Monthly Archives: March 2023

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

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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

Business & Economy, Coffee News, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), Records, All,

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

Defence Services (Air,Land,Sea),Police (wef. Dec 09th, 2021), Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022))

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

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021),

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

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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

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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

Tracing The Roots Of Kodagu Wedding Cuisine

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The use of coconut, curry leaves, and tamarind is prevalent in Kodagu cuisine, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste. The dishes are usually spicy, but the heat is balanced with the use of coconut milk and other ingredients.

Tracing The Roots Of Kodagu Wedding Cuisine

India has many unique culinary traditions from different cultures. One such culture that is fascinating is that of Kodagu, a small district nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Kodagu is a land of lush green forests, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls, but what sets it apart is its rich and diverse cuisine, especially the wedding cuisine.

Introduction to Kodagu and its wedding cuisine

Kodagu, also known as Coorg, is a district in the Indian state of Karnataka. The district is known for its unique culture, traditions, and cuisine. The Kodava people, the native inhabitants of Kodagu, have a rich history and a unique way of life that has evolved over centuries. One of the most significant aspects of Kodava culture is their weddings, which are elaborate affairs that involve a lot of rituals and customs, including an elaborate wedding feast.

The significance of pigs in Kodagu weddings

Pigs are considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and they play a significant role in Kodava weddings. In fact, the wedding feast is incomplete without a pig roast. The pig is not only the star attraction of the feast but also an essential part of the wedding rituals.

The preparation of the pig for the feast

The preparation of the pig for the feast is a time-consuming process that requires a lot of effort and skill. The pig is first caught and then taken to the groom’s house, where it is cleaned and prepared for the feast. The pig is then marinated with a special mix of spices and herbs and roasted over an open fire for several hours until it is cooked to perfection. The result is a succulent and flavorful dish that is the highlight of the wedding feast.

The traditional Kodagu wedding feast

The traditional Kodagu wedding feast is a grand affair that involves several courses, each with a unique flavor and aroma. The feast usually starts with a welcome drink, followed by the main course, which includes rice, sambar, and a variety of side dishes. The pig roast is the star attraction of the feast and is served with a special gravy and a variety of chutneys. The feast also includes a variety of desserts, including payasam and holige.

The flavors of Kodagu wedding cuisine

The flavors of Kodagu wedding cuisine are unique and distinctive. The cuisine is a blend of different spices and herbs that are locally sourced and handpicked. The use of coconut, curry leaves, and tamarind is prevalent in Kodagu cuisine, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste. The dishes are usually spicy, but the heat is balanced with the use of coconut milk and other ingredients.

The evolution of Kodagu wedding cuisine over the years

Kodagu wedding cuisine has evolved over the years, with new dishes and flavors being added to the traditional menu. The modern Kodagu wedding menu also shows the influence of other cuisines, like North Indian and Chinese. However, the traditional dishes and flavors still hold a special place in the Kodava culture and are an essential part of their identity.

The modern-day Kodagu wedding menu

The menu for a modern Kodagu wedding includes dishes that are both traditional and new. Some of the popular dishes include pandi curry (pork curry), kadambuttu (rice balls), and nati koli saaru (country-style chicken curry). The use of exotic ingredients such as bamboo shoots and wild mushrooms has also become popular in recent years.

Unique Kodagu wedding recipes to try

If you want to try some unique Kodagu wedding dishes, here are some must-try options:

•    Koli Barthad: A spicy and tangy chicken dish that is slow-cooked with a special blend of spices and herbs, resulting in a delicious and savory dish.

•    Baimbale Curry: A flavorful vegetarian dish that is made with bamboo shoots and coconut This is also a popular dish eaten on special occasions.

•    Pandi Curry: A spicy and aromatic pork curry that is slow-cooked to perfection. It is a dish fit for royalty and is served at special occasions and weddings.

Kodagu wedding cuisine is a unique and flavorful culinary experience that is a must-try for food lovers. The cuisine is a blend of different spices and herbs that are locally sourced and handpicked, giving it a distinct taste and aroma. Pigs play a special part in Kodava weddings, and they help make the elaborate feast stand out. If you want to experience the rich and diverse culture of Kodagu, you must try their wedding cuisine.

source: http://www.slurrp.com / Slurrp / Home> Article / by Slurrp Editorial / March 28th, 2023

Madikeri, Virajpet hospitals get hi-tech ambulances

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Two hi-tech ambulances with one costing ₹42 lakh and another ₹17 lakh were handed over to the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital attached to the Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in Madikeri and Virajpet Government Hospital, in Madikeri on Thursday.

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha handed over the two ambulances.

The ambulance that was handed over to the district hospital (of KIMS) is an advanced one equipped to provide ICU care.

The MP said public healthcare was being upgraded providing the hospitals under the government set-up with advanced facilities. The Centre has decided to strengthen the public healthcare post COVID-19. The ambulances that were handed over today were part of the efforts.

He said the government has allocated ₹100 crore to Kodagu for increasing the beds at the district hospital to 450. The expansion of the hospital building is underway. Already, a women’s hospital with 150 beds has been given a start.

Kodagu will get all advanced healthcare services as a trauma care centre has also been sanctioned at a cost of ₹29 crore, he added.

MLAs Appachu Ranjan, K.G. Bopaiah and others were present.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / March 23rd, 2023

The Kodava hockey festival: What you shouldn’t miss in Kodagu this summer

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The Kodava hockey festival is a vibrant, month-long celebration held between March and April. The festival exudes the ambience and excitement of a mela with its draped festoons, welcome arches, and numerous stalls.

Come summer, and it’s hockey festival time in Kodagu. When schools close for summer vacation and coffee plantations take a break, Kodava families from around the world head home to participate in the Kodava Hockey Namme (festival) held in Kodagu (Coorg). It is time for Kodavas to battle with their hockey sticks at this tournament held in their home turf. With hundreds of families participating, the tournament is recognized as one of the largest field hockey tournaments in the world and finds a mention in the Limca Book of Records.

The Kodava hockey festival is a vibrant, month-long celebration held between March and April. The festival exudes the ambience and excitement of a mela with its draped festoons, welcome arches, and numerous stalls selling everything from automobiles to food. It is also an occasion for the Kodavas to dress up in traditional attire and participate in the procession and cultural programmes. Dancing and music add to the fun and frolic. One has to be here during the festival to experience the fierce pride of Kodavas in their glorious heritage, which they jealously guard.

Procession of Kodava women in their traditional attire

The genesis of the hockey festival can be traced back to 1997. It was the brainchild of late Pandanda Kuttappa, a former banker and State league referee. He is said to have conceptualised the festival after realising the deterioration in the standards of hockey played in the district. He hit upon the idea for a tournament among the families in order to encourage more youngsters to take up the sport. 

The first editions of the festival were held in the village of Karada with 60 families competing. The festival has no permanent venue, something organisers are striving to achieve, and the festival has been held across the district in previous years.

Kodava children flaunt their traditional dress

The tournament started with the dual purpose of paying rich tribute to the sport in the region, and bringing together players in thousands in order to identify the best talents for the country. Over the years, more than 50 Kodavas have represented India in international hockey, earning their district the title of ‘Cradle of Indian hockey’. Hockey is to Kodagu what cricket is to India. It is common to find hockey sticks in every home. 

This annual festival is hosted by a different family each year and will be known by the name of the host family. A family may not host the event more than once. Families apply to the Kodava Hockey Academy expressing interest and are allotted the tournament after evaluation. In a lifetime, a Kodava will only get to see their family host the cup once. For the 800-odd families in Kodagu, it has become a matter of pride and honour to host this iconic tournament. This is one of the reasons why family members from far and near take leave and arrive in droves to participate in the much- awaited festival games. 

Appachettolanda, the host family of the 23rd edition of the Kodava Hockey Festival

The hockey festival has accomplished what perhaps nothing else could have — uniting distant families. It is the time for annual family reunions in their ancestral homes. What makes this festival distinctive is that it remains a family-oriented event, which has morphed into a major sporting event and festival in the country. Besides uniting warring relatives and families torn by strife, the hockey event is also a platform for community members to discuss and transact trade and business, besides scouting for marital alliances. 

After a hiatus of four years due to floods and the pandemic, this year the hockey festival kickstarted with renewed vigour and energy. “This year (the 23rd edition)  the Appachettolanda family is organising the event under the aegis of Kodava Hockey Academy. The festival is held at an estimated cost of Rs 1.5 crores, raised through contributions from the families, a grant from the Karnataka Government, and through sponsorships. More than 350 teams will participate in the festival this time. While the winning team will be given a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh, the runner-up will get Rs 2 lakh, and the teams that came third and fourth will get Rs 1 lakh each,” said Manu Muthappa, convener, Appachettolanda Hockey Festival.

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An interesting feature of the festival is that both men women take part in the matches and there is no restriction on age. The only rule for forming a team is that all members must be from the same family and can include children and grown-ups from both genders. Young boys and girls, fathers, mothers, uncles, professionals, and even former Olympian heroes are all players. The women have the choice of playing for their in-laws’ team or their parents’ team. There have been instances when three generations of players have played together in a single match.

The festival is also ideal for talent spotting. Sometimes, officials from the Sports Authority of India arrive here to select players who are then offered training and equipment. Some of them have gone on to become state and national players. Plans are afoot to set up a hockey stadium to offer more facilities to budding players from the district. It is heartening that there is a growing interest among the younger generation in the hockey festival. But there is a need for more stadiums and turfs to facilitate more players to practise regularly.

Schedule of the hockey festival: General Thimmaiah Stadium, Napoklu, from March 18 to April 10. 

Misty Woods Resort is an ideal place to stay to cover the hockey festival as it is within driving distance from the venue.

All pics by Susheela Nair. 

Susheela Nair is an independent food, travel and lifestyle writer and photographer contributing articles, content and images to several national publications besides organising seminars and photo exhibitions. Her writings span a wide spectrum which also includes travel portals and guide books, brochures and coffee table books.

source: http://www.thenewsminute.com / The News Minute / Home> Features> Sports & Culture / by Susheela Nair / March 27th, 2023

Harangi to get Karnataka’s first biodiversity park

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Madikeri:

The work to develop the first biodiversity park of the state was launched in Harangi, by laying the foundation stone on Friday.

Legislator Appachu Ranjan, who conducted the ‘bhoomipooja’ for the biodiversity park work, said, “India is the biggest exporter of medicinal herbs. The new park will help us.”

He said that a medicinal herbal park will also be opened in Bhagamandala soon.

“Medicinal plants are needed to cure diseases. Also, the environment will be healthy if there is enough greenery,” he pointed out.

Karnataka Biodiversity Board chairperson Napanda Ravi Kalappa, who presided over the ceremony in Harangi, said that a master plan of building a model medicinal garden in the district was readied by the Board. The park is also being launch to conserve the richness of the flora of Kodagu, he added.

“The Karnataka Biodiversity Board intends to establish similar parks in every panchayat of Kodagu. The Coorg Mandarin used to be an exclusive plant to Kodagu, but is virtually not to be found anywhere now. Research is now being conducted to promote this species,” Kalappa said.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / March 18th, 2023