In the heartland of coffee cultivation, Kodagu, this year’s harvest tells a tale of mixed fortunes.
While coffee production has seen a significant dip due to erratic weather patterns, farmers are finding relief in skyrocketing prices that have touched record highs. However, rising labour and maintenance costs continue to be a concern, particularly for small-scale growers.
A season of contrasts
Kodagu’s major coffee-growing taluks — Madikeri, Virajpet and Ponnampet — are currently in the thick of the Robusta coffee harvest. However, due to inconsistent rainfall last year, coffee yields have plummeted by 30 percent to 50 percent in several plantations. Some lucky farmers have reported decent harvests, but for most, expectations have fallen short.
Yet, what the season lacks in quantity, it makes up for in price. A 50 kg bag of Robusta coffee (with husk) is now fetching between Rs. 12,000 and Rs. 13,000 — a historic high. In comparison, last year’s rates stood at around Rs. 9,000 per 50-kg bag.
The surge in prices is attributed to a global dip in coffee production, particularly in major coffee-producing nations like Brazil and Colombia. For farmers, this unexpected price hike is a much-needed ‘bumper gift’ after a challenging season.
Labour shortage adds to woes
Despite high prices, farmers are struggling to find enough labourers for harvesting. Kodagu traditionally relies on seasonal workers from Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Bihar, who arrive in December for the coffee-picking season.
This year, however, the declining yield and other factors have deterred many workers from making the journey, leaving farmers in distress.
Adding to the challenge, wages have surged. Two years ago, daily wages ranged between Rs. 400 and Rs. 450. This year, rates have shot up to Rs. 550 to Rs. 600 per day, further escalating the cost of cultivation.
To make matters worse, labourers now start work later than before. Earlier, they would begin harvesting by 8.30 am or 9 am and continue until 5 pm. Now, work starts at 10 am and wraps up by 3.30 pm, cutting valuable work hours.
This is mainly due to labourers being transported from distant locations. Apart from higher wages, estate owners must also bear the additional costs of labour contractors, driver fees and vehicle rentals, increasing the financial strain on growers.
First showers in February
In late February, Napoklu and Kaluru regions received their first rainfall of the year. While rain is usually welcomed in Kodagu’s coffee plantations, its timing is crucial.
The downpour has stalled the harvesting process, as ripened coffee cherries remain on plants alongside delicate new coffee blossoms for the next season.
For those who had already completed their harvest, the rain was a relief. But for those still working in the fields, it has become a frustrating setback.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 06th, 2025
CGH Earth Saha, a collection of handpicked escapes, has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjoining Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Situated within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa is just minutes from the entrance of Nagarhole National Park, offering an unparalleled gateway to one of India’s most pristine wilderness areas. The park is renowned for its tigers, leopards, elephants, wild dogs, sloth bears, and a thriving bird population.
Perched on the edge of Nagarhole’s forests, the villa provides an intimate and secure retreat where the sights and sounds of the jungle create an evocative and thrilling atmosphere. The estate, predominantly planted with Robusta coffee, is alive with a rich avian population, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
“We are thrilled to welcome nature and wildlife enthusiasts to Coorg Wild Walk at Nagarhole. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park. This four-bedroom villa is a treat for all kind of travellers. Guests can wake up to bird calls, sip freshly brewed estate-grown coffee on the verandah, and set out on safaris and other curated activities. With year-round wildlife activity, the thrill of the forest is ever-present.
With this launch, CGH Earth Saha reaffirms its commitment to heritage, sustainability, and immersive experiences. Coorg Wild Walk is a tribute to the forest, designed for a truly authentic connection with nature,” said George Joseph, Vice President – Operations, CGH Earth.
The cozy estate home has been remodeled to serve the visitors with an unhindered experience of the forest. Each of the four rooms can be booked individually, or guests can reserve the entire villa for a private getaway.
The expansive picture windows offer uninterrupted views of the lush coffee plantation and forest beyond, ensuring guests stay connected to nature at all times. The lodge’s semi-open lounge and dining areas welcome fresh air and natural light, creating a tranquil atmosphere amidst nature. Beautifully enhanced with Kodava crafts and artifacts, these spaces add a distinct local charm to the home.
The culinary experience at Coorg Wild Walk reflects the land it inhabits. Guests can indulge in the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with a menu that highlights traditional dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Beyond the villa, a wealth of experiences awaits. Under the guidance of a naturalist manager, guests can explore the estate on nature walks, embark on birdwatching excursions, and enjoy picnic outings by serene water bodies. Safaris in Nagarhole offers a rare chance to witness the region’s diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for wildlife photographers.
With its unparalleled proximity to the national park, thoughtfully designed spaces, and deep commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha’s Coorg Wild Walk is where adventure and serenity converge.
source: http://www.traveltradejournal.com / Travel Trade Journal – TTJ / Home> Hotel Connect> International Hotels / by TFG / March 07th, 2025
The Kodagu Zilla Panchayat will hold a district-level job fair at Madikeri near here by under the Sanjeevini – Karnataka State Rural Livelihood Promotion Society’s (KSRLPS) Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) – Grameena Kaushalya Yojane (GKY) scheme on March 8.
According to an official statement here, the district-level job fair scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. at District Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Madikeri is expected to offer employment opportunities to at least 800 candidates in various companies.
Several reputed companies are scheduled to participate in the fair and offer on-the-spot job opportunities and select candidates for training programmes, a statement said.
Chief Executive Officer of Kodagu Zilla Panchayat Anand Prakash Meena has urged unemployed youth between 18 and 35 years of age, to make use of the opportunity.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau, Mysuru / March 05th, 2025
The increasing clamour for varieties of exotic fruits has made avocados aka butter fruit — a popular fruit in India. Often hailed as ‘Fruit of the Rich’, avocados are steadily expanding their market but there only two Indian varieties of the fruit in the country and they are yet to make their mark over the popular Mexican varieties favoured by farmers.
To ensure large scale production of nutrient rich avocados, scientists from Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru have developed Arka Coorg Ravi — a complete desi variety of avocado to suit Indian conditions – after working for two decades at Chettalli research station in Kodagu. The new variety is named after IIHR scientist H Ravishankar, who worked at Chettalli station for 35 years and breathed his last a few years ago.
Unlike regular varieties of avocado which yield 60-80 kg of fruits per plant, the new variety will give 100-180 kg per plant, they said. “Avocados have big seeds and less pulp. But this variety comes with small seeds, ensuring 80% pulp recovery and more nutrients on the platter,” revealed BM Muralidhar, fruit scientist at IIHR-Chettalli station.
Initially popular in the coffee growing belt of Karnataka, avocados are now cultivated in large numbers in Mandya, Ramanagara, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar and Chikkaballapur districts.
“The new variety is adaptable to all conditions and over 25,000 plants are being distributed. The IIHR has retained the mother seed and only grafted seedlings will be distributed to the farmers,” he pointed out.
Meaty alternative for vegans
Catering to the growing tribe of vegans and those switching to gluten-free diet, IIHR scientists have developed a healthy alternative to meat by utilising the popular jackfruit. With high content of dietary fibre and bio active components that regulate blood sugar in the body, the ‘Arka tender jack frozen patties and kababs’ are projected as healthy alternatives to meat and maida.
Preethi P, IIHR scientist in post-harvest technology, said, “Most of the vegan patties, kababs products that are in the market are usually a blend of multiple products and full of preservatives that affect health. However, this is completely made from tender jackfruit chunks and free of any preservatives.”
It will be available at half the price of existing brands in the market, she said.
source: http://www.msn.com / MSN / timesofindia.com / Home> City News> Bengaluru News / by Niranjan Kaggare / February 27th, 2025
A State-level plastic surgeons’ conference will be held at Virajpet in Kodagu from February 7 to 9.
The Karnataka Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (KAPRAS), which has more than 260 plastic surgeons, will be holding a three-day scientific conference to update knowledge and exchange ideas, said KAPRAS vice-president H.V. Satish, who is also a senior plastic surgeon at Apollo BGS Hospital in Mysuru.
Dr. Satish said a total of 160 plastic surgeons from different parts of the State are expected to attend the event.
“The topics include cosmetic surgery, reconstruction after cancer surgery, surgery for birth defects, complex limb injuries, nerve injury treatment, microvascular surgery, etc.,” noted a statement.
Also, international and national speakers of repute have been invited to deliver talks at the conference while two masterclasses have been organised to teach young post-graduates, the statement added.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / February 09th, 2025
In the first few months of FY25, Indian coffee exports surpassed the $1 billion mark, registering an impressive 42.65% YoY growth. India’s diverse coffee regions, high-quality beans and unique farming techniques are increasingly filling gaps traditionally dominated by Brazil, Vietnam, Ethiopia and Colombia. However, strict EU deforestation rules pose challenges for small farmers due to high compliance costs.
India is the fifth-largest coffee exporter in the world. | Image: Shutterstock
A curious question—Are you team chai or coffee?
I’m team coffee by all means! A cup of steaming hot coffee is all I need to kickstart my day!
And not just me, lately the world is waking up to Indian coffee. For context, India’s coffee industry has achieved a significant milestone, with exports surpassing the $1 billion mark for the first time. Between April and November 2024, India’s coffee exports rose to a record high of $1.15 billion compared to $804.4 million during the same period last year, registering an impressive 42.65% growth.
Source: Department of Commerce
Seeing this remarkable growth, it is clear that India is redefining its traditional tea-dominated narrative by emerging as a strong global coffee exporter.
Sounds amazing, isn’t it? So, what’s brewing up India’s coffee exports?
Key markets driving growth
India exports coffee to more than 50 countries around the world. However, the major markets driving India’s coffee exports are Italy, Germany, Russia, UAE, Belgium and Turkey.
Source: Coffee Board of India
India is the world’s seventh-largest coffee producer. It is also the fifth-largest coffee exporter, exporting 403,051 tonnes of coffee between January and December 2024. On average, India exports over 70% of its production.
What is pushing India’s coffee exports?
Various reasons contribute to India becoming a key player in the global coffee market.
Firstly, major coffee-producing countries like Brazil and Vietnam are facing supply constraints due to erratic weather patterns—droughts and extreme heat—caused by climate change. With these giants struggling to meet the demands, India is creating enormous opportunities to step in and fill the gap.
Secondly, Indian coffee has a uniqueness that puts it ahead of its global competitors. It is grown using traditional techniques in natural forests. Interestingly, we are the only country in the world where coffee is grown under natural shade. Moreover, it is uniquely hand-picked without the use of machinery, naturally harvested and sun-dried. While the sun-drying method takes much longer than mechanical drying, it enhances the flavour of the beans. Besides, it is also eco-friendly as it does not contribute to carbon emissions.
Thirdly, coffee farming in other countries often involves chopping off existing vegetation, whereas in India, the forest canopy stays almost intact. This environmentally sustainable way of cultivating coffee aligns perfectly with the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which prohibits coffee imports from regions that were deforested after 2020. This presents opportunities for Indian exporters.
Now you know the real reasons why Indian coffee typically commands a premium over the global benchmark!
The world looks to India for coffee
India mainly produces two varieties of coffee, Arabica and Robusta. While Arabica coffee has a mild aromatic flavour, Robusta coffee has a strong flavour on the taste buds.
FYI: India’s Robusta coffee is considered the best in the world, and its Arabica coffee is the second best, just after Columbia’s.
India primarily focuses on producing Robusta coffee, which accounts for 72% of India’s total production. Robusta coffee has a huge demand in the international markets, which is another reason for the surge in India’s coffee exports.
Did you know? India is considered the fifth-largest producer of Robusta coffee globally.
Not just this, Robusta beans are a favourite for instant coffee manufacturers worldwide. The rising demand for instant coffee in markets like Russia and Turkey has given a significant boost to India’s instant coffee exports, which make up a third of our total exports.
Besides, supply constraints in Brazil and Vietnam have led to a sharp rise in Robusta coffee prices. The prices have touched multi-decade highs, climbing more than 60% in 2024 alone. For context, Indian Robusta is fetching a premium of nearly $300 a tonne on the London-based ICE Futures Europe market. The surge in demand and prices presents Indian coffee exporters with a unique opportunity.
There is also a bitter reality to it
While Indian coffees are making a mark globally, let’s also accept the fact that the journey is not all that smooth.
Even though global prices are rising, coffee farmers are facing higher production costs due to rising labour costs and scarcity of labour. To put things in perspective, the labour cost in India is a massive 65%, whereas in Brazil it is just 25% of the total production cost. Why you ask? Well, it’s simply because the cultivation process is manual in our country.
Another challenge is growing climate changes and erratic rainfall patterns that severely harm the quality and yield of coffee and interfere with the sun-drying process.
That’s not all!
The EUDR compliance burden is putting extra pressure on farmers who will now need costly technological upgrades and struggle with heaps of paperwork, certifications and audits to meet the compliance requirements.
Having said that, the Coffee Board of India is developing a platform to help coffee producers in India comply with EUDR. While it will take some time to roll out, we might face some time-being challenges in exporting coffee to the EU.
So yeah, there are some challenges that we need to work on before India can climb the ranks to become a top coffee-exporting country.
The bottom line
Looking at the brighter side, India’s diverse coffee regions, high-quality beans and unique production process are increasingly filling gaps traditionally dominated by Brazil, Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Colombia.
By 2032, the Indian coffee market is projected to reach $1,227.47 million, which is huge!
As demand for Indian coffee increases, it’s clear that the Indian coffee industry’s future is bright and full of flavour!
Cheers team coffee!
source: http://www.upstox.com / Upstox / Home> News> Upstox Originals / by Namita Salgiya / February 22nd, 2025
Not many know that the birth place of Karnataka Milk Federation is a small town called Kudige in Kodagu district. The Hindu travels back to the roots of India’s second largest milk co-op.
The old dairy facility at Kudige in Kodagu, the birthplace of Karnataka’s first dairy cooperative, long before the rise of the Nandini as a brand. | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
In the quiet town of Kudige in Kodagu, an old dairy facility stands as a reminder of the humble beginnings of what would become one of India’s most iconic dairy brands, Karnataka Milk Federation’s (KMF) Nandini. Once a bustling cooperative hub where fresh milk was collected from local farmers, the site now lies in decay, with weathered walls, rusting equipment, empty crates, and broken foundation stones.
This reporter visited Kudige, the birthplace of Karnataka’s first dairy cooperative, long before the rise of the Nandini as a brand, and found that while the original building was in a dilapidated state, a modern, fully operational dairy facility now thrives 500 metres away.
Global recognition
Karnataka’s Nandini milk brand has grown into a globally recognised name, engaged in a range of activities from sponsoring Scotland and Ireland’s cricket teams during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup last year to constantly launching new products to diversify its business. It has been exploring new markets across the country, competing with Amul, India’s largest dairy producer. However, the roots of this success story trace back to a modest beginning in Kudige back in 1955. The story of this humble origin has largely remained obscured.
Malavika, a long-time resident of Kudige, explained the historical significance of the site, guiding this reporter through the derelict structure. “I have been working here in the Animal Husbandry Department for the past 20 years. My father also worked in this dairy. Now that operations have shifted to the new building, the old one has fallen into disrepair,” she explained.
Inside the old dairy building, the inauguration plaque remains surprisingly intact. It bears the inscription, “Milk Pasteurisation Scheme inaugurated by Lieutenant-Colonel Daya Singh Bedi, then Chief Commissioner of Coorg, on 24 July 1955.”
Malavika guided us through the premises, showing an old weighing machine, various dairy processing machinery, and even glass bottles that were once used to distribute milk. “From this dairy, milk was supplied to different parts of Kodagu, which was then a separate state called Coorg. My father often spoke about how local farmers would bring their milk here, which was then processed and distributed,” she recalled.
Despite its historical importance, the old dairy building at Kudige in Kodagu has been left in a neglected state. | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
Landmark neglected
Despite its historical importance, the old dairy building has been left in a neglected state. The site, currently under the control of the Hassan Cooperative Milk Producers Union (a part of KMF), has not received adequate maintenance. Local residents have raised concerns about its deteriorating condition.
Rudrappa K., a local farmer, expressed his disappointment. “The government should recognise the importance of this building and convert it into a museum or heritage site to showcase how the milk cooperative movement led to the creation of a successful brand like Nandini. Right now, the structure is in terrible condition. People throw garbage inside, and some even trespass into the premises. The authorities, either the government or KMF, should step in and restore this building,” he urged.
The transformation
Speaking to The Hindu, A.S. Premnath, former Managing Director of KMF, highlighted the historical significance of Kudige in Karnataka’s dairy industry.
“Not many people know that KMF had its origins in Kudige. The first dairy cooperative was established here in 1955. KMF itself was founded in 1974 as the Karnataka Dairy Development Corporation (KDDC) under a World Bank-funded project. It was later renamed Karnataka Milk Federation in 1984,” he explained.
KMF currently operates 15 milk unions across Karnataka, sourcing milk from Primary Dairy Cooperative Societies and distributing it to urban and rural consumers. The federation has approximately 28 lakh dairy farmer members across the State.
As Premnath points out, Kodagu is traditionally known for commercial crops like coffee, oranges, and cardamom, but not for dairy farming. This is probably why not many remember that it was also home to Karnataka’s first commissioned dairy plant. “The Kudige dairy was established in 1955. Later, in 1974, an integrated project was launched to restructure the State’s dairy industry on cooperative principles, laying the foundation for a new era of dairy development. With World Bank assistance, a dairy development project was initiated in 1975, initially covering Mysuru, Hassan, Tumakuru, and Bengaluru districts,” he said.
Premnath, who worked at KMF for nearly 40 years, was himself born and raised in Kudige. His father also worked at the dairy. “I have seen the journey of this Kudige from my childhood. The growth of KMF and Nandini is an incredible success story that started in this small village. I still remember how ghee was produced using firewood to boil the milk. ‘Coorg Ghee’ was a sought-after product back then, just like Coorg Coffee and Coorg Honey,” he reminisced.
The inauguration plaque that still remains intact. It bears the inscription, “Milk Pasteurisation Scheme inaugurated by Lieutenant-Colonel Daya Singh Bedi, then Chief Commissioner of Coorg, on 24 July 1955.” | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
Growth and expansion
In 2024, KMF recorded a 14% increase in milk procurement and a 10% rise in sales of milk and dairy products. As it continues to compete with other milk brands in South and West India, KMF has also expanded its presence in Delhi to further extend its footprint.
Of the nearly one crore litres of milk procured daily, KMF sells around 65 lakh litres as liquid milk, including UHT Goodlife and curd. About eight lakh litres are converted into milk powder for the Ksheera Bhagya scheme, which supplies milk to schoolchildren, while six lakh litres are used for producing milk-based products like ice creams and sweets.
KMF Chairman Bheema Naik spoke about the cooperative’s structure and its impact. “The Amul model of dairy cooperatives was introduced in Karnataka in 1974-75 with financial support from the World Bank, as well as Operation Flood II and III. The three-tier Anand Pattern structure — village-level dairy cooperative societies, district-level milk unions, and the state-level federation —ensures sustainable dairy farming. KMF is among the few cooperatives that have successfully transformed dairying from a secondary occupation into a full-fledged industry,” he said.
Milk bottles still found at the old dairy facility at Kudige in Kodagu. | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
Political controversies
Despite its cooperative structure, KMF has every now and then found itself entangled in the ups and downs of Karnataka’s politics, particularly during elections and milk price revisions. Ahead of the 2023 Karnataka State Legislative Assembly elections, a controversy erupted when the then-ruling BJP government allowed Amul to sell its products in Karnataka. This sparked allegations that Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah was attempting to merge KMF’s Nandini brand with Amul.
The move triggered widespread protests across Karnataka, with slogans like #SaveNandini and #GoBackAmul trending on social media. Protestors took to the streets, fearing that Nandini’s identity and autonomy were under threat. However, despite these challenges, Nandini remains a strong, homegrown brand that has significantly shaped Karnataka’s and India’s dairy industry, experts in the sector say.
The love for Nandini in Karnataka transcends business, holding deep cultural significance. Kannada cinema legend Dr. Rajkumar served as Nandini’s brand ambassador, free of charge, and even featured in the brand’s first and only television commercial in 1996. His son, Puneeth Rajkumar, later continued the legacy, signing an agreement with KMF in December 2009, again without any fee.
From a small village in Kodagu, Nandini has grown to become the second-largest milk cooperative federation in India. Reflecting on this remarkable journey, Premnath attributed KMF’s success to unwavering consumer loyalty, and the dedication of lakhs of farmers. “The strength of Nandini lies in its cooperative spirit and consumer trust. The farmers who contribute to KMF have made it what it is today,” he said.
Milk bottles still found at the old dairy facility at Kudige in Kodagu. | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
Challenges mount too
While the dairy brand has seen remarkable success, challenges persist as milk unions urge the State government to increase retail prices to ensure better remuneration to the dairy farmers. The farmers have been demanding a hike in incentives, even as KMF faces a glut in milk production.
In June last year, the KMF raised milk prices by ₹2 per litre and added 50 ml to every 500 ml packet. However, KMF officials argue that this increment is insufficient. The federation is facing mounting financial losses from an unsold stockpile of skimmed milk powder (SMP), adding to the strain on the dairy sector.
Amid this surplus, many of Karnataka’s 15 milk unions have reduced procurement prices by ₹2 per litre, triggering discontent among farmers. Currently, most unions pay ₹32.5 per litre to farmers, but in districts such as Kolar, Mandya, and Ballari, the rate has dropped to ₹30. Dairy farmers are also frustrated that the government’s ₹5 per litre incentive, introduced under the Ksheeradhaare scheme, has remained unchanged for over a decade despite increasing production costs.
The Ksheeradhaare scheme was launched in 2008 with a ₹2 per litre incentive, which was later increased to ₹4 per litre in 2013 and ₹5 per litre in 2016. However, since then, there has been no further revision, even as expenses for feed and maintenance have risen significantly. Adding to their woes, the State government has not disbursed these incentives for more than 10 months, leaving farmers struggling financially.
Farmers’ leader Kurubur Shanthakumar criticised the government, alleging that apart from withholding incentives, farmers are also being paid ₹1 less per litre for their milk. “There are approximately 38 lakh dairy farmers in Karnataka, and over 90% of them are women. The government speaks about women’s empowerment, yet it fails to ensure timely payment of their incentives,” he said. He further emphasised that the success of the Nandini brand is due to the efforts of farmers, and therefore, they deserve to be adequately compensated.
The new building of Karnataka Milk Federation at Kudige in Kodagu. | Photo Credit: K. BHAGYA PRAKASH
Consumers chose brand name ‘Nandini’
Interestingly, the name ‘Nandini’ was not chosen by officials at the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) but was suggested by the consumers who would go on to support and cherish the brand. According to A.S. Premnath, former Managing Director of KMF, in 1983, KMF decided to introduce a corporate brand identity for its milk and dairy products to strengthen its presence in the market. As part of this initiative, it reached out to consumers, inviting them to suggest a name for the brand. “The response was overwhelming, with a large number of consumers recommending the name ‘Nandini.’ Given the strong public preference for this name, KMF officially adopted ‘Nandini’ as the brand name for its dairy products,” Premnath said.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B.P / February 07th, 2025
The IBNII Coorg, an eco-luxury nature resort where sustainable living meets luxury, as the luxury of tomorrow, has announced the opening of Aarogyaa by The IBNII, an exclusive Ayurvedic healing sanctuary within its premises. Offering guests a transformative wellness experience, rooted in ancient Ayurvedic principles and eco-sustainability, Aarogyaa by The IBNII is designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul through a multi-faceted approach to holistic well-being.
Aarogyaa by The IBNII is spread over 15 acres within The IBNII, which sits over a 125-acre lush premise. This dedicated Ayurveda sanctuary is located amidst three water bodies, with a dedicated kitchen and restaurant for preparing diet-based food according to each patient’s satvik requirements, a large yoga deck overlooking one of the natural ponds, an in-house Ayurvedic doctor with six male and female therapists, and dedicated eight new Ayurveda cottages.
Dr. Sherry Sebastian, Managing Director, The IBNII Coorg, said, “Opening an Ayurvedic Sanctuary was always part of our plan. Our approach integrates the wisdom of Ayurveda with the serenity of nature, ensuring a unique and rejuvenating experience for every guest to balance their doshas. This area also boasts of herbal trees, for the guest to heal through the herb-infused fresh air. At Aarogyaa, we invite our guests to embark on a journey of self-discovery, relaxation, and inner balance.”
An Ayurvedic wellness retreat, Aarogyaa by The IBNII Coorg integrates Ayurveda, Yoga, Pranayama, and therapeutic activities, providing guests with a well-rounded, immersive experience. By combining traditional healing techniques with modern relaxation therapies, the luxury retreat fosters a deep sense of inner balance and rejuvenation.
Ayurvedic Rituals: Drawing from India’s rich heritage, Ayurvedic therapies at Aarogyaa include specialized massages, herbal treatments, and personalized wellness programs aimed at restoring harmony between the body and mind.
Yoga and Pranayama: Guests can engage in guided yoga sessions to improve mobility and strength, while breath-control techniques (pranayama) enhance focus, reduce stress, and declutter the mind.
Therapeutic Activities: The retreat offers various therapeutic engagements, including painting, pottery, baking, and gardening—activities that stimulate the senses and promote mental well-being.
Eco-Sustainability Commitment: Consistent with The IBNII Coorg’s commitment to eco-conscious hospitality, Aarogyaa integrates sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience.
Muddappa Kuppanda, General Manager, The IBNII Coorg, said, “At The Ibnii, wellness is not just about personal health—it’s about creating a holistic, balanced connection with the environment. Aarogyaa, our signature wellness program is designed to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit and integrates all traditional wellness practices like Yoga, Meditation, and Ayurveda with modern healing therapies.”
At a driving distance of 5.5 hours from Bangalore Airport and 2.5 hours from Mysuru railway station, the IBNII Coorg is nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Madikeri.
source: http://www.voyagersworld.in / Voyagers World / Home> Wellness / by VW Bureau / February 11th, 2025
Where coffee, wilderness, and conscious living converge.
Blyton Bungalow
The road to Blyton Bungalow, tucked deep within the Poomaale Estate, winds through mist-laced hills, whispering forests, and the occasional burst of wildflowers. I knew, even before I arrived, that this wouldn’t be just another weekend retreat—it was a step into an untouched world where nature isn’t manicured but gloriously untamed, where birdsong replaces city sirens, and where life slows to the rhythm of the earth.
Nestled within the Beforest Collective, a community dedicated to regenerative farming and wilderness conservation, Blyton Bungalow isn’t a conventional resort. It’s an extension of the jungle—an old-world retreat designed to blend into its surroundings rather than conquer them. The journey here is part of the experience. There are no grand gates or ostentatious driveways. Just a winding path that slips deeper into the forest, each turn feeling like an unravelling secret.
A Home in the Jungle
The bungalow itself is a poetic ode to Kodava architecture, with sloped red-tiled roofs, airy verandas, and sun-warmed wooden floors. Six elegant suites open out into a world that is defiantly wild. Coffee bushes and jackfruit trees stand shoulder to shoulder, and somewhere in the distance, a Malabar giant squirrel bounds from branch to branch. It feels more like staying in a colonial planter’s estate—minus the excess—than a boutique stay.
As I sipped my first cup of freshly brewed estate coffee, still heady with its morning roast, I realised how removed I was from the world I had left behind. There was no beeping phone, no honking cars—only the meditative hum of cicadas and the rustling leaves responding to a passing breeze.
Hiking into the Wild
No visit to Poomaale is complete without stepping into the Western Ghats’ emerald embrace. Setting out just after sunrise, I hiked through the dense forest, the air thick with petrichor and the earthy scent of wet foliage. The jungle here isn’t tamed for tourists—there are no neat pathways, only trails left behind by elephants and deer.
I waded through knee-high grass, climbed over ancient tree roots that had twisted themselves into natural staircases, and followed the echoing call of a hornbill in the distance. The deeper I went, the more the modern world disappeared. Butterflies, in impossible shades of electric blue and sunset orange, flitted past me. A family of macaques observed me from a moss-covered branch, their heads tilted in curiosity.
Then came the pièce de résistance – a hidden waterfall tumbling down mossy rocks in a silken rush. It wasn’t marked on any map, and no signboard pointed the way. It was just there, waiting to be found. Stripping down to my hiking shorts, I let the cool mountain water crash over me, washing away not just the sweat and dirt from the hike but the last remnants of stress I hadn’t realised I was still carrying.
The Art of Slow Farming
Back at the estate, I walked through the organic coffee and permaculture farm, where agriculture isn’t a battle against nature but a collaboration with it. Unlike industrial coffee estates that clear-cut land and douse crops in chemicals, Beforest’s farming philosophy leans on natural balance. Shade-grown coffee flourishes under a canopy of ancient trees, and intercropping with native plants ensures soil fertility and biodiversity.
I was explained how the estate works on principles of food forests. Instead of monoculture, they plant multiple species – vanilla, black pepper, fruit trees—all creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. It was agriculture the way it was meant to be: not an imposition, but a dialogue with nature.
I ran my hands through raw, sun-dried coffee beans, still warm from the afternoon sun. Later, I tasted the results—single-origin, small-batch coffee that carried notes of dark chocolate and citrus, a world apart from supermarket blends.
Nights Under a Billion Stars
The true magic of Blyton Bungalow revealed itself at night. With no city lights to dim the sky, the stars stretched endlessly, a celestial tapestry I hadn’t seen in years. Fireflies blinked in and out of the darkness, their glow mirroring the constellations above.
Sitting on the open veranda, sipping a locally brewed honey mead, I listened to the jungle’s nocturnal symphony. The deep hoot of an owl, the distant trumpet of an elephant, the occasional rustling of leaves that hinted at some unseen creature slipping through the undergrowth. It was raw, unscripted, and completely unfiltered.
Leaving, But Not Really
As I packed up to leave, I felt a deep reluctance. Blyton Bungalow wasn’t just a place to stay—it was a place to belong. A reminder of what life could be when stripped of its unnecessary layers. A glimpse into a world where humans and nature coexist, not in conflict but in quiet respect.
I left with more than just memories—I carried the stillness of the jungle, the scent of rain-drenched earth, and the knowledge that somewhere, beyond the chaos of the city, this wilderness continues to thrive. And that, maybe, one day, I’d return—not as a visitor, but as someone who never truly left.
source: http://www.businesstoday.in / Business Today / Home> News> Lifestyle> Travel / by Pranav Dixit / February 06th, 2025
Shangri-La Eros New Delhi welcomes guests to an exceptional Chef Pin pop-up featuring the authentic Kodava cuisine crafted by Home Chef Smitha Kuttayya Boppanda from February 6 to 8, 2025.
The culinary showcase at the hotel’s international restaurant, Tamra presents cherished family recipes passed down through generations, offering diners a genuine taste of Coorg’s rich heritage. Home Chef Smitha, a classical dancer, published author, and storyteller, brings her multifaceted expertise to this unique dining experience that celebrates the traditional flavors of Kodava households.
Home Chef Smitha Kuttayya Boppanda brings to Shangri-La Eros New Delhi the culmination of a remarkable 15-year culinary journey. From her initial venture ‘Limited Overs’ to the establishment of Baked Delights and now Global Theeni, she has consistently delivered flavors that reflect her Kodagu roots. Her impressive track record of curating food festivals at renowned hotels like Taj Fisherman’s Cove and Hyatt showcases her dedication to sharing personal, memory-laden interpretations of Coorg’s rich culinary heritage.
The Chef Pin pop-up captures the essence of Coorg’s culinary heritage with a carefully curated menu showcasing the region’s bold and earthy flavors. The experience begins with starters like Nugge Elayithkande, a flavorful drumstick and potato preparation, Kumm Barthad with crispy fried mushrooms, Balekai featuring golden fried raw plantains, and the richly spiced Erchi Barthad, a mutton fry.
The mains celebrate both vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties, including Kumbala Curry with vibrant pumpkin, Baimbale Curry with bamboo shoots, and Kaad Maange Curry with wild mango. Meat lovers can savor Kaima Curry, Erchi Curry, and the iconic Pandi Curry with succulent pork.
Accompaniments like Kadambutt, Nooputtu, and Tarkari Pulav perfectly complement the meal, which ends on a sweet note with Kaskase Payasa and Madd Kool. Paired with Coorg’s celebrated coffee, this pop-up promises a memorable journey through Kodava cuisine.
The exclusive Chef Pin pop-up at Tamra promises an intimate dining experience where each dish shares a story from the heart of Kodagu. Guests can enjoy the Lunch Buffet at INR 3,200 plus taxes per person or the Dinner Buffet at INR 3,500 plus taxes per person, making it a truly memorable experience.
source: http://www.contentmediasolution.com / Content Media Solution / Home> Business / February 05th, 2025
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