Category Archives: Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg

Son Of Kodagu Leaves His Footprint On Snow-Clad Mountains -1

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K.B. Appachu remembers his days when he surveyed Indo-China border at the time of Chinese aggression in 1961

While it is common for Kodagu youth to join the Armed Forces and dedicate their lives for their Nation, ready to make the supreme sacrifice, there are some sons of the soil who have earned name and fame through their service in the Survey Department. One such hero is Kalyatanda B. Appachu, son of late Kalyatanda A. Belliappa. Born on 24.6.1935 in Virajpet town, Kodagu District — when it was a ‘C’ State — Appachu retired as Superintending Surveyor, Survey of India, after a long, challenging and fruitful innings.

In this interview to Star of Mysore, he shares his experiences in the Indo-China border at a time when India had to face Chinese aggression and lose many precious lives due to the wrong policies of our then leaders. Excerpts.

K.B. Appachu

Star of Mysore (SOM): I have heard that during your time, it was natural for many youths from Kodagu to join the Armed Forces and yet you seem to have preferred the Survey Department.

K.B. Appachu:  Yes. That was the time when Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa and General K.S. Thimmayya were serving the country. As a Kodagu youth, I too had a desire to join the army and become an officer. During my school days, I had joined the Scouts and Guides and NCC and when I was studying in Madikeri Government College (now Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College), I had passed ‘A’, ‘B’ Certificate examinations. I could not take up ‘C’ Certificate examinations as there was no exam centre in Madikeri then in 1957 and due to financial constraints I could not go to Madras. But I am happy that I joined the Survey Department in 1959 that provided me an opportunity to serve my motherland.

SOM: Why do you say so?

Appachu: Identifying the route for National and State Highways, surveying and marking the land for railway lines to pass, surveying India’s borders and enabling the Armed Forces to protect them and by identifying enemy territories – all these were part of my job and I am proud to say that I have served the Nation.

SOM: A soldier’s life is very risky. Does it mean the same for a surveyor?

Appachu:  Yes. We too have to risk our lives during the course of our profession. From February 1959 to 1961, I underwent training in surveying for 2 years in Dehra Dun, Hathibarkala Estate. I had practical Topographical Survey Training in Rajpur, Mussoorie.

One ‘Do or Die’ incident I remember during my training. At the end of the training, we were to do a final ‘Survey Scheme’ independently for which I was given a survey scheme in Herbertpur, UP. I took my equipment and went up the hill station for observation in Shivalik ranges. The approach to the hill station was along a slope but I took a short-cut route along a cliff.

The squad could not follow me but I started climbing along the cliff without my shoes. It was only four feet to the top and I stood there with the support of a small protruding stone and I also held a root of a plant. However, I realised that I could neither climb up nor get down from this position and I was hanging precariously. People by the side of the road were watching and shouting.

At that moment I just remembered my parents whose photo was inside my haversack. I felt that I was destined to roll down the cliff and embrace death.  I prayed and closed my eyes. Suddenly I heard some voices from the top and I believe that they were like divine intervention. I remember that they said, in Hindi, “Officer what happened? Don’t fear. We will save you”.

Another batch of survey squad had come there for observation. They saw my plight and used signal poles and asked me to hold them tight. I followed their instructions and they were able to pull me up inch-by-inch to the top and saved my life. I thanked God for giving me a new lease of life. The report I had submitted about the survey work was considered one of the best reports. I was later deputed to NEFA (North-East Frontier Agency), now Arunachal Pradesh on the Indo-China border.

Local tribals – Tagins of Subansiri Frontier Division-NEFA.

SOM: Did you encounter any life-threatening situation in NEFA?

Appachu: When I was in NEFA (1961-62) there was tension between India and China. India had declared the McMahon Line as the International border between India and China. This was not acceptable to Chinese who considered NEFA as Aksai-Chin and claimed it as their own. In this difficult situation, we had to carry out the survey amidst Chinese threat. Moreover, there was no earlier map that could give us a model or some direction. It was a daunting task. My area of work was in Subansiri Frontier Division in NEFA. I collected documents and equipment and proceeded for field work. I left Shillong headquarters to Jorhat by truck. From Jorhat, we were air-lifted by Kalinga Airlines to Daporijo in Subansiri Frontier Division.

My area of work was to March for 12 days from the base camp Daporijo and my squad comprised 50 Nepali porters, 12 Bhihari Khalasis (peons) from Survey of India, three escorts from Assam Rifles and one local Tribal interpreter. We collected the rations and after marching for 12 days, we reached the area of work. One batch of 12 porters used to be with me and the other batches used to bring rations from the base camp to our subsidiary camps. As we moved further with our survey work, we had 2-3 zones where Dakota planes from Kalinga Airlines used to drop bags of rice, dal, oil tins, onions, potatoes. Parachutes were used to drop supplies like oil tins and goat (for meat).

SOM: Tell us more about the terrain, nature of work and risky situations.

Appachu: The terrain was steep and was 10,000 ft above the sea level, covered with snow. Our nature of work was to establish survey stations on hill tops. Once in a month we used to get only two to three days of clear blue sky. But sometimes as the sun rose, clouds used to form and settle on the mountain top itself, preventing us from carrying out observations even on a clear day.

Another risky situation was crossing the rivers. We had to use only the cane-suspended hanging bridges that were unsystematically laid down with wooden pieces. While crossing, if you look at the flowing water you feel as if your bridge is flowing in the opposite direction – due to relative motion – as fast as the river flowed.

I camped for a month on top of one hill waiting for a clear day. Mostly I used to be with books and as I was not talking much, my tongue grew thick and I could not talk properly. When you handle the theodolite instrument to survey, you used to get an acute pain in the hand due to freezing temperatures and you cannot fold your fingers.

Porters erect signal for observation.

In such situations I used hot-water bags to keep my fingers warm. In the evening, after food, Nepali porters used to sing songs and the water-carrying drums doubled up as music instruments. This field season of 1961-62 was quite successful and I was in the field for about eight months eating the same air-dropped ration and staying in Arctic tents and enjoying the company of Nepali porters.

To reach the top of the mountain, we used to pass through interior areas where we came across primitive tribes (Tagins). We used to talk to them with the help of an interpreter. In each outpost, men from Assam Rifles, CRPF and Army were posted and they had the task of collecting secret information and pass it on to their respective headquarters. Whenever we returned from the hill top and reached the outpost we were treated as VVIPs just to gather information from us on the latest developments in the area and about Chinese spy groups4

The NCC and Scouts and Guides training which I obtained during my school and college days was very useful to be a leader. Porters used to carry about 30 kg load on their back and used to walk with me. After the survey work, I returned safely to Shillong. Glad to say that I was given Honorarium from the Survey Department. I could enjoy tough field work only because I took up challenge in each step.

[To be continued tomorrow]

PART 2

Son Of Kodagu Leaves His Footprint On Snow-Clad Mountains -2

While it is common for Kodagu youth to join the Armed Forces and dedicate their lives for their Nation, ready to make the supreme sacrifice, there are some sons of the soil who have earned name and fame through their service in the Survey Department. One such hero is Kalyatanda B.  Appachu, son of late Kalyatanda A. Belliappa. Born on 24.6.1935 in Virajpet town, Kodagu District — when it was a ‘C’ State — Appachu retired as Superintending Surveyor, Survey of India, after a long, challenging and fruitful innings.

In this interview to Star of Mysore, he shares his experiences in the Indo-China border at a time when India had to face Chinese aggression and lose many precious lives due to the wrong policies of our then leaders. Excerpts.

SOM: Did you face a situation when you had to stay hungry but still work?

Appachu: At NEFA, there was heavy snowfall and the weather was bad, cloudy and raining. As such there was no airdrop of rations for 2-3 months. For survival, I had to approach CRPF and Army units and borrow food. Meanwhile there was Chinese aggression from Longju side. Immediately we started retreating and reached our base camp at Daporijo after 16 days of marching. At night, we used to hear gunshots and early in the morning, the moment we could see footpaths, we used to start marching. Once at Daporijo, people had gathered from all the other outposts for evacuation by air-lifting. The same night, there was a wireless message that Chinese troops will be surrounding Daporijo any moment. All the ladies, children of officials started crying. The Kalinga Dakota aircraft meant for Survey of India personnel landed at Daporijo. Officers approached me and requested me to evacuate ladies, children and aged persons in the sortie meant for us. On seeing their plight, I obliged.

Later I got a message from our headquarters asking me to immediately destroy all the survey records etc. including cash and prevent Chinese from laying their hands on them. I had Rs. 40,000 cash in my trunk and I did not want to burn it. I went inside my tent, packed the bundle of notes in a leather bag, and wrapped it in a blanket and put it in my haversack. With my parent’s photo and a few glucose packets, I started off marching towards Jorhat, which took 10 days.

There was nothing to eat. On the way there were a number of burnt down Tusker unit camps. (Tusker units are deployed to make roads in hilly areas). We searched and could get tinned fruit or potatoes. During night I used to have the money bag as my pillow. If anyone had a clue that I was carrying so much money, they would have murdered me for it. The last two days I went to villages and begged for food. Immediately after reaching the base camp at Jorhat, I handed over the  Rs. 40,000 to my superior officer (Col. S.R. Kishore).  I am proud of this act.

SOM: What actually triggered Chinese aggression

Appachu: We had started off our technical work. From tribals and local officials we came to know that India under the Prime Ministership of Jawaharlal Nehru and V.K. Krishna Menon as Defence Minister (with the ill advice of Mallik) had opened a number of outposts along the McMahon Line in 1961, keeping some soldiers in each outpost. This irritated the Chinese their soldiers simply walked inside our area with Tibetans as guides since they knew the route to NEFA. In the encounter most of the Tibetans died. Gelansiniyak, where I used to camp, was the place the Chinese camped too. And wherever I had chiselled ‘SURVEY OF INDIA’ on the bark of trees, they wrote something in Chinese language. I feel that it was a wrong decision on the part of Jawaharlal Nehru and we lost many soldiers.

One more incident worth mentioning is that seven of us went to a mountain top north of Taksing in Namkachu Valley. It took us two days to reach the top. I set up my theodolite instrument and started observing the Chinese area and I could find a little bit of smoke and could see Chinese soldiers moving around. I showed it to my men and I made them stand in a line and shouted “Bolo Bharat Mathaaki Jai” and run down the mountain. By evening we reached an outpost and narrated the incident to our Government officials. In turn, they flashed the message to New Delhi and at 8 pm news, we heard that ‘Chinese Soldiers were sighted in Namkachu Valley’. I worked for about 8 months in Subansiri Frontier Division successfully. Later on for all the sincere and hardwork, I was awarded a Commendation Certificate by the Governor of Assam.

A tribal woman from the hill station at NEFA.

SOM: What other incidents come to your mind at NEFA?

Appachu: A lot of virgin area near the McMahon Line was unexplored. As such, it was planned to carry out exploratory survey to the north of Anini outpost.  Seven technical hands were selected and our officer in-charge Major L.P. Sharma was our team leader. We reached Jorhat and were waiting for the airlift and at that point, Major L.P. Sharma received a message that he was promoted and had to join duty immediately.

He left and Capt. Prithviraj was made the team leader. We collected our squad, ration, etc., and after seven days of marching, we established our base camp at Bruni. We were preparing to start exploratory survey and Capt. Prithviraj received a message saying that he was promoted as a Major and he was asked to report immediately in Shillong.  He left and I became the team leader.

I wanted to establish a survey station at an altitude of about16,000 feet. With the help of aerial photographs, I studied the area and with my team scaled the mountains. In some places we used rope climbing also and by evening we reached a small lake and we camped there itself.  My Arctic tent was set on a flat boulder.  The entire area was full of boulders. The next day 3-4 men and I went to the peak to set our signal (pole and cross) and instrument. It started snowing heavily. So we left the instrument on top and came down to the camp. At night after dinner, I went inside the sleeping bag and porters were sitting by the side of fire. We heard a gunshot and a loud cry of a porter (Angphuri Sherpa). My cook and escort were cleaning the rifle and by mistake one of them pressed the trigger and the bullet pierced through the porter’s stomach and the bullet went out from back.  He was shouting and crying due to pain.  I tried to console him by saying that he would be airlifted the next day. But at night his brother gave him some water and he died.

Next morning on the other side of the lake, we removed a few small boulders and buried him by covering the body with small boulders and performed the last rites.  The snowfall continued.  I pursued 2-3 best porters to climb up to bring the instrument back from the top. I was reading the abridged Bhagavad Gita for their safe return. They returned safe but snowfall continued and the entire area was covered with snow.  There was no ration even as the ration squad could not reach us.

We made a bed by spreading small stones and pebbles and spread grass on top of them and spread the blanket for all of us to sleep. I was putting my hand into a small hot spring throughout the night.  We had nothing to eat but took one or two pieces of Muskdeer fried meat and two tea-spoons of glucose each.  The next day our Nepali porters with their ‘Kokari’ (bill hook) tried to cut down pine trees and make it fall across the stream. It was a failure a couple of times, but one tree fell across the stream and got struck between two boulders and it was shaky due to the water flow.  It was a ‘Do or Die’ situation

Training in plane – Tabling in foot-hills area in NEFA

As a last resort, we crossed the stream one by one walking over the wobbly log. We walked along a small valley and reached a point from where we could not walk due to darkness.  We sat with a blanket by the side of a big boulder and somehow spent the night.  Due to severe hunger, I was getting stomach and spinal cord pain. In the morning, I could not stand up due to stiff knees.  Immediately, 3-4 good porters encouraged me by saying that I would be lifted to base camp. It was bad luck that our search party with ration could not reach us again.  They later came to us and started preparing rice. Two porters massaged my knees continuously for one hour with mustard oil.  I could stand up slowly.  The rice was cooked and we ate it with some mustard oil. It was so tasty and it was like Godly food. It usually takes two hours for us to reach our base camp but it took six hours for us as I could walk very slowly.

[To be continued tomorrow]

PART – 3

Son Of Kodagu Leaves His Footprint On Snow-Clad Mountains -3

While it is common for Kodagu youth to join the Armed Forces and dedicate their lives for their Nation, ready to make the supreme sacrifice, there are some sons of the soil who have earned name and fame through their service in the Survey Department. One such hero is Kalyatanda B. Appachu, son of late Kalyatanda A. Belliappa. Born on 24.6.1935 in Virajpet town, Kodagu District — when it was a ‘C’ State — Appachu retired as Superintending Surveyor, Survey of India, after a long, challenging and fruitful innings.

In this interview to Star of Mysore, he shares his experiences in the Indo-China border at a time when India had to face Chinese aggression and lose many precious lives due to the wrong policies of our then leaders. Excerpts.

SOM: Any bitter experience that haunts you?

Appachu: At the base camp, we took rest for 3 days. After some time we found that one porter was missing. In order to bring instruments we had left behind as well as to search that missing porter, we began tracking back again and on reaching the spot where we had crossed the stream, we could see some footprints deviated towards a small cave. We went there and could find the missing porter lying inside the cave. He was dead.  All of us passed mud to cover the body.  Then we went to the previous camp where we had left the instruments, collected them and returned to our base camp.

Meanwhile another team which had gone to other peak started returning. On their way, they were thrown down by an avalanche and all escaped except for one peon Rameshwar. He was carrying the instrument on  his back and was buried deep in snow due to weight.  Our search party could not find him but next the summer, an Assam Rifles search party could find his dead body and performed the last rites. After this bitter experience of exploratory survey, all of us returned to the party headquarters in Shillong.

SOM: Any incident you still regret?

Appachu: In 1966-67 Sultan Batheri (Karnataka-Kerala border), I was asked to carry out Model Control work for photogrammetric work for the Defence Department around Ooty area. Before proceeding for field work, when I was in the party HQ in Bangalore, I got an intimation from Survey General’s Office, Dehra Dun that I had been awarded Silver Medal by the Governor of Assam for meritorious service in NEFA. It was communicated to me orally by my Officer In-charge.  I was asked to go to Shillong to receive the award on Republic Day in 1967 from the Governor of Assam. I was very keen to go but my Officer In-charge told me that they cannot send me as I was doing a top priority work for Defence. No matter how much I pleaded, the final reply was ‘No’.

I still regret that I could not receive the award in person. However, the medal and the citation were sent to me later.

SOM: How was the survey work at Sultan Batheri? Any incident you want to recall?

Appachu: One day we were to go to the top of a hill in an area that was infested by wild elephants. I took one of the mahouts from the camp as he knew how to scare elephants. On the way he sensed the presence of elephants as we could see freshly cut plants. As we neared an uneven area, suddenly one wild elephant ran towards us trumpeting and kicking up dust. I wanted to follow the mahout but he suddenly, like a monkey, climbed a tree and I saw the elephant approaching me. I started running fast but from the opposite direction I saw three more elephants running towards me. I lost my senses and when I regained composure, I found I had climbed a tree.  Due to reflex action, I had run about 10-12 meters inside the forest and climbed up a tree.

This incident happened at about 9am and by about 11am there were about 3-4 elephants gathered at the spot. It was a mother elephant with her baby and mother elephants are normally more ferocious than a rouge elephant. By about 1 pm due to hot sun, the elephants walked away. All the people who had climbed trees got down. Thank God, all were safe.

Cautiously we collected the equipment and returned to our camp.  We were in no mood to eat or even to talk.  I informed my officer about the incident and after two days he came down to Ooty and conducted an enquiry. He said I should have taken more precautions by taking Police escort to the area of work. I told him that it was not possible to go to Police station daily as it was far away. Then I told him that I was not scared of elephants and if he sends me the blueprint of the area I would complete the work. He went back to Bangalore and sent the blue print and equipment.  I worked hard for two months and completed the assignment successfully despite encountering wild elephants twice.

A human chain on ice slate lake to save oneself if the ice cracks due to weight

What is McMahon Line?

McMahon Line is a line proposed by McMahon in the Simla Accord which was considered invalid by both Tibetans and Chinese government. It is the effective boundary between China and India although its legal status is disputed by the Chinese.

The line is named after Sir Henry McMahon, foreign secretary of the British-run Government of India and the chief negotiator of the convention at Simla. It extends for 550 miles (890 km) from Bhutan in the west to 160 miles (260 km) east of the great bend of the Brahmaputra River in the east, largely along the crest of the Himalayas. Simla (along with the McMahon Line) was initially rejected by the Government of India as incompatible with the 1907 Anglo-Russian Convention. This convention was denounced in 1921. After Simla, the McMahon Line was forgotten until 1935, when British civil service officer Olaf Caroe convinced the government to publish the Simla Convention and use the McMahon Line on official maps.

The McMahon Line is regarded by India as the legal national border. It is disputed by China. As recently as 2003, the Dalai Lama said that the disputed region was part of Tibet, in 2008, he said that “Arunachal Pradesh was a part of India under the agreement signed by Tibetan and British representatives.”

Rice with elephant urine !

Early in 1965, the Survey Department had recruited a few trainees and I was given the responsibility of training them in all aspects of  topographical survey. In the field, I was designated as the Camp Officer and we established our camp at Changlang in the foothills of NEFA.

One incident comes to my mind here. At the base of the hill top, we had pitched the tent just to spend the night. Our people took water from a ditch and cooked rice and my cook served it to me. The moment I put it into my mouth, I had widespread burning sensation and I vomited the rice. I washed my mouth with bottled water and slept off. At night an elephant had passed by the side of our tent but caused us no harm. The next day morning when we checked the so called water in the ditch, we found that it was actually elephant’s urine! And without realising it, the cook had prepared rice out of it.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

  • Honorarium received from Survey of India.
  • Commendation Certificate received from the Governor of Assam for meritorious service in NEFA (North East Frontier Agency), now Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Silver Medal received from the Governor of Assam for meritorious service for 5 years in NEFA.
  • Appreciation letter from the Government of India, Ministry of External Affairs in recognition of meritorious services in the Indo-Pakistan boundary demarcation in Kutch in Gujarat.
  • A memento – Gold-coated replica of Pashupathinath Temple was presented by trainees and staff of Survey Training Centre, Kathmandu,Nepal.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the association of Engineering and Surveying Consultants for exceptional contribution in the field of surveying.

[Concluded]

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by K.B. Appachu / May 04th, 05th and 06th, 2017 / in 3 Parts

A Grand-Daughter’s Tribute To Her Thatha On Teachers’ Day

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Remembering an extraordinary teacher of Kodagu, Devanira K. Appayya.

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” — Henry Brooks Adams, Historian.

In 1909, under the Imperialist Empire of Edward VII, an illustrious son was born in Napoklu, Kodagu, who would later be known for his colossal contribution to education. Little did Dr. Devanira Kunjappa know that this son, Devanira K. Appayya would one day be the recipient of India’s highest medal of honour bestowed on a citizen for teaching excellence.

By the age of 20, in 1929, Devanira Appayya or Appayya Master, as he was lovingly called, put himself through various schools in Kodagu and then went on to graduate from the prestigious Madras Presidency College, an almost unheard of feat at that time.

Presidency College was one of the oldest and the most prestigious institutions in India, boasting of an envious line of alumna including a Nobel Laureate C.V. Raman, freedom fighter C. Rajagopalachari and philosopher Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, who later became the President of India.

Granny would regale us with stories of how Thatha, as we grand kids called him, got to Madras, now Chennai. “He walked, rode bullock carts, took multiple buses and then a train,” she said. It had apparently taken him weeks to travel from Coorg to Chennai, a distance covered in a few hours today.

Financial constraints prevented him from pursuing a higher education, at which point, he returned and joined the Secondary Grade Teachers Training College in Bangalore. This was the start of his memorable teaching career.

Thatha was a born teacher and taught with a sense of compassion and empathy. He held the Head Master’s job at Ammathi Middle School for over 22 years. Known for his impeccable British sense of style, sans the stiff upper lip, one would never find him in soiled clothes (from having spent his evenings picking coffee in his estate) or unpolished shoes.

He stood tall, towering over his colleagues, at 6’0”, but Thatha was modest at heart. It was said that he was a treat to watch as an eloquent speaker. He was also the only Head Master from the State to be selected as a member of the State Prescription Textbook Committee.

In 1962, Government of India presented Devanira Appayya, aged 53, with the prestigious National President’s Award for Teaching Excellence. An honour bestowed by the then President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, also a fellow alumnus of Madras Presidency College.

Never had a Kodava walked the history-laden, post-British Raj corridors of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, dressed in the traditional Kodava attire of Kupya (black collarless, short-sleeved, knee length coat) with the ceremonial Mande Thuni (head gear) and Chale (maroon gold-embroidered silk waist belt), striking quite the intellectual, handsome figure.

Devanira K. Appayya with wife Dharani.

To be awarded this highest recognition was a matter of huge prestige, not just for him, but for the then small State of Kodagu and even smaller community of Kodavas. We were no longer tucked away in a silo of the Western Ghat. He had thus put the tiny State of Kodagu on the National stage.

The State of Mysore, considering his accomplishment as a teacher, extended his retirement by three years. “We pray to God to spare you for a full span of Vedic life and let God Almighty be with you and your family to enjoy your well-earned rest at Ammathi,” wrote the Siddapur Teachers’ Association on the day of his retirement on May 18, 1967.

Thatha died eleven years later at the age of 70. For his family, he was and is a larger-than-life figure, a trailblazer, a legend who touched the hearts of many and left a legacy which gets talked about even to this day.

Appayya Master was known for his unwavering dedication to his family and his craft serving as an inspiration. His ability to impart knowledge while being  compassionate will be remembered for generations to come.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by Pallavi Joyappa, USA / September 05th, 2023

Athur Village in Coorg : A Mini Nursery of Kodava Writers in English

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A land known as the nursery of Indian Hockey, Kodagu (Coorg) in Karnataka State has been a cradle for sports and Army.

However, located down south of Kodagu, Athur village near Gonikoppal town has been a mini nursery for writers! The village is home to four popular writers in English – C.P Belliappa and his sister, Kaveri Nambisan, P.T. Bopanna and his son Devaiah Bopanna.


It does look like Athur village has given birth to these Kodavas with a talent to be ‘pen-tastic’ not just at an amateur level, but at a professional one.


Growing up, I listened to stories of Princess Victoria Gowramma and Narimangala. My childhood days spun into a web of stories from different Kodava writers narrated to me by my mother. Sometimes, with a tale of a tiger’s tail by C.P. Belliappa.


As a teenager, I pondered over P.T Bopanna’s question, “Are Kodavas Hindus?” and sneaked a laugh at (AIB) All India Bakchod’s comic stories whose head writer was Devaiah Bopanna.


Chepudira P. Belliappa or popularly called as C.P Belliappa pursued a career in engineering. However, settling down in Coorg as a planter, he has been promoting technical education in Coorg. He has also penned many articles and is famous for his books, “Victoria Gowramma: The Lost Princess of Coorg”, “Nuggets from Coorg History”, “Tale of a Tiger’s Tail and other Yarns from Coorg.”

His sister, Kaveri Nambisan has a unique style of writing. Her popular books like “The Scent of Pepper” can take you on a ride to Scotland of India, Kodagu with vibes of ethnicity. Her other books like “Mango-Coloured Fish” and “The Hills of Angheri” showcase stories derived from personal experiences. She is a doctor by profession. Kaveri started off as a writer for children’s magazines. She was recognized as the Coorg Person of the Year in 2005.


A leading author and a journalist, Palanganda T. Bopanna has been writing books about Kodavas and Kodagu. He has promoted several websites, including coorgnews.in, dedicated to Kodagu news. Bopanna is a recipient of the Gourmand international award for his book ‘The Romance of Indian Coffee.’


His son, Devaiah Bopanna, has co-founded a media company called ‘All Things Small’ which concentrates on writing true stories by giving a unique, modern touch to journalism. A Mumbai-based writer, Devaiah adds a tinge of comical approach to his writings.

These writers have touched many hearts with their writings. The root to their writing stems from Athur village and it is my dear hope that more writing talents mushroom from the Kodava land.

source: http://www.medium.com / Medium / Home / by Shrividya Somanna / February 05th, 2021

A Dear Diary moment with a star Olympian!

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Dear Diary,

Pink, white, and red roses stood with pride outside his house in Konnankatte, a place located in the Southernmost part of Kodagu. A plot is full of rose plants and manicured buffalo grass for the lawn. Gradually, a small figure walks in. Once standing at a height of 5’8” with a sturdy build, Dr. M.P Ganesh has still not lost his wheatish complexion and spirited energy. He still wears a sacred thread which he sought from the darshan of Lord Venkateshwara believing in constant strength. The only transformation of this hockey legend from the 60’s to now was in his hair, from jet black to pristine white. He is an active person with an eye for detail.

He said, “You and I are the first ones to sit in this newly-made garden.” Dr. Ganesh kept two chairs in the middle of the lawn. I looked above me as I sat in one of the chairs, to see an old mango tree leaning to block enough sunlight. Around me, there were roses, of gold, silver, and bronze sparkling as the golden hues of the sun hit them. I was in awe, for I was only thinking … why is he taking so much pride in a rose garden, he who has seen the world with his hockey stick and having lived in different, beautiful places across the globe. He broke the silence as he read my mind. “This garden means so much to me because my wife takes pride in this. She loves flowers as much as I love playing hockey. So this is my accomplishment post-retirement. All my life, I have not been able to dedicate as much time to my family because of my professional life. My family was the sport itself. I used to eat, drink, and sleep hockey.”

Then he continued narrating his life story to me…

Sitting quietly in his chair and sipping the hot lemon tea, Dr. Mollera Poovaiah Ganesh was reminiscing the good old days. A man in his 70’s, he must be so proud of his achievements, but he was so proud of the rose garden and the lawn in front of his house in Kodagu. That showed his modesty. His age beckons him to set into an Autumn-Winter phase but his spirit and energy were like the Summer and Spring, still full of beans! Little did he know, having been born in a country at the time of its independence, that his life would be roses. But roses with thorns!

I was here to write his autobiography. My first book and that too first time, risking it all on this genre. At first, I often pondered as to how I would go about this because personally speaking, I swim in a sea of emotions. My writing reflects emotion and description. This is not so for Dr. Ganesh. He is a man of logic with an analytical mind and left-brained. However, I was only given the task of writing the book in his words and not his emotions. Often, simply, I had to imagine playing Field Hockey and winning medals at the Olympics and World Cups. Time and again, I could sense a patriarchal point of view from his side as opposed to my ‘girly’ world of thoughts, a war inside my head which I reluctantly put on paper.

It was my first day, my first time interacting with the narrator’s family. And this day became my Dear Diary Day because at first, I felt like I drove down to Wuthering Heights to meet Mr. Heathcliff after hearing so much about him. And the first thought that swept my mind in there, was that their life was all roses with thorns. There were perspectives and musings, all pertaining to pre-independence India from his end that was in war with the post independence world of thoughts from my end. Probably, I would have been able to write better if I could watch him play for real.

Dr. M. P Ganesh in action at the II Second World Cup (India vs. Netherlands)

Inside his country house, two photo frames caught my eye. One, a black and white frame of a young, ambitious Forward playing in Amsterdam at the World Cup.

You can see the playing style of young Ganesh. A footballer playing hockey, having sprint strides, playing long handle, bending his back lesser to hold the stick, often with a right leg forward and the ball on the right side. This angle provided a wrong view of the ball for the goalkeeper when Dr.Ganesh scored.

Mrs. and Mr. Ganesh with their late son, Ayyappa

The other, a bubbly young child, in all smiles… a photo of his only son who succumbed to a deadly disease at 20 years of age. I was often told by many that the son, Ayyappa was a born sprinter, very talented.

“I always imagine that my son, Ayyappa is looking and smiling from above. My son like a twinkling star in the night sky. If I ever come across a sports talent, especially amongst the workers, I quickly make sure that they reach the right training body because I became a hero from being a zero. I know that I scripted my story and Lady luck was always with me but what is luck without a little tarnishing and hard work, ” he quips.

The wife, Mrs. Prema Ganesh is truly a strong woman, devoid completely of any emotions there is, very rhetoric and straightforward in her talk. An avid reader, she loves History and Sociology. At 19, she was sent with her newly married husband to Italy soon after exams and marriage. Her world was quite like the solitary reaper, with language becoming a barrier. Her husband would travel often for the Games and that’s when the books became her best friends. The flowers outside her house today were like children to Mrs. Ganesh. She nurtured, cared for, and admired them. She used to be an athlete in her school days.

The world called Dr. M.P Ganesh the Indian Tiger of Hockey. The tiger himself had something to tell about this…“Grace, strength, agility, and enormous power. A tiger has all these qualities and is, therefore, our national animal. People thought that I was the “king of hockey” like the tiger was the king of the jungle. And to think of it, my life would have been different if I had not run away to the army. A tiger takes risks, chases behind its goals, is all alone yet determined. A tiger is a royal animal. I was chasing behind money, but money did not make royal. My passion did. So, I started chasing my passion. I’ve had many setbacks in life, but I believe life’s a game and we must play it until its end. Everyone who makes it to the end with something to give to society is a winner. It need not be big; it can be little yet significant.

I wish to relive those days because those were the days. Days like roses. But roses with thorns.”

Living the Dream: An Autobiography of Dr. M.P Ganesh is available in Notion Press store, Amazon, Kindle, iBooks, Google Books, and Kobo. Check the link below!

https://amzn.to/2Y0iOHf

source: http://www.medium.com / Medium / Home / by Shrividya Somanna / September 29th, 2021

Swimming at a positive pace: Guddanda Kavitha Chittiappa’s story

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

“When you cannot find the sunshine, be the sunshine!” says a cheerful 50-year-old, Guddanda Kavitha Chittiappa (married to Kodira) who hails from Maharashtra. Today, the world is rising of waters, dark and deep or so we think. Living in a perfectly Utopian world is Kavitha who is a former national level Diver and a Swimmer.

As light is to darkness, Guddanda Kavitha Chittiappa has been the light of hope to the young and old. She says, “I worked for a corporate for 29 years, then quit because I thought it was time to give back. I had reached a point in life where there was nothing to look forward to. I wanted to make a difference in my life and the lives of the people around me. That was when I decided to start, “Aqualiners” which is a swimming academy. This academy teaches swimming, Aqua Therapy, Aqua Rehabilitation, and Aqua Fitness to children and adults, differently-abled kids and adults, senior citizens.” Kavitha has been training the intermediate as well as the competitive-level swimmers in Bengaluru.

Always sporting a natural smile, Kavitha has been quick to change her stride post-pandemic. Most parents of the specially-abled children had fewer options on their plate. Thanks to Kavitha, these children could attend online classes for their physical exercises.

She has an international certification on ‘active aging’ and works with senior citizens on age-related ailments on land and water. During this lockdown, she has started an online exercise session for family and friends to ensure that they keep themselves physically fit and active. She has started land-based exercises (movement therapy) as the pools have shut post-Covid-19.

It all started with Kavitha helping her aunt with online physical exercises. What started as a “family workout hour” with her aunt became popular! “Soon, I was not just helping my aunt but her friends too,” she says. The word spread that Kavitha was helping with physical exercises. Many joined because it was not just a workout group that Kavitha had started but a therapeutic group where the participants could vent out their feelings and share their activities during the lockdown phase. “If each of us can make a difference in one person’s life, we could bring positivity to so many people. If I could get 12 ladies every day, on the line and I look at their health… If one of them misses my sessions, I can ask him or her what happened. So, I know everyone is safe for the day,” says Kavitha.

Also, a yoga teacher and a Pranik healer, she works selflessly to enable the specially-abled children with a power of positivity in the mind, in the body. Commenting on how she was coping with classes post Covid-19, she adds, “I couldn’t meet my students and I missed those hugs and smiles, the real connect. But the fact that we could still be there for each other was amazing.”

Her aura of positivity blooms in her own words, “Whatever I do, I always give my 100%. I smile because it brings out the best in me. I believe in my students’ potential, that everyone is unique and different and the best can be brought out of each student. I receive what I give. I give or receive love, hope, and power.” Kavitha has changed so many lives, especially the lives of the young and the old. This world definitely needs more Kavithas!

source: http://www.medium.com / Medium / Home / by Shrividya Somanna / February 07th, 2022

Jayalakshmi Kodava Association Felicitates MLA A.S. Ponnanna

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022)), Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Annual get-together event honours two accomplished authors, student achievers from the community

Mysore/Mysuru:

The 18th annual get-together of the Jayalakshmi Kodava Association was held recently at the Kodagu Sahakara Sangha, Jayalakshmipuram, Mysuru. Virajpet MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna was the chief guest.

MLA Ponnanna was honoured with a custom-made marquetry art piece depicting Talacauvery, the birthplace of River Cauvery. Accepting the felicitation, Ponnanna spoke at length about the challenges in Kodagu and his plans for resolving them through active intervention and cooperation from all Kodavas and the people of his Constituency.

The event began with an invocation by Pandiyanda Anil Cariappa. President Ballyanda Uthappa extended a warm welcome to all attendees and presided over the event. During the ceremony, the Association paid their respects to two departed members. They also introduced new members who joined the Association between Aug. 14, 2022 and Aug. 27, 2023.

In a significant decision, the previous year’s committee will continue to function for the years 2023-2024, with Ballyanda P. Uthappa as President, Pandiyanda Girish as Vice-President, Jammada Ganesh Ayanna as Secretary and Mukkatira A. Somaiah as Treasurer.

Two accomplished authors within the community were honoured. Dr. Latha Muthanna received recognition for her third book, ‘The Jail and Other Tales,’ while Dr. Geetha Cariappa Chonira was applauded for her second English storybook ‘Girl with the Diary’ (A Tale from Kodagu).

The achievements of young members were also celebrated. Mukkatira Dia Ponnappa, daughter of Dr. Avinash Ponnappa and Nisha, an 8th-grade student, was acknowledged for her selection to participate in a week-long international debate workshop at Cornell University, New York. The workshop aims to refine oratory skills.

Another young talent, M.J. Devanshi, daughter of Mallangada N. Jayprakash and Swetha, a 7th-grade student, was recognised for her accomplishments in air rifle shooting competitions.

President Ballyanda Uthappa discussed various issues for the betterment of the Association and encouraged members to actively participate, both during good and challenging times. Treasurer Mukkatira Somaiah presented the accounts for the year 2022-2023, which were approved by the general body.

Jammada Ganesh Ayanna introduced the MLA. The event was conducted by Mukkatira Somaiah, with assistance from Codanda Chitra Medappa. A vote of thanks was proposed by Pandiyanda U. Girish. The programme ended with a sumptuous Kodava traditional dinner, fostering wonderful fellowship among all attendees.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 03rd, 2023

Annual Kodava Meet To Begin Today In San Francisco Bay Area

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Nri's / Pio's, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022)), Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , ,

California:

The Annual Kodava Convention in North America is scheduled to take place on Sept. 2 and 3, 2023, in the San Francisco Bay Area, famously known as Silicon Valley. The convention will culminate on Sept. 3, coinciding with the Kodava community’s Kailpoldh festival. The inaugural day’s events will start at 5 pm.

This convention is a tradition spanning approximately 15 years. This time, over 500 Kodavas and their families from across the United States have registered to participate in the event, which is jointly organised by around 40 Kodava families.

According to the organisers, the two-day event will see the participation of Kodava guests from around the world. They have received well-wishes from notable Kodavas, including individuals from the military, sports, and the entertainment industry.

Registration had to be closed due to limited seating capacity. Local families will come together to showcase the cultural events that reflect the deep-rooted Kodava heritage and their unique talents, as stated by the organisers.

The programme will feature a blend of traditional and cultural events, including Baalo Paat performances, Kailpodh Ayudha Puja, Kodava cultural dances, Kodava Koota updates, an entrepreneurial mixer, a Kodava cultural skit, and the traditional Bolakaat.

This convention serves as a gathering for Kodava brethren from across North America, providing an opportunity to meet, learn and celebrate the rich Kodava culture. This year’s convention is aptly named ‘namme-by-the-bay’ and promises to offer attendees a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the world of Kodava tradition, unique attire, art, cuisine, culture and the deities.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 02nd, 2023

‘Mentor’ Ashwini Ponnappa finds solace in fresh challenges

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

Ashwini Ponnappa, who has achieved many firsts for Indian badminton, is drawing new energy from her 20-year-old partner Tanisha Crasto. But the 33-year-old says her biggest challenge is to stay motivated.

Mentor Ashwini Ponnappa finds solace in fresh challenges
Ashwini Ponnappa poses for a photo among shuttles at a badminton court. (Photo credit: Ashwini Ponnappa/Instagram)

Ashwini Ponnappa is unbothered about her age. An average female shuttler retires at 28, but Ashwini, even at 33, does not see any reason for slowing down. She does not let the thought of retirement sneak into her mind either. Having recently taken up the fresh challenge of playing two intense and physically demanding disciplines – women’s and mixed doubles – instead of one, Ashwini says she ‘finds solace’ in distributing her priorities. “It is not easy to play two events, but it is something that I want to do at this point, I kind of find solace in playing two events rather than one,” Ashwini told The Bridge.

Ashwini broke her long-standing and rather futile partnership with N. Sikki Reddy last year, following her highly successful one with Jwala Gutta which ended in 2016. She tried her hands at pottery and commentary before embarking on a fresh challenge by pairing up with Tanisha Crasto, 13 years younger than her. To put the matter into perspective, when Ashiwni had won her first title – the national sub-junior girls’ doubles gold in 2004 – Tanisha had been in her nappies.

A partner in the mould of a mentor

Ashwin admitted that the trickiest thing for her now is to stay motivated. But Tanisha’s exuberant presence is not allowing her to lag behind. “As you get older, things get tricker. When you are young, you have time on your side, enthusiasm. For me, the challenge right now is to look after my body and keep my mind fresh. And to keep going, keep pushing and keep having that belief and hope that ‘yes, you are going to get that result, again’,” Ashwini said. “It’s tricky, especially when it comes to getting to the stadium and training every single day. The glimmer of hope is that I always believe something good is going to come my way. And starting over with a young partner is a motivating,” she stated.

Being a senior player, Ashwini is more than just a partner in this new partnership. “I love the energy and enthusiasm that she (Tanisha) brings in to the court. Partnering with her is quite fun, because she always wants to do well. And she is very gritty on court. Our age gap does not matter on court. Of course, since I have played for such a long time, I tend to be more like a mentor,” she said. But Ashwini ruled out having any seniority complex. “But having said that, when you are on board, you cannot have a seniority complex. At the end of the day, you are in a partnership irrespective of how big the age gap is,” added the shuttler.

Even though the Ashwini-Tanisha partnership is at a nascent stage now, the combination has started clicking. They claimed their first International Challenge title in Nantes, France, in June. They were also part of India’s mixed team silver medal-winning squad at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Ranked 56th in the world, Ashwini-Tanisha is the second-choice women’s doubles pair for India after Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand. The pair will next be seen in action at the Asian Games in Hangzhou in September. However, Ashwini is no longer in the reckoning for the Olympics or BWF World Championships, as she has slipped out of the top 32. “We just started playing in January. Unfortunately, we have not played too many tournaments. But I am very happy with the fact that we won the Nantes International Challenge. We are just getting started, we have a long way to go,” Ashwini asserted.

Juggling between challenges Her women’s doubles career is already legendary, but Ashwini’s transition to mixed doubles has always been challenging. “Switching to mixed doubles has always been a challenge. It is easier to have a woman on your side and also one at the back of the court. I have been a women’s doubles specialist in my career so far. I have always been known as a player who is predominantly at the back of the court rather than front,” explained Ashwini. “The most obvious difference is that in mixed doubles, you always find the girl at the net,” she said.

But, Ashwini, like always, is not willing to give up. “I think I have adapted over the years, which also requires me to move into the net. It’s not natural for me, but I have learnt to make the transition to the back of the court,” she said about the challenge of playing mixed doubles. This challenge is precisely the reason her partnership with B. Sumeeth Reddy has not taken off yet. In the mixed-gender event, they are ranked 64th and are yet to taste success. This is the latest of Ashwini’s many attempts to make her mixed doubles career fly. She had previously paired up with Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, to whom she attributed the speed and power of her smash. But that partnership was severed soon as Satwik specialised in men’s doubles and gave up on mixed doubles.

As she is ranked outside the top rung, Ashwini is no longer a sure shot on the World Tour; she features regularly in the qualifiers. This makes her newest journey more strenuous, as she has had to juggle between smaller tournaments for ranking points, where she often plays too many matches in a day. “If I am playing the bigger tournaments, it is not much of an issue because there is enough time. But if I am playing the smaller tournaments, which we have to since we do not really have a good ranking, there are times when you could end up playing three to four matches in a day,” said Ashwini.

Pride of Indian women’s doubles

Ashwini has been a trailblazer in Indian women’s doubles along with Jwala. The duo achieved many firsts for Indian doubles, by winning Commonwealth Games gold and BWF World Championships bronze. In fact, for 11 years, Ashwini and Jwala were India’s only doubles pair to win a medal at the Worlds before Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty – pioneers in men’s doubles – matched their feat in 2022 in Tokyo.

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“We were the first to win the bronze medal at the World Championships. And we were the first ones to win a bronze medal overall in 28 years. It was a very special moment for us. The best part for me was that we enjoyed the entire tournament. The icing on the cake was the bronze medal,” Ashwini said.

Ashwini welcomes changes in women’s doubles

Though she finds herself out of favour in the Indian badminton contingent in top-notch events, the seasoned star is delighted with the changes in Indian women’s doubles, which has emerged from an earlier archaic philosophy to become an attractive discipline for youngsters.

“When I started, I did not want to play doubles. I was more interested in women’s singles. I was asked to choose it. But over the years, I have proved myself as a women’s doubles specialist,” said Ashwini.

She welcomes the recent trend where more players are taking up the discipline and sponsors are supporting their bids. India now has two women’s doubles pairings in the top 50. There are five more in the top 100, including Ashwini-Tanisha at 56.

“It has evolved quite a bit in the last decade, especially the last few years. Especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Youngsters are being pushed towards doubles and sponsors are supporting them. In the past, only one or two pairs were sent and not a lot of pairs went on their own. This has changed drastically,” observed Ashwini.

However, Ashwini finds the latest BWF World Tour hectic, where shuttlers are forced to compete for ranking and Olympic qualification points round the year.

“It gets really overwhelming at times. It is hard to find the right gap for a break. It would be nice if we have a streamlined year, where we would also get an off season. But I would say the sport is growing the way it should grow. There’s always good and bad, it depends on how you look at it,” opined Ashwini.

source: http://www.thebridge.in / The Bridge / Home> Badminton / by Sudipta Biswas / August 27th, 2023


Paadi Igguthappa Temple In Kodagu Gets A Grand Entrance Gate

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All

Madikeri:

The grand entrance gate at the Paadi Igguthappa Temple in Kakkabbe, constructed at a cost of Rs. 12 lakh, was inaugurated by former Kodagu District Minister M.R. Seetharam. The event took place yesterday, and the funding for the gate was generously provided by Seetharam’s family.

Speaking on the occasion, Seetharam said that the gate’s construction and inauguration were made possible by the blessings of Lord Igguthappa. He highlighted that it was his family’s desire to contribute to this endeavour.

Seetharam also mentioned that the concrete road leading to the temple, built earlier for the convenience of devotees, still requires some finishing touches in the middle section, which will be completed in the near future.

Seetharam and his family received praise from both the Temple Committee and devotees for their generous donation towards this noble cause.

Among those present were President of Akhila Kodava Samaja and Temple Devathakka Parandanda Suman Kaverappa, President of the Devotees’ Group Kandanda Joyappa, Kaddaniyanda Harish Bopanna, Seetharam’s wife Shrithi Seetharam, children Raksha Ramayya, Sundar Ram, Lalitha Nandakumar and Kaliyanda Harry Mandanna, Parandanda Dolly, Bachamanda Poovanna, Lava Chinnappa, Kaliyanda Sampan Aiyappa, Pandanda Naresh, Bidatanda Thammaiah, Temple Parupathedara Paradanda Prince Thammaiah and Revenue Supervisor Ravikumar.

On this occasion, Seetharam contributed by performing rituals including the ‘Thula Bhara’ ceremony, adhering to the temple’s procedures. The rituals were carried out under the guidance of temple priests Kushabhat, Jagadish, and Shreekant.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / August 28th, 2023

Coffee, family, and perseverance: How a Coorg boy became a tennis champion

Amazing Feats, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Sports, World Opinion, , , ,

‘It’s having the right people around—that is crucial. To stop a negative mindset and have the team encouraging and moving you forward, that helps one grow,’ says Rohan Bopanna.

Coffee, family, and perseverance: How a Coorg boy became a tennis champion
Rohan Bopanna

Twenty years in the making, the legacy of tennis champion Rohan Bopanna has been strong and sublime. The oldest player on the masters’ circuit at 43, the lone Indian winning matches, tennis is ingrained in his soul. Now, the champion turns his aggressive play, ball plucking, and serve-oriented game to the 2023 US Open doubles draw with Australian Matthew Ebden, all the while also embracing his first love coffee – as Coffee Board of India’s coffee ambassador. But, more on that later.

At a time when the rigours of age force one to hang their boots, Coorg and Bangalore boy Rohan Bopanna perseveres. Playing his best tennis yet, 2023 saw him win an ATP master’s title, reach a major final and semi-final, making it back onto the doubles ranked No. 8. This resilience, perseverance, discipline and insatiable urge to compete has been his lode star. From a “not-scholarship worthy teen” who paid for coaching and board in Pune, the years have only transformed his game and resolve into the Indian tennis juggernaut he is today. Aware of the constant battle with age, Rohan’s 2023 Davis Cup appearance will be his last, international tennis continues though.

“I am retiring from Davis Cup, not general tennis. Having played Davis Cup for 20-plus years, it is the right time to make the call. It is based in India, and I see a few younger players upping their ranking. Thus, I was aware that I will be replaced by another Indian, unlike on the tour where if I retire, it is not guaranteed that the spot will go to an Indian,” explains Rohan, adding, “Playing my last match in India will be special. So proud and happy about my 20-year journey at the Davis Cup,” adds the player currently in the US.

Brushing aside his age, he feels, “Age is truly a number. The mind limits us, it defines if you can or can’t push the limit. If you manage the demands on the body, anything is possible. The right time for recovery, sleep, food, strength and mobility is key.”
There are no off days for the grand slammer – an hour of mobility, exercise bands, strength work for his legs, agility and Iyengar yoga before practice. The gym for a cool down, he adds, “Doing squats is extremely painful for me as I don’t have cartilage. I focus on small muscles. Cooling down and stretching, and an ice bath is key. Investing and traveling with a physio helps me take care of my body as maintaining muscle is important.”

Loving simple home cooked fare, he admits being partial to rice, and no yeast. Not a stickler, if the urge strikes, in Rome, a pizza slice is welcome, even a rare dessert, and in Coorg his mom’s Pandi curry. Fruits, eggs, cereal for breakfast, his favourite filter coffee, salmon or chicken with white rice and vegetables for a meal, the most essential is, “Proper sleep – seven to eight hours, recovery is sacrosanct. Having a personal physio at Wimbledon helped me reach the doubles semi-finals after playing back to back matches on four consecutive days,” adds Bopanna.

Oh partner my partner

Bopanna and Matthew Ebden have been clinching tough matches on the doubles circuit since January 2023. A player who achieved a doubles career-high No. 3 in 2013, and earned 400th doubles win of his career in 2021, has over the relentless tournament-hopping, and match-playing found many partners – Imran Qureshi, Matwe Middelkoop, etc, and now Ebden. It’s about focusing on the relationship and evolving. “Camaraderie has to develop off the court too, which aids in tight matches. You need to trust each other, understand the need for space, when to take charge or change tactics. Ebden brings a calmness on court, and we both don’t get flustered,” mulls Rohan.

A Coorg at heart

Spending his formative years (till 14) at the family coffee estate Raja Prabha Estate at Madhapur (named after Raja his uncle, and Prabha his dad), one can easily picture a little Rohan running amok amid greenery, climbing and swinging from trees – even today, the outdoorsy persona thrives. “Being a part of coffee picking, harvesting, packaging – the estate has given me amazing memories. Tennis, I picked up much later, at 10. Till then, I was a naughty brat!” he smiles.

That tennis requires deep pockets, it’s Rohan’s parents’ unwavering support that has seen his fortunes rise. “When you are paying for so many tickets, it’s not easy – my coach, physio, wife and daughter. The hardest part is that from a young age one has to pay all the expenses. Even today, I pay for my coach, physio, travel, and unfortunately not many people know this, they think the federation helps,” he says.

Attributing his father for pushing his limits, and his mother for ensuring he was focused, today he realises the crucial role they played. “Not once did they say, ‘ok, tennis is going nowhere, let’s stop it.’ They encouraged me, gave me a chance to learn and excel. They wanted me to represent India one day. From 2002, now playing for 20 years has been a blessing,” he adds.

“Dad learnt and taught himself tennis in Coorg, he got eight members together, built a tennis court – formed a club, and they taught each other, even the wives! Appreciating this journey from basics – even today the club has no gym – my dad had built two poles with a rope to help strengthen my grip. Those days, often, there was no electricity, I would study under a candlelight, that was normal,” chuckles Rohan.

Gifted a bicycle in Pune, for four years, the grand slam winner would pedal 14-15 km every day, then at 19, he got a 1999 Hero Honda Splendour, which is there even today!

Many tennis players visited the estate for his wedding to Supriya, and loved it. “Mahesh, Sania and Rishi have come there – and yes, they played tennis on that basic court where I started my journey,” he says.

Dad’s biggest fan is Tridha

Rohan thrives on competition. But tennis can be a lonely endeavour. Respite with family helps, and Rohan is grateful his daughter can witness him play. “Our daughter Tridha is four. She watches me play – which is an amazing feeling. I am happy she can witness my live tennis instead of saying, ‘Oh, my dad used to play.’ It makes a world of difference. Having Supriya and her around is a blessing. She might not understand the game but is thrilled to watch me practice, picks up balls, she even brings a racket for fun – When I lose a match, she has now learnt to muster the courage, to say ‘bad luck’,” says the doting father.

The inner circle plays a significant role in an athlete’s journey, and his robust support system includes coach Scott Davidoff who has worked with players like Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza. Bringing a new energy to Rohan’s steadfast game, he adds, “Scott has been travelling with me for over 12 years. We are able to push and play at a higher level. He brings stability. When overwhelmed, Scott understands my struggles, is succinct, and helps manage the mind. It could be a suggestion on slowing down my first serves if I am not accurate, or using a kick serve – his perspective comes from years of experience.”

Brewing the coffee narrative

His love affair with coffee has come full circle as coffee ambassador for the Coffee Board of India. A rite of passage with the ubiquitous seed, the World Coffee Conference to be held in Bangalore from September 25-28, and Rohan is embracing this role whole heartedly. “The Coffee Board CEO recognised that I was doing my bit for Indian coffee. I’d love to showcase Indian coffee, its rich culture – which many are unaware about. To bring India onto the world map. Indian coffee is uniquely grown under shade, compared to others grown in direct sunlight,” pipes the guy always carries his coffee filter and roast on tour.

On awakening, a ritual steeped in love, the welcome brew and aroma is a camaraderie that is special. “My coffee love came way before tennis,” chuckles Rohan who is touring with gifts of his own artisan coffee blend. Many tennis players love coffee, thus the Rohan Bopanna blend in a tie up with Maverick and Farmer is quite the rage. “The beans are from my estate, roasted, and packaged – a medium roast 100 percent Arabica blend,” says the filter coffee aficionado who feels a medium roast enhances flavour, and is fascinated by the innumerable brewing methods.

Indian tennis needs structure

Indian tennis has been mercurial. While doubles has seen successes, the dearth of singles, Rohan feels, is because India currently does not have a structure to help its growth. “We need tournaments and opportunities for players based on rankings, more futures and challengers. Foresight too – each state tennis association should hold at least one of each per year. We have many junior tournaments, but after that, it’s zero – KSLTA, and MSLTA are trying to host tournaments which is great. If the other 15-20 states did that too, Indian tennis will get a full calendar. And Indian tennis will grow,” stresses Bopanna citing the example of US-based Ben Shelton (19) who is wowing fans and is in the top 100. “We don’t have that opportunity, we need to create it first before even asking where the players are,” he affirms.

Perseverance above all

From a dismal 2020 where he went five months without a win, a stellar 2022, and 2023, “It’s mental strength to constantly manage situations no matter what, that is important.” A calmer Bopanna now understands the reality of effort, how to stop the mind rambles. “It’s having the right people around – that is crucial. To stop a negative mindset, and have the team encouraging and moving you forward, that helps one grow.”

The writer is a senior journalist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.

source: http://www.firstpost.com / First Post / Home> Opinion / by Suruchi Kapur-Gomes / August 27th, 2023