K.R. Vasudev, a Class VII student of Coorg Public School (COPS), Gonikoppal, bagged the first position in Kumite Under 14 Category (60+ kgs) at the CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations) State-level Karate Championship held at the Christ School in Bengaluru recently.
The event saw an impressive turn out of Karate enthusiasts from around 140 ICSE schools in Karnataka showcasing their skills across various weight and age categories.
Vasudev will be representing Karnataka State in the CISCE National-level Karate Competition to be held in Uttar Pradesh in the month of September, 2024.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / July 25th, 2024
The U-17 hockey team of Coorg Public School & PU College (COPS), Gonikoppal, won the CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations) Regional-level Hockey Tournament held at Bengaluru recently by 1-0 against St. Joseph’s European High School.
The lone goal for the winner was scored by M.S. Mayaan Muthanna. The team played against Clarance Public School in the qualifying match and won with an easy score of 6-0. Played semi-finals against Vidyashilp Academy and won by 2-0. The team continued its winning streak and won the finals against St. Joseph European School (1-0).
The stellar performance of the team was seen throughout the tournament and the team will now represent Karnataka in CISCE Nationals which will be held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha in the coming days.
K. Dhanya Subbaiah, President of the School Trust, was also present in the Stadium to inspire the team.
Management, Principal, Staff and students have congratulated K.N. Milan, Physical Director & Coach and also K.C. Biddappa for their best efforts.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / July 25th, 2024
Speaking to the media regarding the NEET irregularities, the minister demanded stringent action against the culprits.
Sharanprakash Rudrappa Patil during the visit to District Hospital and KoIMS. (Photo |Express)
Madikeri :
Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development, Dr Sharan Prakash R. Patil, assured the establishment of a heart examination centre in Kodagu.
During his visit to the Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences (KoIMS) on Friday, he confirmed that the heart examination centre for the district would be announced during the next budget.
“A cardiac care centre under the Public-Private Partnership will be announced in the next budget for the district. Steps will be taken to complete the new hospital building at the District Hospital premises in Madikeri,” the minister confirmed.
He explained that following the efforts of Madikeri MLA Dr Mantar Gowda, an MRI machine has been installed at the District Hospital, and the same will be inaugurated shortly.
He confirmed that Rs 55 crore to Rs 60 crore in funds are required for the completion of the Women and Children Hospital in Madikeri and said, “Steps will be taken to sanction the funds through the finance department. There is a shortage of doctors, and the same will be addressed shortly. Young doctors are keen on working in small districts, and steps will be taken to introduce PG courses in medicine.”
The minister inspected the various ongoing works across the district hospital and observed the functioning of the various units at the centre.
Speaking to the media regarding the NEET irregularities, the minister demanded stringent action against the culprits.
“The government has jeopardized the future of 24 lakh students. The centre has failed to make the examinations transparent. There is absolute transparency when the state conducts the CET examination. The union system has been affected by NEET, and when questioned regarding the same, Rahul Gandhi was insulted by the central government. It is suspected that these irregularities were reported earlier too,” he opined.
He lashed out at the centre, alleging that NEET is the biggest scam of the Modi-led government.
MLA Dr Mantar Gowda, DC Venkat Raja, and others were present during the minister’s visit. The minister also interacted with the KoIMS students and addressed their various problems.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Prajna G R / July 05th, 2024
Nellamakkada Sheela (Kullachanda), wife of N.B. Kaverappa of Bharani Art Gallery, Mysuru and a resident of Vivekananda Nagar here, passed away yesterday afternoon in city. She was 71.
A native of Kavadi village in Ammathi, she leaves behind her husband, one son, one daughter and a host of relatives and friends.
Last rites were held at the foot of Chamundi Hill this noon.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Obituary / July 01st, 2024
Movement of heavy goods vehicles banned in district from July 1 to 30
Madikeri:
Heavy rains over the past few days have flooded the Doni Kadavu area of Benguru village near Cherambane in Madikeri taluk, Kodagu district.
Villages along the Cauvery River, including Nelaji, Kakkabbe, Bhagamandala, Talacauvery and Napoklu, are surrounded by overflowing water. The flooding has cut off road connections between Doni Kadavu and Paisari villages, covering the entire 3 km road with floodwater.
More than 60 families in Parambu Paisari are severely inconvenienced as their surroundings are completely flooded. Residents and schoolchildren are now forced to use motorboats to reach their destinations.
The District Administration has responded by deploying a motorboat from the Forest Department, equipped with life jackets and operated by experienced personnel, to ferry flood-affected villagers.
Bhagamandala Revenue Inspector Shivakumar confirmed that the District Administration has provided a boat following requests from the villagers.
Shaila Rajesh, a resident of Parambu Paisari, mentioned that the Revenue Department has promised to repair the old boat for additional use and urged the construction of a bridge as a permanent solution.
Movement of heavy vehicles banned
In response to landslides and road deterioration caused by heavy rains in Kodagu, the District Administration has imposed a one-month ban on the movement of heavy goods vehicles from July 1 to 30.
Vehicles affected include those with a Registered Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 18,500 Kgs or more, multi-axle vehicles, bullet tankers, ship cargo containers, long chassis vehicles, articulated vehicles and lorries transporting logs and sand.
The ban, enforced under various legal provisions including the Karnataka Police Act, Disaster Management Act, Motor Vehicles Act, and Cr.PC, exempts vehicles transporting LPG cylinders and fuel, milk vans, Government service vehicles, public transport and educational institution vehicles.
Kodagu Police will deploy personnel at entry and exit points like Kushalnagar and Sampaje for enforcement, including round-the-clock mobile patrolling and actions against violators.
Boating to continue at Dubare
The Forest Department has resumed tourist entry to Dubare Elephant Camp following a temporary suspension due to heavy rains. Tourists will now use motor boats to cross the Cauvery River to reach the camp, as the absence of a bridge necessitates this mode of transport.
With the water level receding, boating operations have resumed with the Department providing four motor boats for safe passage to and from the camp, according to an official press release.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 30th, 2024
Rashmika Mandanna is no stranger to creating memorable fashion moments. Over the years, the South Indian star has cultivated a distinct style that sets her apart, effortlessly blending traditional and contemporary fashion. Her wardrobe is filled with everything from elegant lehengas to form-fitting evening wear. However, it’s her love for the simplicity and sophistication of saris that often steals the spotlight. Recently, Mandanna showcased her heritage with pride by donning a cobalt blue silk sari.
She wore this stunning silk sari for her best friend’s wedding in Kodagu, Karnataka. The sari, adorned with gold zari ornamentation, features intricate motifs such as circular butties and stars spread across the rich cobalt fabric, complemented by a statement border. This classic six-yard garment is not just a nod to her Coorgi roots but also a celebration of India’s diverse sari draping styles. Eschewing the Bengali and Gujarati drapes, Mandanna opted for the Coorgi or Kodagu drape, paying stylish homage to her hometown, Virajpet, in the Kodagu district. “Kodagu is where my heart and my history is at,” she expressed in a heartfelt post.
The traditional Coorgi sari drape is characterized by the pallu being neatly tucked over the shoulder, with the pleats tucked backward. According to mythology, this draping style originated from the story of Agasthya’s wife, Cauvery, who transformed into a river to serve the people. In an attempt to stop her, Agasthya pushed the pleats of her sari backward.
This isn’t the first time Mandanna has championed the Coorgi sari. In May 2022, she attended another close friend’s wedding in an olive green Shanti Banaras sari, also draped in the Coorgi style. This tussar georgette sari, bordered with tonal tassels, featured a blend of green and gold needlework, further emphasizing her love for traditional attire.
Later that year, Mandanna chose a glamorous midnight blue Nitika Gujral sari with antique zardozi work, once again embracing the Coorgi draping style. This unique drape not only highlighted her traditional roots but also offered a modern twist, giving the sari the illusion of a one-shoulder dress.
Rashmika Mandanna’s sartorial choices reflect her deep connection to her heritage and her ability to fuse tradition with modern elegance. Her consistent preference for the Coorgi drape showcases a stylish way to honor cultural roots while making a fashion statement. Through her thoughtful fashion selections, Mandanna continues to inspire and set trends, proving that traditional attire can be both timeless and trendy.
source: http://www.msn.com / Microsoft Start / Home> Entertainment / by The Times of India / Story by the TOI Lifestyle Desk / July 01st, 2024
Heavy rains pound Kodagu District; Dubare Elephant Camp shut as River Cauvery swells
Kushalnagar:
The second glass bridge in Kodagu district, installed just four months ago at Nandi Motte in Hebbatageri village on the road to Abbey Falls and Mandalapatti in Madikeri taluk, is now facing a precarious situation.
Following a landslide underneath the bridge on Wednesday night, the three supporting pillars of the bridge have become unstable, exacerbated by heavy rains which further destabilised the hilly terrain.
The first glass skywalk bridge in the district — ‘Pappy’s Bridge of Coorg’ — located at Udoth Motte near Madikeri on Bhagamandala Road, stands 78 feet tall, with a length of about 32 metres and a width of 2 metres.
Acting swiftly on reports of landslides threatening public safety, Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja this morning ordered Madikeri Tahsildar Praveen to immediately inspect the area. Following the Tahsildar’s visit, the DC ordered the gates of the glass bridge to be locked, preventing entry.
Hailed as the tallest glass bridge in South India, this facility also features a skywalk. The bridge stands 270 feet high, 180 feet long and 8 feet wide. It is constructed with 40 mm toughened glass and supported by pillars.
At any given time, over 30 visitors can stand and walk on the bridge, enjoying breathtaking views from 270 feet above the ground. Each visitor is permitted to stay on the bridge for 10 minutes, with a cost of Rs. 300 per person.
The location where the glass bridge stands is reportedly unsuitable for development and has been classified as a landslide-prone area and a Green Belt Zone. During the 2018 landslide, the ground in this area cracked, prompting the Kalakeri Nidugane Gram Panchayat to reject proposals for residential construction and borewell drilling.
Despite these concerns over ground stability, questions are now being raised regarding how permission was granted for the construction of this glass bridge. Area residents alleged that except for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Kalakeri Nidugane Gram Panchayat, no other permissions have been secured to build the bridge. Villagers also have filed a complaint with the Zilla Panchayat CEO.
Residents and concerned citizens have urged the District Administration to immediately review all pertinent documents and take necessary measures to avert any potential disaster. This issue has sparked significant public concern due to its implications for public safety and infrastructure stability in the region.
Pictures show the slanted supporting pillars after the landslide.
Dubare Elephant Camp closed
In response to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of the River Cauvery, leading to a significant rise in water levels, the Dubare Elephant Camp near Nanjarayapatna, Kushalnagar Taluk, on the banks of the River has been closed to visitors. The Forest Department has implemented strict restrictions on entry to ensure the safety of all.
Visitors intending to reach Dubare must cross the swollen River, as there is no bridge available. However, due to the current water levels, boating services have been suspended until the situation improves.
Effective immediately, entry to the Dubare Elephant Camp has been prohibited. The Forest Department has arranged for transportation using four motor boats to ferry visitors across the River and to the camp. This service will resume once conditions permit safe access.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / June 28th, 2024
Dr Geetha Kariappa is a professor of English, with 25+ years of experience, teaching graduate and post-graduate classes at the University of Mangalore and Mysore. Her passion lies in writing. As a full-time author, her 4 published novels and short stories with Kodagu and Kodava culture as the backdrop are the best sellers on Amazon.
Travel makes one modest. You see what tiny place you occupy in the world.
–Gustave Flaubert
Someone famously remarked, see the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories. Ask for no guarantees, ask for no security.
Kodagu or Coorg, often referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’, is the most searched travel destination of the year and secured the 7th position among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations. This recognition is a testimony to the district’s natural beauty, enchanting scenery, gushing waterfalls and virgin forests. It has numerous resorts and homestays and its 7th global ranking places it alongside renowned destinations like Sri Lanka, Goa, Bali, Thailand, Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar, Italy, and Switzerland.
Coorg is immersed in a rich cultural heritage of tradition, hospitality and bravery. The small martial race of around 1.5 lakhs of Kodavas as the indigenous people of Kodagu are called, are a warrior clan known for their extraordinary martial abilities. As an ethnic minority worldwide, their attire reflects their ancestral lineage and culture dictates equality between men and women. Their three main festivals honour their ancestors and weapons; celebrate the bounty of paddy and worship the sacred river, Kaveri. In Coorg, every tradition, every dance, and every festival confirms their spirit of resilience.
Nestled amongst the Western Ghats, Coorg is well-known for its lush coffee plantations, verdant woodlands, rolling hills and unexplored terrains. It is a land of mystic and quaint gateways into mind and body relaxation.
Today, I touch upon hidden gems of natural beauty spots that can be charming tourist destinations for tourists willing to explore beyond the winding pathways, fruit orchards, quaint hills and river isles. Let’s uncover 5 unexplored gems that brand them the authentic Coorg.
Kabbe Biological Park sitting atop the pristine dense jungle of Kabbe Hills, situated 45 kms from Madikeri, the largest town of Coorg District, offers safari trips. You can soak in the echoes of birdsongs amidst tall bamboo strips, and sight spotted deer, gaurs and wary leopards. This little-known bio reserve forest makes an ideal nature watch for families beyond crowded reserves.
2. The hidden twin Waterfalls of Mallali near Somwarpet is another surreal delight as visitors come upon it surrounded by the verdant wilderness of lush forests. One can easily lose themselves in the tranquil spectacle as foamy currents of water swirl around the massive rocks in perfect symphony. You will be in sync with nature if you want to sit and meditate on the rocks.
3. The splendid Chelavara Falls located merely 20 kilometres uphill from Madikeri township brings one closer again to vibrant natural forces untouched by traveller footprints. As we ride uphill, maybe in a car or jeep, we encounter kingfishers and hear the distant boom of the waterfall. The majesty of a great swathe of white foamy waterfall hurtling down from lofty cliffs into an emerald jewel of a pool is a sight to behold. Early morning visits are an ideal time to connect with nature.
4. The Irpu falls within the sacred forests beside the Lakshmana Tirtha River near Kurchi village is a dreamlike place. It unites picturesque nature with eternal legend as Lord Lakshmana is supposed to have performed atonement here revealing the Irpu Falls. The visitors feel spiritually connected through worship and adoration that has spanned centuries. There arises a mystic aura surrounding the place.
5. The Chomakund Mountain trekking trail, located 45 kms from Madikeri township is another fresh discovery. It straddles the Western Ghats reaching 5500 feet for seasoned trekkers. It’s a concentrated 6-hour climb, and you may sight kingfishers or wild Gaurs. The comprehensive 360-degree scenery showcases rolling grasslands and the whole district unfolds before you. It’s like a new exploration beyond the scripted holiday.
Besides the coffee plantations, you may explore fragrant spice gardens of cardamom, pepper, and vanilla grown alongside coffee in estates in and around Madikeri. You will get a firsthand look at the entire process of coffee, from growth to roasting. It is practical to go on ‘Guided Tours’ where you can explore the greenery, and coffee shrubs, learn about different crops, and witness the fascinating coffee-roasting process.
Visit the ‘World Coffee Museum’, in ‘Mercara Gold Estate’ which showcases the journey of coffee, from its birth to the present day; both chronologically and geographically. After the tour, savour a cup of estate-fresh filter coffee.
Don’t forget to enjoy the taste of spices incorporated into the Coorgi cuisine in Coorg’s offbeat, charming ‘Homestays’ in secluded places amidst fruit orchards or rolling hills. Discover the slow simmering of culinary contents in earthen pots over family hearths to spread warmth into your heart. Sit out around the slow-burning bonfire listening to the cicadas sing into the starry night.
These experiences in charming hideaways offer glimpses into local life, authentic Kodava cuisine, and touching conversations with hosts, immersing you in the true spirit of Coorg. Enjoy your stay and come back again. As Roy M. Goodman states, ‘Happiness is a way of travel, not a destination. With age comes wisdom, with travel comes understanding.’
source: http://www.interviewtimes.net / Interview Times / Home> National> Trending / by Dr. Geetha Kariappa / June 23rd, 2024
Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah took charge as the new Chairman of Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy at Madikeri on Saturday.
The Academy Registrar Ajjikuttira Girish handed over the Order letter to the new Chairman at the Academy Office here. Soon after he took charge, Nachaiah was greeted by the Academy’s past President Biddatanda S. Thammaiah, Ammatanda Parvati Appaiah, Bacharaniyanda Appanna, Kodagu Janapada Parishat District President B.G. Ananthashayana and others.
Speaking on the occasion, Nachaiah said that he would call a meeting soon after the appointment of members to the Academy and chalk out the future programmes of the Academy. He also said that the co-operation of everyone is needed for taking the Academy to greater heights.
Academy Registrar Girish gave a brief on the objectives and plans of the Academy.
Former Kodagu Zilla Panchayat (ZP) Standing Committee Chairman Maneyapanda Kanti Satish, Kushalnagar Kodava Samaja President Mandepanda Bose Monnappa, Kiggatnad Senior Citizens Forum Founder Katimada Jimmi Annaiah, Dikki Annaiah, Paruvangada Sunny Monnappa, Kenjangada Roshan Nanaiah, Hanchettira Manu Muddappa, Chenanda Girish Poonachha, Someyanda Bose Belliappa, Moovera Rekha Prakash, Ammanichanda Eshwari Gangamma, Machimanda Meena Vasanth, Bacharaniyanda Ranu Appanna and elderly personalities Lakshminarayan, Karnanda Bollamma Nanaiah, Aacheyada Gagan, Baleyada Pratish, Kodagu Janapada Parishat member Ambekallu Kushalappa, Sampath Kumar and others were present during the occasion.
Earlier, Mahesh Nachaiah was brought in a grand procession to the venue, with artistes of Mukkodlu Valley Dew team rendering Battepaat. Chamera Dinesh Belliappa tied the ‘Okkane’ and prayed for the success of the programmes and activities of the Academy.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 16th, 2024
Charishma Kaliyanda, NSW MP for Liverpool, interviews her mother Bhanu Chottera, a former Indian Government architectural draughtsperson.
Our Mother’s Day series ‘My Mum in her own words’ pays tribute to our mothers, showcasing the intergenerational bond between mother and child. Here Charishma Kaliyanda, NSW MP for Liverpool, sits down with her mother Bhanu Chottera, a former Indian Government architectural draughtsperson.
Charishma Kaliyanda: What are your strongest memories of your mum?
Bhanu Chottera: My mum, known as ‘Baby’ to all, was the example of someone who gave unconditional love, she treated all her 5 children equally – no difference between boys or girls. You could never tell when she was unhappy or concerned, she was always bubbly and charming.
She always had the answers to our problems – and never refused when any of us asked for help.
Charishma Kaliyanda: She sounds a lot like you, actually! So what’s something your mum or dad used to tell you growing up that later turned out to be true?
Bhanu Chottera: They always encouraged me to study and stand on my own feet, regardless of being a girl. Education is the one thing nobody can snatch away from you and will make sure you can put food on the table. Dad always said, regardless of the situation, don’t hide away from your problems and don’t be afraid to speak out.
Charishma with her mother and grandmother (Source: Supplied)
Charishma Kaliyanda: How about Ammachi, what is the best advice your mum ever gave you?
Bhanu Chottera: Always be financially independent, and make sure you save some money as you never know when you’ll come across a rainy day when you need it!
Charishma Kaliyanda: That is definitely practical advice that we can all use. Tell me about the day I was born.
Bhanu Chottera: I felt blessed – but it was a lot of effort, because I was in labour for almost 22 hours with you!
I was so happy because I always wanted a girl. I grew up with two sisters so, in having a daughter, I knew I would always have someone to talk to, share experiences and develop a lifelong bond with.
The entire extended family was so pleased because my sister is the eldest and she was a role model for everyone else. You were also the first female grandchild on both sides of the family, and so your Thatha called you our ‘Lakshmi’.
Charishma Kaliyanda: That’s really cute, I didn’t know that. Tell me about the world events that have had the most impact on you?
Bhanu Chottera: The first event was the 2004 Tsunami in the Indian Ocean. I had never heard the word tsunami before and didn’t know what it was until I saw the devastation created that day – so many people died, there was so much destruction and across such a large area. It made me realise that things can change in the blink of an eye, anything can happen and life is short, precious and unpredictable. It made me really think about what I wanted from my life.
The other is COVID, of course. The whole period had a huge impact on me and reinforced that nothing belongs to you, so share what you have and show care to the people around you as much as you can.
Charishma Kaliyanda: Keeping those lessons in mind, what would you say are the best decisions you made in your life?
Bhanu Chottera: The first was keeping in mind my parents’ advice and getting an education because I got my dream job working for the Indian Government’s housing department as an architectural draughtsperson. I loved my work and my lifestyle and I made some amazing friends that I am still close with today.
The second was buying a home. After coming to Australia, starting a new life from scratch here, having a home of my own was a sign that I had some roots and could stand on my feet. It made me feel like I had achieved progress and independence, and I could nurture my family (and my own garden!).
Mum on the campaign trail (Source: Supplied)
Charishma Kaliyanda: Speaking of gardens, that’s probably the biggest difference between us, you’re in your element surrounded by roses, mulch and manure and you still won’t let me forget how I accidentally killed your choko vine when I was 14! How did you feel when I told you I wanted to get into politics?
Bhanu Chottera: It was actually a shock. Coming from a different cultural background, I thought you might find it difficult to be accepted. I also saw the demands of working in politics in the media and thought it would be really challenging. At the same time, I remembered the advice I had gained from my dad, who served in the army for many years and had even fought in a World War and knew I should pass it onto my daughter. You come from a long line of fighters, so I knew you would be alright.
Charishma Kaliyanda: So how did you feel on election night when results came in that I had won? What went through your mind?
Bhanu Chottera: Which election? There have been a few!
Charishma Kaliyanda: Look, that’s a fair call.
Bhanu Chottera: The first one was a bit disappointing but I remember clearly thinking “there’s always next time, this is only the beginning”. We’ve been on a long journey, with 6 election nights in total! On election night last year though, I thought, “this is the right time”. I have seen you develop the skills and temperament to balance things and to be able to make the impact you want to on the things you are passionate about.
With mum on election night as results came in (Source: Supplied)
Charishma Kaliyanda: How about on the day I was sworn in at Parliament ?
Bhanu Chottera: That was one of the most exciting and memorable days of my life. I felt my daughter had achieved something I never thought possible. When we became Australian citizens, I remember we had the ceremony at the Liverpool Council chambers and when you were sworn in as the youngest councillor at Liverpool Council in 2016, I was blown away. To see you become a member of the NSW Parliament was a real validation of our decision to seek a new life in Australia because we wanted better opportunities for our children. You made us proud, and all the challenges and sacrifices worth it.
Charishma Kaliyanda: What do you worry about most now, regarding me?
Bhanu Chottera: Look, like every parent I always worry about your health, happiness and safety. I know the hours you work and the travel you do, as well as the stress and responsibility you take on. So I try and encourage you to maintain a healthy work/life balance.
Charishma Kaliyanda: If by encourage, you mean, nag with great affection, you’re spot on! So what about your own self, what are you looking forward to?
Bhanu Chottera: I want to stay healthy as possible so I can travel, starting with Cambodia! I try and eat well, meditate, exercise and stay connected with my friends. I really enjoy being involved with charities and community work because I like helping people and I know that people have been there to support me when I needed it, so I pay it forward.
Charishma Kaliyanda: What the one lesson you want me to take forward?
Bhanu Chottera: Always listen to people, but believe in yourself and act according to what your heart is telling you.
source: http://www.indianlink.com.au / Indian Link / Home> India in Australia / by Indian Link / May 09th, 2024
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