Mysuru:
Observing that Kodava culture and traditions can be likened to that of Parsi community, which is known for its unity, entrepreneurship and large heartedness, Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha said that patriotism runs in the blood of every Kodava.
He was speaking after inaugurating the two-day State-level Kodava Sahitya-Samskruthika Mela at Haradasa Appaneravanda Appachha Kavi Vedike at the Scouts and Guides ground near the Deputy Commissioner’s office here this morning.
Stating that he had great affection for Kodavas, Simha said that however, he has a little grouse against Kodavas for migrating to other places in search of work and other profession, after leaving their homeland Kodagu.
Pointing out that Kodavas celebrate three major festivals in a year — Huthri, Kail Poldh and Cauvery Sankramana — the MP wondered how many Kodavas were really interested in farming and cultivating paddy and other crops.
Noting that Kodava community had given great warriors like Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa and General K.S. Thimayya to the nation, Simha lamented the declining number of Kodavas joining the armed forces of late.
Expressing concern over the sharply declining Kodava influence in the armed forces, Simha warned that one day a gallery of Kodava Army Officers has to be set up for the future generation as reminiscence of the past, if the trend continued.
Expressing disappointment over declining cultural values, traditions and unity among Kodavas, Simha said this can be seen in the lack of development of Kodava Samaja buildings across Kodagu district.
Suggesting creating of an exclusive space at the newly-constructed Kodagu DC Office building at Madikeri for displaying the rich Kodava culture, heritage and traditions to future generation, the MP stressed on the need for inculcating Kodava culture among younger generations of the community.
Highlighting the need for maintaining unity and affection among Kodavas, Simha called for appropriate measures for further strengthening of Kodava culture and traditions.
Earlier, the Reception Committee Chairman Dr. Adengada A. Kuttappa hoisted the flag. Kodava Sahitya Academy Registrar Umarabba welcomed. Academy Chairman Biddatanda S. Thammaiah presided.
Mysuru Kodava Samaja President Moovera K. Kuttappa, Regional Commissioner Appachettolanda M. Kunjappa, Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation Chairman Shantheyanda Veena Achaiah, Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister Palachanda Brijesh Kalappa, former Hampi Kannada University VC Prof. H.J. Lakkappa Gowda, Karnataka Folklore University VC Prof. Ambalike Hiriyanna, Joint Director of Kannada and Culture Balwant Rao Patil, Department of Kannada and Culture Assistant Director (Kodagu) S.I. Bhavikatti and others were present.
The two-day event features a book exhibition, an informative expo on Kodava land, literature, culture and geographical features, Kodava Folk art contests followed by a host of cultural programmes. Tomorrow, the second and concluding day of the Mela, will feature kavighosti at 11 am followed by a seminar at 12 noon.
The valedictory will take place at 4 pm with former Agriculture University VC Prof. P.G. Chengappa delivering the valedictory address.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / March 12th, 2016
