Yas Lions Joins Abu Dhabi T10, Robin Uthappa Named Team Director

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Yas Lions have become the latest franchise confirmed for the new era of the Abu Dhabi T10, entering the tournament with West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder as Icon player, former India international Robin Uthappa as Team Director.

File photo of Robin Uthappa

Yas Lions have become the latest franchise confirmed for the new era of the Abu Dhabi T10, entering the tournament with West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder as Icon player, former India international Robin Uthappa as Team Director, and entrepreneur and investor Jeetu Kataria as owner. The Lions will make their tournament debut when the Abu Dhabi T10 returns to Zayed Cricket Stadium from November 7-20, joining an expanding 2026 line-up under the ownership of Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub (ADCSH) that already includes Arabian Aces, Emirates Eagles, UAE Bulls, United Tigers and Royal Desert Champions.

Yas Lions was created with a simple but ambitious belief: T10 cricket can play a meaningful role in taking the game to the world. The journey begins in Abu Dhabi, but the ambition is global.

Owner Jeetu Kataria brings close to two decades of experience across institutional capital markets, investment banking, asset management and financial technology. For Kataria, Yas Lions represents the opportunity to build something at the intersection of cricket, the UAE and long-term enterprise – not as a passive franchise owner, but to help create one of the best-run teams in the league, grounded in process, governance, respect for players and partners, and a clear competitive identity.

Robin Uthappa, a World Cup-winning former India international, takes on the Team Director role, where he will oversee the franchise’s cricketing strategy, player development and squad culture alongside the coaching staff. Uthappa was part of India’s 2007 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup-winning squad. Since closing his playing chapter in 2022, he has built a second career across entrepreneurship, broadcasting and high-performance coaching. His role with Yas Lions will also see him work closely on player recruitment and mentoring. Having long wanted to see cricket move beyond its traditional markets, Uthappa believes T10 offers one of the clearest pathways to new audiences – short, fast, entertaining and easy for first-time fans to understand.

Together, Kataria and Uthappa aim to combine cricketing credibility with a strong business backbone. The intention is not simply to own a franchise. It is to build one – a team known for integrity, a genuine hunger to win, the pride of unity, and a commitment to the growth of the game.

Matt Boucher, CEO of the Abu Dhabi T10 and its owner Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub (ADCSH), said: “Welcoming Yas Lions is another important step in our ambition to build the Abu Dhabi T10 into a truly global sporting property. With strong international investment, experienced leadership and world-class playing talent, franchises such as Yas Lions are integral to our strategy of expanding the tournament’s international reach, attracting new audiences and creating long-term value for the sport. Our vision extends well beyond the tournament itself. We want to establish Abu Dhabi as a leading international destination for cricket and major sporting events, bringing together global talent, commercial partnerships and passionate fans. Yas Lions share that ambition, and their arrival adds further momentum to an exciting new era for Abu Dhabi T10.”

Jeetu Kataria, Owner of Yas Lions, said: “Building Yas Lions is about applying the core principles I stand by – meticulous planning and a long-term vision. The Abu Dhabi T10 gives us an outstanding platform to build a franchise with a real identity, one grounded in process, governance and respect for players and partners. Having Robin lead our cricketing operation gives us a rare combination of championship experience and modern high-performance thinking. Together with Jason, Andries and David, we have the foundations of a squad built to compete from the first season itself. Our ambition is clear: build a contender, build a brand, and help take cricket to new audiences around the world.”

source: http://www.sports.ndtv.com / NDTV / Home> Sports Home> Cricket> News / by NDTV Sports Desk / September 29th, 2026

KSRTC to introduce new Rajahamsa service between Bengaluru and Bhagamandala in Kodagu

Business & Economy, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022)

The service will operate from Shantinagar Bus Stand in Bengaluru via Mysuru, Hunsur, Kushalnagar, Madikeri and Karagunda, providing a direct overnight connection to Bhagamandala, a release states. | Photo Credit: FILE PHOTO

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will introduce a new Rajahamsa bus service between Bengaluru and Bhagamandala in Kodagu from October 1, 2026, according to KSRTC Bengaluru Central Division.

The service will operate from Shantinagar Bus Stand in Bengaluru via Mysuru, Hunsur, Kushalnagar, Madikeri and Karagunda, providing a direct overnight connection to Bhagamandala, the release stated.

The bus will depart from Shantinagar at 10.30 p.m. and reach the Mysuru Road Bus Stand at 11.16 p.m., Madikeri at 5.15 a.m. and Bhagamandala at 6.15 a.m. On the return journey, the bus will leave Bhagamandala at 8.30 p.m., reach Madikeri at 10 p.m. and arrive at Shantinagar Bus Stand at 4.30 a.m.

The fare from Bengaluru to Madikeri has been fixed at ₹545 for adults and ₹296 for children, while the fare to Bhagamandala will be ₹608 for adults and ₹328 for children, according to the release.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / September 29th, 2026

Field Marshal Cariappa’s Canberra legacy remembered in Indian High Commissioner Nagesh Singh’s Commonwealth Club address

Defence Services (Air,Land,Sea),Police (wef. Dec 09th, 2021), Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Nri's / Pio's, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , ,

Image: India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Nagesh Singh addressing the Commonwealth Club of Australia’s Capital Lecture Series Dinner in Canberra (Source: X)

India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Nagesh Singh, has highlighted the deepening India–Australia relationship and its historic foundations while addressing the Commonwealth Club of Australia’s Capital Lecture Series Dinner in Canberra.

Singh was the distinguished guest speaker at the event, where he reflected on the longstanding connections between the two countries, their shared Indo-Pacific outlook and the growing breadth of the bilateral partnership.

He also highlighted the enduring legacy of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, who served as India’s High Commissioner to Australia and played a pivotal role in establishing the Commonwealth Club in Canberra in 1954.

Cariappa arrived in Australia in 1953 and envisioned a neutral and welcoming space where diplomats and members of the local community could meet and interact as equals.

In January 1954, he presented the idea to then Australian Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies, who encouraged the initiative. Cariappa subsequently brought together community members to establish what became the Commonwealth Club.

The club went on to attract 116 foundation members and welcomed women as members from its beginning. Its first premises were at historic Old Canberra House before it moved to its present Yarralumla location in 1965.

Today, the Commonwealth Club describes itself as a longstanding meeting place for Canberra’s diplomatic, political and community circles, continuing the tradition of connection established by its founders.

Cariappa’s contribution came during an important period in India–Australia relations.

Well-known Australian historian Prof. David Walker has observced that India was among the most persistent international critics of Australia’s White Australia policy during the 1950s, with India’s concerns contributing to wider debate within Australia.

Despite the difficult political environment of the era, Cariappa developed strong personal connections in Canberra and became a well-known figure in Australian social and diplomatic circles.

Cariappa, a distinguished military officer and later India’s first Field Marshal, was also known for his interest in Indian philosophical traditions, including the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.

He arrived in Australia in September 1953 accompanied by his 12-year-old daughter, Nalini, and his niece Sagari Chengappa, who assisted him as hostess at official functions.

The Commonwealth Club’s history reflects Canberra’s evolution from a small early settlement into Australia’s national capital and the development of its diplomatic and community networks.

More than seven decades after its establishment, the club continues to promote the values of connection, diplomacy and community that shaped its foundation.

Singh’s address brought that history into the context of contemporary India–Australia relations, as the two countries continue to expand cooperation across trade, education, defence, technology, critical minerals and the broader Indo-Pacific.

source: http://www.theaustraliatoday.com / The Australia Today / Home> News / by Amit Sarwal / September 26th, 2026

Three district judges sworn in as additional judges of Karnataka HC

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Karnataka HC / File Photo | Express

Bengaluru :

Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office to Usharani, KS Bharath Kumar and NV Bhavani as Additional Judges of the High Court of Karnataka, at a ceremony held at the glass house of Lok Bhavan on Friday.

The trio was elevated from the district judiciary as additional judges of the High Court.

Justice Usharani, from Dakshina Kannada district, completed her BA (Law) and LLB from Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College in Mangaluru, began judicial service as a Munsiff in 1998.

Justice Bharath Kumar from Virajpet graduated from National Law School of India University, Bengaluru. He was appointed as a district judge in 2015.

Justice Bhavani from Mysuru is the daughter of former judge of the High Court, late NS Veerabhadraiah. She graduated from NLSIU and practised in Bengaluru. She entered the district judiciary in 2015 and served in Mangaluru, Ballari, Chikkaballapura and Bengaluru.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / September 27th, 2026

Asian Games 2026: TN CM Vijay announces reward for squash duo Joshna Chinappa-Velavan Senthilkumar

Amazing Feats, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All, Sports, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , ,

The Indian duo won a bronze medal in the squash mixed doubles at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya.

Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar secured a bronze medal in the squash mixed doubles event at the Asian Games. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY

Indian squash mixed doubles players Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar secured a bronze medal at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 at Aichi-Nagoya on Saturday.

The duo lost went down to Hong Kong China’s Lee Ka Yi and Tang Ming Hong 1-2 (10-11, 11-2, 10-11) in the semifinals.

Tamil Nadu chief minister C. Joseph Vijay announced a cash prize of INR 30 lakh for the two athletes.

“My heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to squash players Joshna Chinnappa and Velavan Senthilkumar, who have brought pride to India and Tamil Nadu by winning the bronze medal in the Mixed Doubles category of Squash at the ongoing Asian Games in Japan,” he said via a statement on X.

“In appreciation of the great achievement of these heroes, the Tamil Nadu Government will provide a high incentive of Rs. 30 lakhs each. Their victory will give new inspiration and hope to the young generation of athletes of Tamil Nadu,” he added.

Vijay had earlier announced cash rewards for athlete Baranica Elangovan, badminton player A. Hariharan, cricketer G. Kamalini, and relay runners Vishal T.K. and Vithya Ramraj.

source: http://www.sportstar.thehindu.com / Sportstar / Home> Asian Games 2026 / by Sportstar News Desk / September 26th, 2026

Coffee Board brews sustainability push with new certification framework

Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), , , , ,

Sustainability standards on the anvil | Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

The Coffee Board has developed sustainability standards and is in the process of implementing the certification process, said Kurma Rao, its Chief Executive Officer and Secretary.

India, the world’s seventh-largest coffee producer and fifth-largest exporter, exported coffee worth more than $2 billion in 2025-26, with nearly 39% comprising value-added products., he said.

Indian coffee’s distinctive advantage lies in its traditional shade-grown cultivation, which the Board aims to leverage through the new sustainability standards.

“We have published the standards. We are in the process of implementing the certification and a steering committee has been formed for it,” he told The Hindu.

The certification will be done at three levels – first will be done by the Board based on self certification by the growers. The second level will involve independent third-party verification, while the third level will benchmark Indian standards against internationally recognised sustainability frameworks.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Business / by M Soundariya Preetha / September 25th, 2026

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary review: A luxury escape in India’s coffee country

Business & Economy, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), , , , ,

Sprawling villas, Ayurvedic wellness and warm service define nature-led retreat in Karnataka’s Western Ghats.

The cool, coffee-covered hills of Coorg have long been a favourite escape from Bengaluru, the southern Indian tech hub formerly known as Bangalore. About five hours away by road, the region in Karnataka is known for its lush forests, vast plantations and slower pace of life.

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary sits comfortably within this landscape, and the first thing you notice on arrival is just how much space there is. While most luxury resorts squeeze villas, restaurants and swimming pools into a few carefully landscaped acres, The Leela sprawls across an entire hillside, making you feel less like you have checked into a hotel and more like you have temporarily acquired a small plantation in Coorg – which, come to think of it, is something of an Indian dream.

Spread across 30 hectares, the property began life as a coffee plantation and has wisely resisted the temptation to manicure away its origins. Robusta and Arabica coffee plants, pepper vines, fruiting fig trees and towering silver oaks still punctuate the landscape. Malabar parakeets and barbets flit through the trees, while the occasional Malabar giant flying squirrel makes a dramatic appearance overhead. It is easy to see why The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts calls its latest offering a “sanctuary”.

The opening comes as The Leela marks its 40th anniversary. A brand known for its polished resorts and palace hotels – and a favourite destination for the big fat Indian wedding – takes a somewhat different approach in Coorg, putting nature and wellness at the heart of the guest experience.

The welcome

The hotel sends a BMW 5 Series to collect me from Bengaluru, a pleasant bonus given the traffic on Indian roads. As we drive into Coorg, the road gradually ascends into the ancient Western Ghats. The air cools, the landscape grows lush and mist settles over the valleys. By the time I arrive, city life feels like a distant memory.

Indian hospitality rarely believes in understated arrivals, and The Leela follows the template. Five people appear to welcome me, all smiles and hovering care. A young woman in a sari sprinkles water from the sacred Kaveri river; another offers a garland made of coffee beans and cardamom pods. The soaring bamboo lobby reminds me of both a Zaha Hadid and Balinese design aesthetic.

In short order, I am assigned a butler, Manisha, a pleasant and brisk 26-year-old who takes care of my needs for the next three days.

An electric golf cart is the preferred mode of transportation, and I soon discover why. The property is large but its red-brick buildings are tucked into the landscape. The downside is the terrain. My villa is in the valley; the lobby is almost at the summit. Walking between the two could count as cardio, not that I ever choose this option.

The neighbourhood

The resort is near Madikeri in the heart of Coorg, or Kodagu as it is known locally. This is coffee country, with forested hills, waterfalls and a distinctive Kodava culture.

One morning, we drive for about 90 minutes to Talakaveri, regarded as the source of the Kaveri river. The road winds through misty hills to the river’s birthplace, a place of considerable beauty and religious significance. Standing there, I finally understand why nearly every girl I have met from Coorg is named Kaveri.

The room

The property is entirely villa-based, with sizes ranging from 80 square metres to 930 square metres for the presidential villa. I stay in the Forestlight Luxury Villa which, at 300 square metres, is larger than the Manhattan apartment I once owned.

I enter through a blue door into an open veranda and al fresco dining area, complete with a Gaggia coffee machine. Outside is a private infinity pool, heated pool and hot tub, along with two massage tables and a hammock.

Inside, a king-size bed opens on to the veranda. The generous bathroom has indoor and outdoor showers, his-and-her sinks and a separate dressing area with luggage storage and a safe.

The scene

Secluded resorts have one perennial problem: how to keep guests entertained without making them feel they are at summer camp. This Leela sanctuary has plenty of answers.

Guests can kayak on the lake, try catch-and-release fishing or visit the petting zone, where cows, goats, horses, rabbits, turkeys and, somewhat incongruously, emus share space. On rainy afternoons, a games area offers carrom, chess, table tennis, foosball, pool and a giant carrom board made with Pakistani marble.

As a birdwatcher, I also enjoy a morning walk with resident naturalist Emmanuel, who introduces me to some of the property’s blue birds, butterflies, trees, mushrooms and spices.

The service

Service is one of The Leela’s strengths. Staff seem encouraged to anticipate rather than merely respond. Manisha unpacks my bag, prepares a cheese platter, and ferries me around the property for spa and yoga appointments. Restaurant waitstaff remember my preferences, and offer choices and alternatives.

The naturalists are eager to share their love for the land and its non-human inhabitants. Even the staff who cart me around in the golf buggies are solicitous. The guest experience co-ordinator, Yashmita, puts together an itinerary that is both inclusive and flexible, important for a resort that emphasises relaxation.

The wellness

Aujasya by The Leela Spa occupies 2,500 square metres and combines Ayurveda with contemporary treatments, fitness facilities and relaxation areas.

On my first day, I try the Turkish hammam – this is the only resort in the region to have one – where two therapists massage, polish and exfoliate my skin as I lie on a heated marble table. I emerge feeling squeaky clean and, dare I say it, a few grams lighter.

The following day brings an Ayurvedic shirodhara by the serene Ruby. After an oil massage, warm oil is streamed over my forehead and head for about 20 minutes. It is blissfully relaxing, particularly for restless minds.

The food

Luma, the all-day dining restaurant, is spacious and serves excellent regional and international food, with live counters offering Japanese, Middle Eastern, Indian, European and pan-Asian dishes. Try the Coorg dishes for a taste of the region.

Zen serves beautifully plated pan-Asian food in a garden setting. The desserts with Japanese Nama chocolate are elegant. Here, too, the waitstaff point out ingredients and details in a way that elevates the experience.

The Cellar serves excellent mocktails using local herbs and spices.

At 92 Degrees, the property’s coffee lounge and library, guests can explore the bean-to-cup journey and learn more about Coorg’s coffee heritage, a great way to connect to the spirit of the place.

The verdict

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary combines spacious villas with warm, attentive service and an extensive range of activities and wellness experiences. Its greatest luxury, however, is that it offers time and space for guests to disconnect from the city without compromising on comfort. For travellers seeking a nature-led luxury escape in South India, it makes a persuasive case.

The bottom line

Villa rates start from $580 per night, including 18 per cent tax. Check-in is from 2pm and check-out is at 11am.

This review was conducted at the invitation of the hotel and reflects hotel standards during this time. Services may change in the future.

source: http://www.thenationalnews.com / The National / Home> Lifestyle> Travel> Hotel / by Shoba Narayan / September 25th, 2026

Enters Guinness World Records for ‘Largest Reading & Listening Contest’

Amazing Feats, Education, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , ,

Mysuru: 

Dr. Vani C Raghavendra (hailing from Chammanamada family in Kodagu and currently residing in Mysuru) has entered the Guinness World Records for her participation and contribution to the “Largest Reading and Listening Competition,” organised by Ebek Language Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, India.

Dr. Vani achieved this milestone and received the official Guinness World Record certificate by actively completing all stages of the competition and accurately answering the quiz questions within the required time limits.

This achievement stands as a testament to her dedication, hard work and profound passion for education.

As an educator at Sadviveka School, Dr. Vani is committed to building self-confidence and essential life skills among her students.

Believing that education brings both knowledge and the power to transform lives, Dr. Vani shared that this record is a dream realised through the support of her mentors, family, friends, colleagues and students.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 24th, 2026

Diya Bheemaiah selected for World Junior Badminton

Sports, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), World Opinion

Mysuru: 

Diya Bheemaiah of Kodagu has been selected to represent India at the BWF World Junior Badminton Championships to be held in Cairo, Egypt, from Oct. 5 to 7.

In the selection trials conducted at the National Centre of Excellence (NCE) Badminton Academy from Sept. 18 to 21, Boppanda Diya Bheemaiah teamed up with Haryana’s Baruni Parshwal, putting on an exceptional performance to claim the available spot.

Having already represented the country in this year’s Asian Championships (Japan), the Dutch and German Junior Internationals, Diya will represent the country at the prestigious World Junior Badminton. She currently training at the Badminton Association of India’s National Centre for Excellence (NCE) in Guwahati, Assam.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Diya Bheemaiah said, “I feel very happy to be selected for the Indian team. I am proud to have represented the country in three major tournaments including the German Open, Dutch Open, Asian Games this year and now at the BWF Junior World Championship.”

A resident of Rajarajeshwarinagar in Mysuru, Diya’s father, B.B. Bheemaiah, is a badminton coach while her mother, K.K. Kusuma (Kambiranda), a former international athlete, works as a fitness coach. Diya’s younger brother, B.B. Vishal Uthappa, is also a badminton player.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / September 24th, 2026

Book on Kodava traditions, culture, heritage released

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Historical Links / Pre-Independence, Leaders, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022)), Uncategorized, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mysuru: 

‘Kodava Veera Janangada Antaratma Part-1’, written by Iythichanda Ramesh Uthappa, was released recently at the Kodava Samaja in Ponnampet. The event was organised by Jabbhoomi Charitable Trust.

Virajpet MLA and Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna released the book and stressed the need for Kodavas to preserve their inherited customs and values without being influenced by external forces.

The book focuses on the uniqueness and nuances of Kodava culture and seeks to highlight the importance of preserving traditional values.

It also attempts to challenge colonial historical narratives through researched accounts, references and documentation of Kodagu’s oral traditions.

The author examines the underlying meanings of various Kodava customs, heritage and regional practices, besides highlighting the spiritual and cultural ties the community has historically maintained with its ‘Guru Karonas’.

Speaking after releasing the book, Ponnanna said Kodavas should never forget their authentic traditions and practices. He appreciated the author’s efforts in preparing the comprehensive volume and said documentation was vital to the community’s ongoing demand for inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes list.

Jabbhoomi Trust’s Chottekmada Rajiv Bopaiah said the book was the outcome of more than two years of collecting records and historical material relating to Kodava attire, rituals and traditions.

“This is the first step in recording our culture in a way that allows us to proudly claim it as our own,” he said.

Author Ramesh Uthappa said the book was an effort to pass Kodava practices on to the next generation by documenting what he had learnt from elders. He said the work avoided distorted history and instead presented factual accounts of Kodava life. “Such works will play a crucial role in legally documenting Kodava rights and existence,” he said.

The author also interacted with the audience and explained various aspects of the book, citing examples of the uniqueness and nuances of Kodava culture.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Articles / September 24th, 2026