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When spirit of nature and animals comes alive

It narrates the ancestral connection with the elements of nature and recounts mythological tales.

Madikeri : 

Rhythmic and upbeat songs fill the air across the villages of South Kodagu during summer. Dressed in bright and colourful attire, villagers dance to the rhythm of nature and mythology while visiting each house – marking the celebration of the unique festival ‘Bodu Namme’ aka ‘Bedu Habba’. People dress as brightly coloured tigers in body paint and slush smeared hay, as bamboo horses and elephants… to an outsider, it seems like a mass fancy dress event.

However, this unique festival of the indigenous tribes of Kodagu is much more than fun and frolic. It narrates the ancestral connection with the elements of nature and recounts mythological tales.

Following the ‘Cauvery Theerthodbhava’ (gushing of river Cauvery at Talacauvery) festival in October, the ‘Bodu Namme’ is kindled at the Kunda Hills near Ponnampet in South Kodagu. Rituals are offered at the Ishwara Temple in the village, marking the beginning of the ‘Bodu’ festive season. Post the first ‘Bodu Namme’, several other villages in South Kodagu celebrate the festival after the Kodava New Year (in April) and each village narrates its rich folkloric culture. The festival is linked to the folklore of Ishwara and Bhadrakali.

There is a Kodava saying  – ‘Kundathl Bottl Nhenda Kudure, Paranamanil Alunja Kudre’ – that states that the horse (made of bamboo) that was raised in the Kunda Hills marking the beginning of ‘Bodu Namme’ will be sacrificed at Paranamani, ending the annual festivity. “At Paranamani, the festival is about the story of deity Ishwara and demon Basmasura. Three horses and two elephants made of bamboo collected from the sacred grove in the village are worshipped and later sacrificed,” explained Raghu Machaiah, a resident of Paranamani.

Mythological stories connected to each village are unique, he says. “The different costumes in which the villagers dress up during the festival depict the different forms of Lord Ishwara.” Another story links ‘Bodu Namme’ to the story of the deity Bhadrakali. “In the deity’s ferocious avatar, no one could calm her down. To appease her, devotees worship her in different attire. Tiger, hay costumes, cross-dressing by men of the village are ways to placate the goddess,” narrate Parvathi Chengappa and Kundranda Sannu Pemmaiah of Aimangala village.

Villages in South Kodagu –  Chembebelluru, Aimangala, Parana, Kavadi, Bilugunda, Nalvathoklu, Kutandhi, and Aarji – observe the festival. “Natives here are indigenous and Ishwara worshippers,” explained Parvathi. As was inevitable, modernity touched the tradition of outlandish dressing. Politicians, famous and infamous personalities, film actors, comedians, and mafia kingpins have found their way into the festival of appeasing Goddess Bhadrakali and Lord Ishwara. During the festival, people visit every home across the village to offer prayers and seek blessings.

Apart from the fascinating fusion of colours, the festival also stresses the protection of nature with many restrictions, including a ban on cutting trees during the celebrations. “The history of ‘Bodu Namme’ dates back to ancestral times, and the rituals and culture of this festival have stood the test of time. While it looks exciting, there is a religious aspect to the festival. In an era of rapid urbanisation, the festival unites villagers and speaks of love, trust and harmony,” opined Shashi Somaiah, a resident of Madikeri.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / May 22nd, 2022

Edifices of togetherness

Edifices of togetherness
TRADITIONAL Devanageri Mukkatira Ain Mane

The invigorating aroma of the coffee blossoms carried by chilled breeze, the midnight green ambience along the loopy roads… it is not just the abundant natural beauty that makes Kodagu a distinct place. Its people — the Kodavas — with discrete culture and heritage, boost the glory of this coffee land.

Be it the language (Coorgie), cuisine, attire or rituals, Kodava culture moves away from the humdrum reckoning a distinct ethnic identity. And safeguarding this ethnicity while preserving their way of life is the architectural legacy known as the ain mane or ballya mane. 

Ain Manes (ain in Coorgie translates to original) are the ancestral heritage homes of the Kodavas that reflect the eminence of a sanctum sanctorum. With quintessential framework, an archetypal heritage home comprises traditionally-carved wooden , bricked white and red walls, intricately-carved wooden doorways and windows. With a typical style, each of them has an unmatched old-world charm.

Every corner of the house is given a name and holds mythical importance. With two types — the othe pore (single roofed house) and mundh mane (courtyard house) — the traditional features of ain manes include kannikamba (a sacrosanct pillar), kayyale (verandah), aimaras (wooden slabs in the verandah), machi (wooden ceiling), mundh (open courtyard) and kannikombre (worship room). Most of the ain manes have kaimadas – a sacred shrine built to worship the ancestors. Since the existence of nuclear families, there were outhouses built around the premises called ale pore.

While the interiors reflect somber and subdued beauty, its exteriors manifest valour and strength. As Chakku Chengappa, a member of Nadikerianda clan, explains, “Hidden and safeguarded amidst the estate were the fort-like structures of ballya mane (ballya means huge); built in this manner to prevent an ambush from enemies. The entrance to the ain mane has many sections. There is a long curvy oni (alley), bakka pare and ala pare (extensions of the alley), which lead to the verandah.”

Nonagenarian Nadikerianda Muthamma adds, “The Kodava women were known to be beautiful, and this is why ain manes needed to be protected at the time of British rule. However, today the ain manes play an important role in reuniting families.”

“Much more than just a roof over the head, ain manes are an important part of the tangible heritage of the native community of Kodagu,” write Boverianda Chinnappa and Nanjamma in their book Ainmanes of Kodagu. Built in the ancestral or the jamma land the ain mane is a binding force that is a pillar of strength — both literally and figuratively. Many findings state that the inception of the concept of ain mane dates back to eighth century.

The origins

“The early settlers of Kodagu stayed in forests as a family. Due to feudal fights, it was common for people with the same bloodline to stay together in a small thatched hut. These settlements grew in size and became stronger, which made the ruling king seek their support. In return, the king gifted them land, which is the jamma land. As their living conditions improved, they built a strong fort-like structure on the jamma land, which came to be known as ain mane or ballya mane,” explains Boverianda Nanjamma.

However, the architectural style takes its root from Kerala. She adds, “Kodagu grew paddy abundantly but depended largely on Kerala for other commodities. During the travel for exchange of commodities, the Kodavas were pleased by the Kerala architectural style and there flowed workmanship from Kerala to build the ain mane.”

While there are over 900 clans in existence in Kodagu, not all of them have an ain mane. Nanjamma explains, “During the research work for our book, we found out that many deteriorating ain manes were never rebuilt.” According to their findings, only 40% of the ain manes were renovated keeping the tradition intact and the rest did not see the light of the new era.

Today, there are over 400 ain manes in existence and each of them belongs to a patriarchal clan, which is recognised by unique family names known as mane pedas. They bustle with ritualistic celebrations during festivities including Putthari, Kailpodh and annual kola (spirit dance). “The annual hockey matches conducted between families shed light on the revival of ain manes,” opines Kayapanda Shashi Somaiah, a journalist in Kodagu. Nonetheless, the revival of the ain manes are not just a process of renovation of age-old structures but also a resurgence of Kodava culture.

Unity in diversity

The Kundyolanda clan, which has 35 families, has its ain mane in Kolakeri village that was recently renovated to its pre-eminence. The rituals followed in this ain mane are uncompromising and many. “It is a family temple for us. We strictly adhere to the rituals and it is mandatory for women to wear traditional Coorgie saree and vastra (veil) over the head while entering the house. Apart from this, there are various other restrictions followed religiously in the ain mane,” explains Kundyolanda Dinesh, owner of a hotel.

They have a 400-year-old othe pore ain mane with 14 rooms, but there is no one residing here. However, it is made sure that lamps are lit twice a day and the house is maintained meticulously. “Each nuclear family of the clan takes turn to maintain the house and no one can back out from their duties,” he explains.

The Nadikerianda clan, with over 40 families, has a mundh ain mane in Karada village, which bustles with ritualistic activities during the festivals. A diligently maintained heritage home, it reflects the glory of the past and is keeping alive the the culture and traditions. A 350-year-old house, it has a kaimada and a snake shrine in its premises. With 10 rooms, it has a beautifully-carved wooden window frame and a small wooden post box at the entrance. The huge mundh open to the skies is supported by four wooden pillars — all carved differently.

The Arapattu Mukkatira clan has their ain mane in Kadanga village. With 13 rooms, the uniqueness of this ain mane is that it has two mundhs and two kayyales. A 300-year-old structure, it is said that the temple treasure from the village Bhagavathi Temple was locked safely in a wooden treasure box kept in the attic of this ain mane. This wooden treasure box still lies in the attic. “We are a clan of 45 families. The age-old rituals are still in practice here. The renovation of the house is soon to take place with help from all the family members,” explains Katty Uthappa, deputy manager of a bank.

The Biddanda family has the ain mane built in the property gifted by King Veeraraja in 1795. With eight partitions in this mundh mane, there is a kaimada close by and the pictures of ancestors of eight generations can be seen hanging on the wall at the entrance. “One of our ancestors, Sarvakayaka Bopanna, was very close to the king. His (Bopanna’s) tombstone is right next to King Veeraraja’s tombstone,” explains Biddanda S Ganapathi, a retired navy officer.

The ain manes are a matter of pride to the Kodavas and are unique to their ethnicity. This uniqueness in architecture has been adopted by many resorts in Kodagu that woo the tourists. However, ain manes do not just demonstrate pride but bespeak culture. They are the souls of Kodava rituals, and their revival provides a surety to Kodavas’ customs and legacy.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> India> Karnataka / by DHNS / January 24th, 2017

Dr Vishwa Cariappa of San Group honored with ‘ET Achievers of Award’

Dr Vishwa Cariappa of San Group honored with ‘ET Achievers of Award'
MD of San Group of Companies, Dr Vishwa Cariappa Receives Prestigious ‘ET Achievers Award’

Dr Vishwa Cariappa, BS, the Managing Director of the San Group of Companies, was recently honored with the prestigious “ET Achievers of Award” for Emerging Plot Developer of the Year at a glittering ceremony in Bengaluru on October 3, 2023. This distinguished award, presented by the Economic Times, was bestowed upon him by the renowned actress Padma Shri Raveena Tandon.

Upon receiving this esteemed recognition, Dr B.S. Vishwa Cariappa expressed his gratitude and dedication, stating, “This award serves as an inspiration for me to strive for even greater excellence.” The “ET Achievers—Karnataka 2023” award is designed to acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in various fields.

Dr Cariappa’s commitment to social responsibility is exemplified through his involvement with the ‘Karnataka Dharmadrishti Souharda Credit Co-operative Society.’ Under the guidance of Swami Vigyananand Ji, the founder and Global Chairman of the World Hindu Foundation, this society provides long-term loans with remarkably low interest rates and accessible EMI options for repayment, spanning 10–15 years.

Over a legacy spanning 17 years, the San Group of Companies, under the visionary leadership of Dr Vishwa Cariappa, has cultivated a distinctive workplace culture where employees are treated as valued friends. The company’s remarkable achievement of retaining 50 to 60 employees for nearly 15 years is a testament to its commitment to employee welfare. The present workforce of 500 continues to contribute to the company’s success, having successfully sold 1 crore square feet of land.

Managing a conglomerate of 14 companies, including a technology company, Property and Developers, Viscon Constructions, and San Palace (Kalyan Mandir), Dr. Cariappa has successfully diversified his business portfolio. The esteemed San Palace, often referred to as the ‘National Gem,’ stands as a symbol of grandeur and hosts various ceremonies and events.

Dr Vishwa Cariappa’s dedication to social welfare extends beyond business into education and healthcare. He has expressed his commitment to donate land and Rs. 1 crore for the establishment of a multispecialty hospital to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His educational initiatives, San International and San PU College, are dedicated to providing free education to economically disadvantaged students. Furthermore, he offers free housing to senior employees of the company.

Upon receiving this prestigious award, Cariappa expressed his delight, saying, “I am deeply honored to be a recipient of such a distinguished award.” He further added, “San Group embarked on a journey with the goal of achieving excellence in the real estate industry, and today the company has expanded into several sectors. In the face of the formidable challenges posed by the COVID pandemic, San City emerged as an exemplary leader in this sector. We navigated through the highs and lows with unwavering determination. This award also serves as an encouragement to continue serving more people in the future.”

For more information, you can visit the official website: http://www.sancity1.com/

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SRV Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

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source: http://www.theprint.in / The Print / Home> ANI Press Releases / by ANI PR / October 03rd, 2023

Karnataka’s Kodagu district ranks 7th in global tourist searches

In 2023, the district claimed the 3rd spot among the most searched tourist destinations by Indians, with Goa securing 2nd place and Kashmir at 6th.

Karnataka's Kodagu district ranks 7th in global tourist searches
Waterfalls in Kodagu.

Kodagu: 

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, Kodagu district in Karnataka continues to enchant tourists globally, securing the 7th position among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations.

The recognition comes as a testament to the district’s breathtaking natural beauty and popular attractions, making it a sought-after destination for millions.

Kodagu’s captivating scenery, including verdant hills adorned with lush green forests and glistening streams, transforms into a winter wonderland during the cold and rainy seasons, drawing visitors from far and wide.

In 2023, the district claimed the 3rd spot among the most searched tourist destinations by Indians, with Goa securing 2nd place and Kashmir at 6th.

Home to over 18 prominent tourist spots, such as Madikeri Rajaseet, Abbifalls, Cauvery Nisarga Dhama, Dubare elephant Camp, Abbifalls, and Irpufalls, Kodagu witnesses a substantial influx of tourists, with more than 1 lakh visitors on weekends and 30 thousand on weekdays.

The district boasts over 4 thousand homestays and 1000 resorts, all bustling with activity during the year-end.

Nagendra Prasad, President of the Hotel and Resort Owners Association, noted that the surge in tourists during the year-end festivities emphasizes the district’s growing popularity.

The 7th global ranking positions Kodagu alongside renowned destinations like Goa, Bali, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar, Italy, and Switzerland.

Lush greenery, waterfalls

The lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers of Kodagu leave an indelible mark on visitors, contributing to its rising fame.

The Tourism Department of Kodagu acknowledges the significance of Rajaseeti in Madikeri, the nature reserve, and Dubare as prime attractions. Plans are underway to develop user-friendly websites for tourists, enhancing accessibility to information about these sites.

Speaking to Siasat.com Anita Bhaskar, Deputy Director of the Tourism Department, expressed joy at Kodagu consistently captivating the world’s attention in terms of tourism.

The surge in Google searches for Kodagu’s tourist destinations reflects the district’s universal appeal and marks a significant milestone in its tourism development.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> India / by Diganth Kengeri / December 15th, 2023

Inauguration Of Kodagu Gowda Samaja’s New Auditorium

Kodagu Gowda Samaja President Thotambylaya E. Manohar said that the new auditorium of Kodagu Gowda Samaja at Vijayanagar Railway Layout in the city will be inaugurated on Dec. 23 at 9.30 am.

Addressing media persons at Pathrakarthara Bhavan in city yesterday, Manohar said the auditorium built on the top of the existing building will be inaugurated by Adichunchanagiri Mutt Seer Dr. Sri Nirmalananda-natha Swamiji and Adhi-chunchanagiri Mutt, Mysuru branch’s Someshwaranatha Swamiji. Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simmha, MLA K. Harishgowda, former MLAs L. Nagendra and Vasu, President of Kodagu Gowda Samaja Okkoota Soorthale R. Somanna,  former Corporator K.V. Sridhar and others  will participate.

Kodagu Gowda Samaja Vice-President Kuyyamudi B. Ramappa, Honorary Secretary Kuntikana S. Ganapathy, Assistant Secretary Kaleramma M. Nanaiah, Directors Naduvettira G. Lakshmana and Kombarana U. Basappa were present at the press meet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / December 20th, 2023

NGO revives border school in Kodagu by introducing smart class

The High School was on the verge of closure after three teachers posted at the school opted for transfers. The school is located on the Kerala-Kodagu border.

Smart class

Madikeri:

The Kannada High School of Karike, the border government school, is in a revival mode following the efforts of an NGO. It has now been turned into a smart class even as teachers have volunteered to take online classes for the rural kids.

The High School was on the verge of closure after three teachers posted at the school opted for transfers. The school is located on the Kerala-Kodagu border. It had just one permanent teacher this academic year who is also the acting Head Master. The residents of the village were fearful of the future of their kids. Nevertheless, the NGO Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM) has come to the aid of the students in this government school.

“SVYM was active in the district from 2017 as we introduced mobile science labs to the students of government schools after tying up with Rotary institutions. We were approached by the district education department to depute teachers to the border school at Karike,” explained Praveen Kumar S, the education head and CEO of SVYM.

As a first approach, SVYM requested the network of teachers volunteering with the NGO to take classes at the Karike School. Three teachers volunteered for the initiative.

“During the break or vacation period, the three teachers visited the school at Karike and conducted classes. Over 100 students of the school visited the institution during the Dasara holiday to be part of the classes,” he added.

As a second approach, SVYM called for more teachers to volunteer to teach in the institution.

“Under the initiative of Vignyana Vedike, SVYM has a big network of Science and Math teachers. These teachers are state awardees who volunteer with us to help support the education of government school kids. They visited Karike and taught the students,” he said.

Further, as the third approach, SVYM introduced smart classes at the school. Audio-visual study content developed by the NGO was used to teach the students Math and Science lessons and this arrangement will continue at the institution till the end of the academic year.

“The problem at the Karike school will find a permanent solution only with the appointment of teachers. Nevertheless, we have started online classes through smart class setup and this will continue regularly till the end of this academic year,” he confirmed.

SVYM has supported over 300 government schools and reached over 45000 students through its School Education Programme.

“We have been working across government schools in the state for the past 15 to 16 years. From providing learning resources, capacity building of staff and infrastructure building, we focus on empowering government schools to provide quality education to the students,” he concluded.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 22nd, 2023

Rare variety of lemons weigh 5 kg in Kodagu

HIGHLIGHTS

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg.

Madikeri:

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg. Local laborers and farmers are astonished at the sight of these unusually large garden lemons.

The unique lemons have thrived in the coffee estate of Mookonda Viju Subramani, a former Zilla Panchayat member and prominent social worker. The lemon plants, have reached a height of about 6 feet and bear lemons ranging from small to an impressive 5 kg in size.

Mookonda Viju Subramani, the owner of the plantation, shared the story behind the rare lemon variety, saying, “Four years ago, I purchased citrus fruits from the Mysuru market. I planted the seeds in the backyard, and within a few days, two saplings emerged. After transplanting them to the garden using organic manure, the plants grew for three years but did not produce flowers or fruits. Consequently, I was unable to identify the plant. A few months ago, the plant blossomed with large, jasmine-like flowers, which eventually transformed into pods. Over the next few months, these pods grew into enormous lemons.”

This particular lemon variety is rarely found in Italy and other European countries. Known for its adaptability to various climates, the oval fruits contain small seeds, and their dull skin encases juicy pulp. Often used in the preparation of pickles and cold drinks, the lemons also boast several health and medicinal benefits. The unexpected growth of these rare and massive lemons has sparked excitement and curiosity among locals in Polibetta, Kodagu.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by The Hans India, Hans News Service / December 25th, 2023

Youngster Abhin Rai from Kodagu emerges as champion of Indian National Rally Championship

Abhin was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally.

Abhin Rai (centre) awarded the Rising Star trophy at Kodagu; Abhin Rai in action during the INRC rally. (Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

A youngster from Kodagu is emerging as the favorite driver in the motor rally world even as he was declared the National Champion 2023 at the Indian National Rally Championship. Abhin Rai, a 24-year-old motor enthusiast from the district, shares his dream and experience at the recent rally.

Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) is a pan-India rally championship that was held across six stages this year. The rally began at Arunachal Pradesh and then was held at Chennai, Coimbatore, Kodagu, and Bengaluru.

Abhin enthusiastically took part in this rally and has emerged as the champion. He was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally. He also won the Rising Star award during the rally at Kodagu. 

“Ideal Racing has supported me throughout the rally and my Honda City was perfectly tuned by Amshad Pasha.

Each category has a different number of participants and they were over 60 in all. The overall experience was great despite facing technical issues in Hyderabad,” shared Abhin. He turned up first in three stages and fifth in Coimbatore. However, he did not finish the rally in Hyderabad due to technical troubles. Nevertheless, his unabated performance helped him emerge as the champion.

He started off rallying only in 2022 and he participated only at the K1000 rally last year. “I could not finish the rally then and it was like a test run,” he recalled.

However, in his second year as a rallyist, Abhin has made everyone’s head turn. “I started driving at a very young age and I drove at an autocross in a pickup. I later bought a race car without the knowledge of my folks and I attended races discreetly. However, after winning several trophies, I revealed my passion to my parents, who are now very supportive,” he added.

Apart from the national championship, Abhin has won 48 trophies in autocross even as he has bigger dreams for the sport.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 24th, 2023

Sangeetha Raviraj conferred with Gowramma Endowment Award

Writer Sangeetha Raviraj was presented with the Gowramma Endowment Fund Award given by the District Unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishat.

gowramma endowment award for sangeetha raviraj

Madikeri: 

Kannada Sahitya Parishat district unit president Sangeetha Raviraj was conferred with the Gowramma Endowment Fund Award for Kodagu.

She was felicitated with a shawl and fruits and tambourines at a function held at Saraswathi DEd College auditorium in the city on Monday. Speaking on the occasion, Sangeetha Raviraj said that valuable writings should increase. Only then will a new wave be created in the society. She also opined that creative writing will be seen.

In the past, writings upheld the value of society. Writings should come in that direction. She said better literature should be written.

She suggested that the Sahitya Parishat should take the lead in reprinting the book Gowramma of Kodagu.

Writer Kasthuri Govindammaiah said that literature hides the pain of the mind. He said that writing helps in documenting the happenings of the society.

Gowramma of Kodagu has written many stories and poems to highlight the ups and downs of the entire society. He said that the youth should be able to develop a taste, taste and fondness for literature.

It is a matter of happiness that a programme is being organized in the name of Gowramma, who has contributed immensely to the field of literature in Kodagu. The exception that Kodagu has not contributed to the field of literature is decreasing today. He said that it is highly self-evident that women today are not confined within the four walls but also pervade the field of literature.

He advised the students to take full advantage of the opportunity available in the competitive era and move forward.

Speaking as the keynote speaker, Smita Amritraj said that Gowramma’s stories are about questioning, protesting and highlighting the slants of society through literature.

Sreekumar, principal of Saraswathi D.Ed. College, said that the shortcomings of the society can be highlighted through literature. In this regard, he suggested that students should study the work of Gowramma of Kodagu.

Janapada Parishat district president B.G. Ananthasayana said that students should develop literary writing and share it with everyone. Similarly, scientific writings should come, he said.

Lokesh Sagar, president of the District Unit of The Sahitya Parishat, said, 5. Gowramma of Kodagu is the birth anniversary and is being celebrated as Literature Day. The reason why Kodagu has made a name for itself at the national level is the freedom struggle of Gowramma of Kodagu and her love for literature. Keeping this in mind, gowramma’s birth anniversary is being celebrated, he said.

There was talk that Kodagu was lagging behind in literature. However, this problem has been overcome in recent times and the role of women writers in this has been immense, he said. He said that various programmes are being organised through the district unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishat.

Baithadka Janaki Belyappa spoke. The winners of the competition were Sirigowri (1st), Aishwarya (2nd), Vishank (3rd) and Shravani (Consolation Prize).

Kishan Poovaiah, Diwakar, K.S. Ramesh, Sunitha and Muralidhar were present.

source: http://www.vijaykarnataka.in / Vijay Karnataka, Kannada / Home> Kannada News> Kodagu / by Vijay Karnataka / March 06th, 2018

Book On Freedom Fighters Pandyanda Belliappa And Seetha Belliappa Released

Siddapura (Kodagu):

“Soulful Sojourns: A Tale of Two Souls” — an autobiography on the lives of late freedom fighter couple Pandyanda Belliappa and Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa — was released at a programme organised  at Swarnamala Kalyana Mantapa in the town recently.

Speaking after releasing the book, United Kodava Organisation (UKO) President Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa said that Bommanda Savera Chengappa, granddaughter of freedom fighters late Pandyanda Belliappa, who is popularly known as ‘Kodagina Gandhi’ and his freedom fighter wife Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa, has scripted the book in English.

Pointing out that Pandyanda Belliappa, who had great concerns for social welfare, always  worked for the cause of the society, Manju Chinnappa said he is also considered as a pioneer in Co-operative movement in Kodagu. Elaborating on the contributions of the late freedom fighter in education sector, Manju Chinnappa said it was he (Pandyanda Belliappa) who got sanctioned the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College in Madikeri when Nehru was the Prime Minister. Stating that the two freedom fighters had made a mark in different fields, he called upon everyone to read the book in order to draw inspiration for doing social service.

‘Poomale’ newspaper editor Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah in his address, said that the younger generation should read books on such great achievers and draw inspiration from their work and lead a purposeful life.

The book author Bommanda Savera Chengappa said that he scripted the book for posterity to younger generation. Highlighting the achievements of her grandparents, she said that the book makes an interesting reading for everyone and draw inspiration from the freedom fighter couple.

Addanda Vittal Nanjappa, Col. Bommanda Dheeraj Chengappa, Tapas Devaiah, Neravanda Shanti Nanjappa, Kusuma Ayyappa, Pandyanda Vijay Belliappa, Field Marshal K.M.Cariappa Forum President Kandratanda Subbaiah, A. Thammu Poovaiah, Delhi Kodava Samaja President Machimanda Thammu Cariappa, Col. Mandepanda K. Ayyappa and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 24th, 2023