Marshal Cariappa was commissioned into the Indian Air Force in 1957 and he was shot down in the 1965 India-Pakistan war while carrying out attacks on enemy positions and taken Prisoner of War (POW). When President Ayub Khan of Pakistan, an old buddy of Field Marshal Cariappa, offered to release his son forthwith, the later famous said: “They (other POWs) are all my sons, look after all of them.” After retirement from the Air Force in 1996, Air Marshal Cariappa has been living at Madikeri in Kodagu. He has been taking a keen interest in environment and was the President of the Coorg Wildlife Society for four years. Two years ago, Air Marshal Cariappa wrote the biography of his father, which brought out his literary talent as a writer. Dr Jagadeesh Subbaiah Moodera, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and winner of Oliver E. Buckley Prize, was the Coorg Person of the Year, 2008. The past winners of Coorg Person of the Year include cricketer Robin Uthappa, researcher Dr Boverianda Nanjamma Chinnappa, and novelist Kaveri Poonacha Nambisan. source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DHNS / Dec 31st

Multi-faceted Talent makes Kodagu Proud

June 20, 2011Education, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, SportsB N Prasad Manager of Canara Bank branch, CN Thejaswini, Dr Vidya Muralihar of Madikerii, Jahnavi Prasad, Jahnavi Prasad only student from Madikeri to secure Merit Scholarship given by the State Government, Jahnavi won first place in bangalore south zonal level table tennis tourney hosted by Bangalore Urban Zilla Panchayat, Madikeri, St Jospeh's Collegeadmin

With her special achievements in academic and extra-curricular activities, multi-faceted talent Jahnavi Prasad, an SSLC student of St Joseph’s College in the city, has shown all potentials of attaining a bright future.

Daughter of B N Prasad, the manager of Canara Bank branch here and C N Thejaswini, Jahnavi has secured several awards in the competitions held at different parts of the State. A budding talent in education, arts and sports field, she is the only student from Madikeri to secure the merit scholarship, given by the State government in 2007-08.

Jahnavi’s mother Thejaswini is a dancer. Hence, the girl has naturally endowed with the talent. She has already given dance performances at different places for the past seven years, and is presently undergoing rigorous training from Vidushi Dr Vidya Muralihar of Madikeri for the senior grade in Bharatanatyam.

Jahnavi Prasad has passed the Kannada entrance exam conducted by the Kannada Sahitya Parishat by securing 178 marks out of 200. She has also passed the all India level general knowledge exam with distinction conducted by the Centre for Human Resource Development, Bangalore, in 2005 and secured a scholarship too.

The girl has also cleared the national-level scholarship contest conducted by the National Council for Development of Education, Chandigarh, this year. She has the credit of being third in the district in the Bharatantyam junior grade exam (2007-08) by securing 352 marks out of 400.

Jahnavi is good at Mathematics too. She surprised the peers by winning the ‘Professor of Maths’ award, clearing an exam conducted by National Educations, Bangalore, as early as 2002. She was the topper at the national-level in a competitive exam on Science conducted by ICETC, Davangere, in 2006-07.

Naturally, Jahnavi is a favourite of her teachers and friends. Proving her potentials in sports, she has won the first place in the Bangalore south zonal level table tennis tourney hosted by Bangalore Urban Zilla Panchayat and Public Instructions Department

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DH News Service / Aug 29th, 2009

Kodagu’s Charms

June 20, 2011About Kodagu / Coorg, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Historical Links / Pre-Independence, Natureannual Hutthari festival, Bettadahalli Gram Panchayat, Bhagmandala, Brahmagiri Hills, Bylekuppa near Kushalanagar, Cauvery Nisargadhama, Doddamalthe, Dubare Elephant Training Centre, Gaddige or the Tomb of the Kings Veerarajendra and Lingarajendra at Madikeri, Gonikoppal, Gowri festival, Harangi Dam, home stays across Kodagu, Honnamana Kere, Honnamana Kere lake, Irupu Falls, Kakkabe town, Kodagu a tourist haven, Kumaradhara river, Kutta, Longarajendra II in 1820, Madikeri Palace of the Kodagu Raja, Mallalli Falls, Mandalpatti, Omkareshwara temple in Madikeri, Raja's seat in Madikeri, Rajiv Gandhi national park Nagarahole, Somvarpet Taluk, St Anne's Church in Virajpet, Tadiyandamol peak the highest peak in Kodagu, Talacauvery the birthplace of the sacred river Cauvery, Temple of Basavanna, The Clock Tower erected in1914 to commemorate the Delhi Durbar of King George V, Tula Sankaramana Day, Virajpetadmin


*To say Kodagu is a tourist haven would be an understatement. The district has many interesting sights, from cascades, peaks to ancient temples and tombs, writes P T Bopanna*

The scenic Kodagu (erstwhile Coorg) district is a tourist paradise for nature lovers. Kodagu is not the sort of place for the routine tourist, undertaking a ‘package tour’. It is for those who want to soak in nature. Kodagu shares one of its boundaries with Kerala. The landlocked district is not connected by train or air. The only way to reach this nature’s resort is to take a bus ride from Mysore, Mangalore or Hassan cities. Madikeri (known earlier as Mercara), the district headquarters of Kodagu, is 120 km from Mysore and 260 km from Bangalore. Though Kodagu is dotted with several towns like Virajpet, Kushalnagar, Somvarpet, Gonikoppal and Pollibetta, only Madikeri and Kushalanagar to some extent, have good tourist facilities. There are not many clean budget hotels in Kodagu. Most tourists prefer to stay at ‘home stays’ spread across Kodagu, including at Madikeri. The home stays are mostly located away from the towns and housed in the midst of coffee plantations. Home stays are a big draw Home stays involve either sharing homes with the resident family or staying in independent bungalows. They offer an opportunity to enjoy the legendary hospitality of the Kodavas, the predominant community of Kodagu. There are an estimated 1,000 home stays in Kodagu, catering to various categories of tourists. The tariff could range from around Rs 800 a couple per day to Rs 3,000, depending upon the facilities and location. Kodagu’s roads are a driver’s nightmare. Though the region has emerged as a major tourist destination, not much it seems, has been done to improve road connectivity and tourist infrastructure. Madikeri is dotted with red-tiled bungalows and has an old world charm about it. Madikeri has several interesting tourist spots. The Raja’s Seat in Madikeri offers a breathtaking view of the towering hills and green valleys studded with paddy fields, and could be considered one of the most scenic spots in South India. Raja’s Seat attracts a lot of tourists and morning walkers. For the nature lover, the ideal time to visit the spot is in the morning when the first rays of the sun pierces through the mist covered valley. Madikeri Palace of the erstwhile Kodagu Rajas located inside the Fort, now houses the offices of the Deputy Commissioner. The brick and mortar structure was built in 1814. The Omkareshwara temple in Madikeri was built by Lingarajendra II in 1820 in the Mohammedan style of architecture with a dome at the centre and four turrets at the four corners. The temple is akin to a Muslim dargah with a Linga installed near the entrance door. Gaddige, or the tombs of kings Veerarajendra and Lingarajendra at Madikeri, is one of the important monuments of Kodagu. The hillock where the tombs are located is to the north of Madikeri and provides a commanding view of the town. The tombs are in the style of Mohammedan edifices with domes in the centre and turrets at the corners. Abbey Falls is a picnic spot eight km from Madikeri town, where water from the Madikeri stream gushes down from a height of 70 feet. It is a treat to watch the torrent of water in the monsoon season between July-October. Talacauvery, the birthplace of the sacred river Cauvery, is located on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hill. Besides being a pilgrimage centre, Talacauvery is known for its natural beauty. On Tula Sankaramana day in the middle of October, thousands of pilgrims flock to the birthplace of the river to witness a sudden upsurge of water in a small pond, at a predetermined auspicious time. This gushing of water from the small pond is considered a miracle. Bhagamandala is at the foothills of the Talcauvery. It is eight km downstream from Talacauvery and 39 km from Madikeri. Bhagamandala is at the confluence of the sacred rivers Cauvery and Kanike and legend has it that a third river Sujyothi, a subterranean stream, joins the two rivers here. The Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarahole) is one of the best maintained game parks in India. The Nagarahole (meaning snake river in Kannada) sanctuary derives its name from the serpentine river which flows through the park. Irupu Falls, located 48 km from Virajpet on the way to Kutta from Gonikopppal, is both a picnic spot and a pilgrimage centre. The Falls is located in Kurchi village, not far from the Rajiv Gandhi National Park. A stream flowing down the Brahmagiri hill range plunges down 170 feet in two stages with a resounding roar into a rocky valley surrounded by dense forest. Bylekuppe near Kushalanagar is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India. The settlement, set up in 1960, is dotted with several monasteries. Prominent among these are the Great Gompa of Sera Je and Sera Mey and the Namdroling monastery. The gold-coated Buddhist statues in the monastery are imposing and unique, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetans. Tourists can shop for handicrafts, carpets, incense, sweaters, dress material and other accessories. Cauvery Nisargadhama is a breathtakingly beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri. The 64-acre island, surrounded by the Cauvery river, can be accessed by walking across a hanging bridge. Established in 1989, the picturesque picnic spot with lush foliage of thick bamboo groves, sandalwood and teak trees has lovely river-side cottages. The Harangi dam, built across river Cauvery, is located eight km from Kushalanagar. Behind the dam is a vast reservoir. On the banks of the reservoir stands a temple of Basavanna. Dubare Elephant Training Camp, located 15 km from Kushalanagar, on the banks of the Cauvery river, is run by the Karnataka government-owned Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. A visitor can spend hours simply watching and interacting with elephants, some of which have participated in the Mysore Dasara festivities. Virajpet town, 32 km from Madikeri, is a taluk headquarters. The town, situated at the foot of a hill, is well connected by road to the coastal Kerala towns of Kannur and Tellicherry. The Clock Tower is the most visible landmark in Virajpet, erected in 1914 to commemorate the Delhi Durbar of King George V. Another important landmark of Virajpet is St. Anne’s Church built in the Gothic style in 1868. Tadiyandamol peak (1,745 meters) is the highest peak in Kodagu and poses an exciting challenge to seasoned trekkers. The peak is located in the south-eastern part of Kodagu and is 8 km from the town of Kakkabe which is 35 km from Madikeri. A steep serpentine path from the Nalaknad Palace, leads to the Tadiyandamol peak from where on a clear day, one can view the distant Arabian Sea. Off the beaten track But, if you are one of those who wants to take the path not trodden, then, you should probably be exploring Mandalpatti, Mallalli Falls or Honnamana Kere, for instance. The fog-covered awe-inspiring mountains around Mandalpatti, located 20 km from Madikeri, is perhaps the most unexplored region of Kodagu till recently. The presence of treacherous curves makes it risky to travel by road from Madikeri to Mandalpatti during the monsoon. The forest department has constructed a watchtower atop the mountain which provides a magnificent view of the Pushpagiri mountain range. The villagers assemble at the mand (village plains) during the annual Hutthari festival for staging sports events and other cultural activities. In recent years, Mandalpatti has emerged as a popular venue for film shooting because of the scenic location. Mallalli Falls, located 25 km from Somvarpet, is one of the most beautiful water falls in Kodagu. The Kumaradhara river takes a plunge from over 200 feet, creating a spectacular sight. The Falls which lies in the foothills of the Pushpagiri hill ranges is situated in Bettadahalli Gram Panchayat in Somvarpet taluk. The water falls into a gorge which is surrounded by steep lush green hillocks, making it an ideal place for trekking. Honnamana Kere is perhaps the biggest lake in Kodagu, situated at Doddamalthe, six km from Somvarpet town, amidst beautiful hills and coffee plantations. During the Gowri festival, a special pooja is conducted and ‘Bagina’ is offered to goddess Honnamma. Newly wed couples visit the lake to make offerings. It is an ideal place for boating and fishing. source: http://www.deccanherald.com/ by P T Bopanna /Supplements / Spectrum / Travel /

Its Coorg Oranges vs Nagpur Oranges in Kodagu District

June 20, 2011Agriculture, Business & EconomyChettallu Horticulture Research Institute, Coorg Oranges vs Nagpur Oranges, Hassan, kOdau-nagpura Oranges, Nagpura orange plants, National Horticulture Mission, Shimogaadmin

Now a days, Kodau-Nagpura oranges are highly discussed topic in Kodagu. The revival of Coorg orange under National Horticulture Mission and purchase of Rs 2.43 lakh worth Nagpura orange plants have given food for discussion in Kodagu.

Coorg orange which received global recognition. dh photo

Coorg orange has global recognition and has attracted the attention of the customers at the global level due to its colour and taste. In 1960s, oranges were grown in 50,000 to 60,000 hectare land. However, over the years, disease attacked orange plants. As a result, the land under orange cultivation was reduced to 3,000 to 4,000 hectares. After the price of coffee rised in the international market, orange estates have disappeared in Kodagu.

Based on the proposal of the horticulture department on the need for reviving oranges in Kodagu, the Central government released a sum of Rs one crore in 2009-10. The Horticulture department purchased Nagpura orange plants instead of Coorg Orange plants. According to officials in Horticulture department, Kodagu-Nagpura varieties are one and the same.

However, after Indian Horticulture Research Scientists reported that Nagpura variety of orange plants are not suitable for the weather in Kodagu, the discussion on Coorg and Nagpura oranges have increased. Though elected representatives from BJP tried to ascertain the fact that both the varieties are same, Congress and JD(S) are demanding Lokayukta probe into the misappropriation in the purchase of Nagpura orange plants.
Under National Horticulture Mission, 2.43 lakh Nagpura variety of orange plants have been distributed. A sum of Rs 47 lakh have been spent over it. However, distributing Nagpura variety of orange plants in a hurry without giving any information to the growers have given room for suspicion.

Another interesting thing is that the department had given advertisement in local newspaper for the supply of orange plants. However, in the tender, individuals from Hassan and Shimoga have taken the tender to supply the plants.

However, horticulture department is supporting its stand on the distribution of Nagpura variety of orange plants. In the beginning, Chettallu Horticulture Research Institute had agreed to supply 10,000 orange plants. As the demand was more, it was necessary to purchase Nagpura plants.

The geography of Kodagu is different. Kodagu receives six months rain and the temperature does not rise. However, Nagpura oranges grow under 40 degree celsius weather. With the Kodagu weather, the colour and taste of orange may vary feel scientists.

The taste of Coorg orange can not to compared with Nagpura orange, said a senior officer.

Some say that horticulture department runs eight nurseries in Kodagu and spend Rs 15 lakh annually.

Instead of purchasing 2.43 lakh Nagpura variety of orange plants, the department could have developed plants in its own nurseries in a phased manner.

However, we can not brush aside the fact that globally recognised Coorg orange will be a thing of past if Nagpura oranges start giving yield within three to four years in the district.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Madikeri / DH News Service / Oct 21st

Kodagu: Land of Coffee, Oranges

June 20, 2011About Kodagu / Coorg, Agriculture, Green Initiatives / Environment, Naturefarmers seeds collective in Coorg, Kodagu highest peak Tadiandamol, Kodagu second highest peak Pushpagiri, main river in Kodagu is Cauvery, Malnad Forest Garden and Seek Keeper's Collective, organic agriculture in Kodagu, Sahaja Samrudha, Western Ghats, www.sahajasamrudha.org, www.vanastree.org women of the forest in kannadaadmin

Kodagu is on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. It is a hilly district with the lowest elevation in the district at 900 meters (2,900 ft) above sea-level.

Kodagu district is bordered by Dakshina Kannada district to the northwest, Hassan district to the north, Mysore district to the east, the Kannur district of Kerala to the southwest, and the Wayanad district of Kerala to the south.

Kodagu is on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. It is a hilly district with the lowest elevation in the district at 900 meters (2,900 ft) above sea-level.

The highest peak, Tadiandamol, rises to 1,750 meters (5,700 ft), with Pushpagiri, the second highest, at 1,715 meters (5,600 ft).

The main river in Kodagu is the Cauvery. The Cauvery starts at Talacauvery, located on the eastern side of the Western Ghats, and, with its tributaries, drains the greater part of Kodagu. In July and August, rainfall is intense, and there are often showers into November. The principal town, and district capital, is Madikeri, erstwhile Mercara. Other significant towns include Virajpet and Somwarpet. The district is divided into the three taluks: Madikeri, Virajpet and Somwarpet.

SUSTAINABLE LIVING

A seed collective in Malnad

The Malnad Forest Garden and Seed Keepers’ collective was born in 2001 as a network of seed exchange groups focused on celebrating and endorsing biodiversity. From 2003, the collective began promoting sustainable livelihoods through conservation-oriented enterprises. The seed collective officially registered as a trust in 2008. Vanastree’s office is located in Sirsi town, but the collective has members scattered across Malnad (hilly region of the Western Ghats) as well as in the narrow coastal belt and in the eastern fringes of the Ghats.
Vanastree’s objectives arose out of concerns for the economic stability of the region and the danger of losing its small-scale, traditional food production system to the forces of globalisation. Vanastree, which translates as “Women of the Forest” in Kannada, also emphasises the traditional role of women in conservation.
Vanastree’s activities include: Forming a decentralised regional seed bank and one in Sirsi town; building an internship programme, supporting collective members in creating a variety of home-based conservation enterprises. These include production of value-added foods based on local cuisine, sales of crafts and other items, camps
and eco-homestays.
(vanastree.org)

All for organic agriculture

Sahaja Samrudha started as a farmer initiated group to exchange ideas, seeds and share knowledge on sustainable agriculture. It was the culmination of individual efforts into a more exciting and powerful force to make sustainable agriculture a way of life for the farming community. Samrudha has been establishing contacts, building networks, facilitating exchange of experience and developing programmes based on the needs of farmers of specific regions.
(sahajasamrudha.org)

Send your comments to: spectrum@deccanherald.co.in or Spectrum c/o Deccan Herald, #75 M G Road, Bangalore-560001

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Supplements / Spectrum/ Know Your District /

Bopaiah Assures Science Centre in Kodagu

June 20, 2011Science & TechnologyK G Bopaiah assures Science Centre in Kodagu, Madikeri, Nisargadhama near Kushalnagar, State Science and Technology Department, State Vijnana Parishat, State Vijnana Parishat District Committee, State Vijnana Parishat Honourary Secretary C D Patil, State Vijnana Parishat Vice President Challakere Yariswamy, Vijnana Praishat Convener T G Prem Kumar, Zilla Panchayat President Vijayaadmin

Assembly Speaker K G Bopaiah has promised to convince the Government with regard to setting up of science centre in Kodagu district.

Assembly Speaker K G Bopaiah inaugurating the science writers and journalists meet by watering orange and coffee saplings at Nisargadhama near Kushalnagar on Wednesday. ZP President V M Vijaya, State Vijnana Parishat Vice-President Challakere Yariswamy, Vijnana Parishat Convener T G Prem Kumar and others look on. DH Photo

Inaugurating the science writers and journalists meet organised by State Vijnana Parishat, State Science and Technology Department and State Vijnana Parishat District Committee on Wednesday at Nisargadhama near Kushalnagar, he said that help of elected representatives of the district and district administration will be sought while setting up the centre. “There is a need to develop scientific bent of mind among students and common man. More and more research in the field of science must happen. Education complimentary to the modern world is inevitable,” he said and added that students must pay more attention towards science. He opined that science needs to be developed on lines of our country’s history.

Supporting this, State Vijnana Parishat Vice-President Challakere Yariswamy said that Government has already set aside a sum of Rs 2 crore for the purpose of setting up Science Centre in the district. There is a need to identify the site for the project either in Madikeri or in Kushalnagar.

Zilla Panchayat President Vijaya said that along with science students must be made to develop love for environment. “Conservation of natural resources is a must in present day scenario. Science must aim at conservation or natural resources,” she said. State Vijnana Parishat Honourary Secretary C D Patil and Vijnana Parishat Convener T G Prem Kumar were present.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Kushalnagar / DHNS / May 26th

Kodagu First

a Celebration. Positive News, Facts & Achievements about Kodagu, Coorgs and the People of Kodagu – here at Home and Overseas