An e-Prasad initiative has been launched at Sri Bhagandeshwara and Talacauvery Temples that are run by the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowment (Muzrai) Department.
The Department has tied up with India Post for delivering the prasad from the temples to the devotees. Kodagu Deputy Commissioner B.C. Satish gave a start to the initiative yesterday.
The prasadam box contains 100 ml Theertha (holy water) from the Talacauvery Brahmakundike (holy pond), Panchakajjaya from Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple in Bhagamandala, Kumkum and sandalwood paste.
Devotees can book the prasad on India post website www.indiapost.gov.in or by calling the toll-free number 18002666868. e-Prasad costs Rs. 300. If paid, the e-prasad will be delivered to the doorstep by post and the facility is available all over India.
The prasadam box will be delivered within four to five days of the money being paid. However, the facility is not open for devotees abroad and will be open for devotees who cannot make it to the Temples.
Steps will be taken to increase prasad distribution after devotees’ response, the DC said. Additional DC and Bhagamandala Sri Bhagandeshwara and Talacauvery Temple Administrator Dr. Nanjundegowda, Post Office Manager Ramesh Babu, Temple Executive Officer M.S. Dore, Temple Paarupathegara K.T. Ponnanna were present.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 07th, 2023
Community welcomes Government’s long-pending decision
Madikeri:
The State Government yesterday notified the constitution of the Karnataka State Kodava Development Corporation. This comes just days after Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai made an announcement in Kodagu during the inauguration of the Appachattolanda Hockey Festival that the Corporation will soon be constituted.
The notification stated that the newly constituted Corporation will strive for the comprehensive development of the Kodava community.
Virajpet MLA K.G. Bopaiah has thanked the Chief Minister for constituting the Corporation. “I had personally led a large delegation and met the Chief Minister underlining the importance of constituting a Board or a Corporation for the development of the community. Though this was a long-pending demand, the Chief Minister has notified it now,” he said.
People of Kodagu are thankful to the Government as the Corporation will exclusively strive for the development of the unique culture and distinct customs of Kodavas, he added.
The Kodava Development Corporation was one of the main and long-pending demands of the Kodava community. Expressing his happiness over the constitution of the Corporation, Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa of the United Kodava Organisation, who was the force behind the demand, told Star of Mysore this morning that it is a huge victory for the community.
“Kodavas have played a crucial role in taking the State forward and reaching newer heights. We have unique tradition, customs, heritage and culture that needs to be protected and the Corporation is a huge step in this regard. The community has played a vital role in the country’s defence sector and sports field, earning national and international accolades, he added.
Though there are notable achievements from the community, Kodavas have remained politically weak when compared to many other communities in Karnataka.
“The State Government has finally honoured the genuine demand of a political and cultural minority. It is a well-deserved gift for the distinct community and the complete credit goes to CM Basavaraj Bommai, former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, MLA K.G. Bopaiah, former MLC Veena Achaiah, Congress leader and former Advocate General A.S. Ponnanna, other MLAs, MLCs and largely the community,” Manju Chinnappa added.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 21st, 2023
The use of coconut, curry leaves, and tamarind is prevalent in Kodagu cuisine, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste. The dishes are usually spicy, but the heat is balanced with the use of coconut milk and other ingredients.
India has many unique culinary traditions from different cultures. One such culture that is fascinating is that of Kodagu, a small district nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Kodagu is a land of lush green forests, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls, but what sets it apart is its rich and diverse cuisine, especially the wedding cuisine.
Introduction to Kodagu and its wedding cuisine
Kodagu, also known as Coorg, is a district in the Indian state of Karnataka. The district is known for its unique culture, traditions, and cuisine. The Kodava people, the native inhabitants of Kodagu, have a rich history and a unique way of life that has evolved over centuries. One of the most significant aspects of Kodava culture is their weddings, which are elaborate affairs that involve a lot of rituals and customs, including an elaborate wedding feast.
The significance of pigs in Kodagu weddings
Pigs are considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and they play a significant role in Kodava weddings. In fact, the wedding feast is incomplete without a pig roast. The pig is not only the star attraction of the feast but also an essential part of the wedding rituals.
The preparation of the pig for the feast
The preparation of the pig for the feast is a time-consuming process that requires a lot of effort and skill. The pig is first caught and then taken to the groom’s house, where it is cleaned and prepared for the feast. The pig is then marinated with a special mix of spices and herbs and roasted over an open fire for several hours until it is cooked to perfection. The result is a succulent and flavorful dish that is the highlight of the wedding feast.
The traditional Kodagu wedding feast
The traditional Kodagu wedding feast is a grand affair that involves several courses, each with a unique flavor and aroma. The feast usually starts with a welcome drink, followed by the main course, which includes rice, sambar, and a variety of side dishes. The pig roast is the star attraction of the feast and is served with a special gravy and a variety of chutneys. The feast also includes a variety of desserts, including payasam and holige.
The flavors of Kodagu wedding cuisine
The flavors of Kodagu wedding cuisine are unique and distinctive. The cuisine is a blend of different spices and herbs that are locally sourced and handpicked. The use of coconut, curry leaves, and tamarind is prevalent in Kodagu cuisine, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste. The dishes are usually spicy, but the heat is balanced with the use of coconut milk and other ingredients.
The evolution of Kodagu wedding cuisine over the years
Kodagu wedding cuisine has evolved over the years, with new dishes and flavors being added to the traditional menu. The modern Kodagu wedding menu also shows the influence of other cuisines, like North Indian and Chinese. However, the traditional dishes and flavors still hold a special place in the Kodava culture and are an essential part of their identity.
The modern-day Kodagu wedding menu
The menu for a modern Kodagu wedding includes dishes that are both traditional and new. Some of the popular dishes include pandi curry (pork curry), kadambuttu (rice balls), and nati koli saaru (country-style chicken curry). The use of exotic ingredients such as bamboo shoots and wild mushrooms has also become popular in recent years.
Unique Kodagu wedding recipes to try
If you want to try some unique Kodagu wedding dishes, here are some must-try options:
• Koli Barthad: A spicy and tangy chicken dish that is slow-cooked with a special blend of spices and herbs, resulting in a delicious and savory dish.
• Baimbale Curry: A flavorful vegetarian dish that is made with bamboo shoots and coconut This is also a popular dish eaten on special occasions.
• Pandi Curry: A spicy and aromatic pork curry that is slow-cooked to perfection. It is a dish fit for royalty and is served at special occasions and weddings.
Kodagu wedding cuisine is a unique and flavorful culinary experience that is a must-try for food lovers. The cuisine is a blend of different spices and herbs that are locally sourced and handpicked, giving it a distinct taste and aroma. Pigs play a special part in Kodava weddings, and they help make the elaborate feast stand out. If you want to experience the rich and diverse culture of Kodagu, you must try their wedding cuisine.
source: http://www.slurrp.com / Slurrp / Home> Article / by Slurrp Editorial / March 28th, 2023
Two hi-tech ambulances with one costing ₹42 lakh and another ₹17 lakh were handed over to the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital attached to the Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in Madikeri and Virajpet Government Hospital, in Madikeri on Thursday.
Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha handed over the two ambulances.
The ambulance that was handed over to the district hospital (of KIMS) is an advanced one equipped to provide ICU care.
The MP said public healthcare was being upgraded providing the hospitals under the government set-up with advanced facilities. The Centre has decided to strengthen the public healthcare post COVID-19. The ambulances that were handed over today were part of the efforts.
He said the government has allocated ₹100 crore to Kodagu for increasing the beds at the district hospital to 450. The expansion of the hospital building is underway. Already, a women’s hospital with 150 beds has been given a start.
Kodagu will get all advanced healthcare services as a trauma care centre has also been sanctioned at a cost of ₹29 crore, he added.
MLAs Appachu Ranjan, K.G. Bopaiah and others were present.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / March 23rd, 2023
The Kodava hockey festival is a vibrant, month-long celebration held between March and April. The festival exudes the ambience and excitement of a mela with its draped festoons, welcome arches, and numerous stalls.
Come summer, and it’s hockey festival time in Kodagu. When schools close for summer vacation and coffee plantations take a break, Kodava families from around the world head home to participate in the Kodava Hockey Namme (festival) held in Kodagu (Coorg). It is time for Kodavas to battle with their hockey sticks at this tournament held in their home turf. With hundreds of families participating, the tournament is recognized as one of the largest field hockey tournaments in the world and finds a mention in the Limca Book of Records.
The Kodava hockey festival is a vibrant, month-long celebration held between March and April. The festival exudes the ambience and excitement of a mela with its draped festoons, welcome arches, and numerous stalls selling everything from automobiles to food. It is also an occasion for the Kodavas to dress up in traditional attire and participate in the procession and cultural programmes. Dancing and music add to the fun and frolic. One has to be here during the festival to experience the fierce pride of Kodavas in their glorious heritage, which they jealously guard.
Procession of Kodava women in their traditional attire
The genesis of the hockey festival can be traced back to 1997. It was the brainchild of late Pandanda Kuttappa, a former banker and State league referee. He is said to have conceptualised the festival after realising the deterioration in the standards of hockey played in the district. He hit upon the idea for a tournament among the families in order to encourage more youngsters to take up the sport.
The first editions of the festival were held in the village of Karada with 60 families competing. The festival has no permanent venue, something organisers are striving to achieve, and the festival has been held across the district in previous years.
Kodava children flaunt their traditional dress
The tournament started with the dual purpose of paying rich tribute to the sport in the region, and bringing together players in thousands in order to identify the best talents for the country. Over the years, more than 50 Kodavas have represented India in international hockey, earning their district the title of ‘Cradle of Indian hockey’. Hockey is to Kodagu what cricket is to India. It is common to find hockey sticks in every home.
This annual festival is hosted by a different family each year and will be known by the name of the host family. A family may not host the event more than once. Families apply to the Kodava Hockey Academy expressing interest and are allotted the tournament after evaluation. In a lifetime, a Kodava will only get to see their family host the cup once. For the 800-odd families in Kodagu, it has become a matter of pride and honour to host this iconic tournament. This is one of the reasons why family members from far and near take leave and arrive in droves to participate in the much- awaited festival games.
Appachettolanda, the host family of the 23rd edition of the Kodava Hockey Festival
The hockey festival has accomplished what perhaps nothing else could have — uniting distant families. It is the time for annual family reunions in their ancestral homes. What makes this festival distinctive is that it remains a family-oriented event, which has morphed into a major sporting event and festival in the country. Besides uniting warring relatives and families torn by strife, the hockey event is also a platform for community members to discuss and transact trade and business, besides scouting for marital alliances.
After a hiatus of four years due to floods and the pandemic, this year the hockey festival kickstarted with renewed vigour and energy. “This year (the 23rd edition) the Appachettolanda family is organising the event under the aegis of Kodava Hockey Academy. The festival is held at an estimated cost of Rs 1.5 crores, raised through contributions from the families, a grant from the Karnataka Government, and through sponsorships. More than 350 teams will participate in the festival this time. While the winning team will be given a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh, the runner-up will get Rs 2 lakh, and the teams that came third and fourth will get Rs 1 lakh each,” said Manu Muthappa, convener, Appachettolanda Hockey Festival.
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An interesting feature of the festival is that both men women take part in the matches and there is no restriction on age. The only rule for forming a team is that all members must be from the same family and can include children and grown-ups from both genders. Young boys and girls, fathers, mothers, uncles, professionals, and even former Olympian heroes are all players. The women have the choice of playing for their in-laws’ team or their parents’ team. There have been instances when three generations of players have played together in a single match.
The festival is also ideal for talent spotting. Sometimes, officials from the Sports Authority of India arrive here to select players who are then offered training and equipment. Some of them have gone on to become state and national players. Plans are afoot to set up a hockey stadium to offer more facilities to budding players from the district. It is heartening that there is a growing interest among the younger generation in the hockey festival. But there is a need for more stadiums and turfs to facilitate more players to practise regularly.
Schedule of the hockey festival: General Thimmaiah Stadium, Napoklu, from March 18 to April 10.
Misty Woods Resort is an ideal place to stay to cover the hockey festival as it is within driving distance from the venue.
All pics by Susheela Nair.
Susheela Nair is an independent food, travel and lifestyle writer and photographer contributing articles, content and images to several national publications besides organising seminars and photo exhibitions. Her writings span a wide spectrum which also includes travel portals and guide books, brochures and coffee table books.
source: http://www.thenewsminute.com / The News Minute / Home> Features> Sports & Culture / by Susheela Nair / March 27th, 2023
The work to develop the first biodiversity park of the state was launched in Harangi, by laying the foundation stone on Friday.
Legislator Appachu Ranjan, who conducted the ‘bhoomipooja’ for the biodiversity park work, said, “India is the biggest exporter of medicinal herbs. The new park will help us.”
He said that a medicinal herbal park will also be opened in Bhagamandala soon.
“Medicinal plants are needed to cure diseases. Also, the environment will be healthy if there is enough greenery,” he pointed out.
Karnataka Biodiversity Board chairperson Napanda Ravi Kalappa, who presided over the ceremony in Harangi, said that a master plan of building a model medicinal garden in the district was readied by the Board. The park is also being launch to conserve the richness of the flora of Kodagu, he added.
“The Karnataka Biodiversity Board intends to establish similar parks in every panchayat of Kodagu. The Coorg Mandarin used to be an exclusive plant to Kodagu, but is virtually not to be found anywhere now. Research is now being conducted to promote this species,” Kalappa said.
Projects totalling Rs 2000 crore were inaugurated by the CM at a ceremony in Madikeri, which was attended by beneficiaries of the district.
Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai. (Photo | Express)
Madikeri :
“Kodagu will be included in the international tourism map and plans are in place to ensure the same,” said Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai in Madikeri. He declared to extend free electricity to the irrigation pump sets, of up to 10 HP, installed across coffee estates in Kodagu.
Inaugurating various projects at a ceremony in Gandhi Maidan, he said, “Rs 100 crore has been released to the district under a special package in the state budget. Rs 10 crore has been sanctioned for the development of the Kodava-speaking community. The state has also granted seven acres of land to the Kodava community in Bengaluru.” Projects totalling Rs 2000 crore were inaugurated at the ceremony which was attended by beneficiaries of the district.
The Chief Minister said that plans are being laid out to put Kodagu on the international tourism maps. “A plan similar to Mysuru Tourism Circuit will take shape in Kodagu shortly,” he confirmed.
He opined that the district has received increased funds from the central and state governments. “This year, Rs 132 crore has been released as compensation amount to the farmers of Kodagu,” he said. He explained that the state government is working towards the overall development of all the communities.
“Various schemes including the Kisan Samman Yojana have recorded successful implementation. Scholarships have been released to the children of the farmers, who are the nation’s strength. The work of the BJP government is speaking for itself,” he said.
He explained the various projects aimed at empowering women and called the guarantee card scheme of the Congress a bluff. “One can cheat someone a few times. But they cannot cheat people all the time. The guarantee card is bogus and is similar to a visiting card,” he mocked.
Handing over cheques to a few beneficiaries of the government schemes at the ceremony, he sought the support of the people for the BJP.
While the congregation with the beneficiaries had to be inaugurated by CM at 11.30 am on Saturday, the same was delayed as Bommai arrived in the district by 3.00 pm. He, however, apologised stating that the visit was delayed due to the ongoing PUC examination at the college located close to the function venue.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / March 18th, 2023
Sportiqo, a blockchain-based fantasy sports platform has announced ace Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa as their brand ambassador. Sportiqo marked the beginning of its operations in India in the month of February and so far, amassed 32,000 active users owing to its beta launch. The stylish batter from Karnataka, Robin is a generational talent, wanted by every cricket league in the world. Uthappa was a part of the Indian squad which won the ICC World T20 in 2007. He is known for his masterful batting performances and his great impact on his team’s success.
Speaking on the association, Robin Uthappa said, “Sportiqo is the perfect platform where I am able to find a cohesive link between sports and technology. The stock market is something that is often portrayed as being meant for a particular segment of the audience but with Sportiqo sports fans across age groups would not only be able to learn how the stock markets work but at the same time be able to use their sporting knowledge and skills to do it in a fun and engaging manner.”
He further added, “Making the youth learn about investing and trading using cricket is a great idea. India needs creative options to improve the financial literacy of the masses and I am glad that Sportiqo is addressing that gap. I am proud to be associated with the platform.”
“We are delighted to welcome Robin Uthappa to the Sportiqo family as our new brand ambassador. He is one of the most exciting cricketers of his era. said Anindya Kar, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Sportiqo. “With his disruptive and instinctively innovative approach to his sport, Robin Uthappa embodies the same pioneering spirit that will drive Sportiqo to keep pushing boundaries in the sector.”
Sportiqo will also launch a host of digital campaigns with Robin Uthappa in the near future.
Sportiqo has so far, raised $1.25 million (Rs. 10 crores) in the pre-seed round from angel investors with a focus on user acquisition in its first phase post-launch. The cricket stock market platform is already live for the ILT20 League, and Pakistan Super League (PSL) and additionally, in the coming time, Sportiqo will add a portfolio of other sports and leagues as well such as the English Premier League and the Indian Premier League among others.
source: http://www.adgully.com / AdGully / Home> Marketing / by Adgully Bureau / March 21st, 2023
The State government, on Monday, issued orders appointing Vice-Chancellors for the newly established Universities of Chamarajanagar, Bidar, Haveri, Hassan, Kodagu, Koppal, and Bagalkot.
The names of the newly appointed V-Cs are Dr. B.K. Ravi (Koppal University, Dr. Ashok Sangappa Alur (Kodagu University), Dr. M.R. Gangadhar (Chamarajanagar University), Dr. Anand Sharad Deshpande (Bagalkot University), Dr. B.S. Biradar (Bidar University), Dr. Suresh H. (Haveri University) and Dr. T.C. Taranath, (Hassan University).
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home / by The Hindu Bureau / March 20th, 2023
Bopanna thus surpassed Daniel Nestor of Canada, who had claimed the 2015 Cincinnati Masters to become the oldest champion at the age of 42.
Matthew Ebden, of Australia, left, and teammate Rohan Bopanna, of India, hold up the men’s doubles winner’s trophy at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament.(Photo |AP)
Indian Wells :
India’s Rohan Bopanna became the oldest ATP Masters 1000 champion when he and his Australian partner Matt Ebden claimed the men’s doubles crown at the BNP Paribas Open here.
The 43-year-old Bopanna and Ebden, 35, defeated top-seeded Wesley Koolhof of the Netherlands and Neil Skupski of Britain 6-3, 2-6, 10-8 in the final on Saturday.
“Truly special. It’s called Tennis Paradise for a reason,” said Bopanna, who was playing in his 10th ATP Masters 1000 final.
“I’ve been, over the years, coming here and seeing all these guys win for so many years. I’m really happy that Matt and I were able to do this and get this title here.
“It’s been some tough matches, close matches. Today we played against one of the best teams out there. Really happy that we got the trophy.”
Bopanna thus surpassed Daniel Nestor of Canada, who had claimed the 2015 Cincinnati Masters to become the oldest champion at the age of 42.
“I spoke to Danny Nestor and I told him sorry I’m going to beat his record,” he joked.
“Winning the title, that stays with me, so really happy with that. ” It was the 43-year-old’s fifth Masters 1000 doubles title and first since he won in Monte Carlo in 2017.
This was the third final of the year for the Indo-Australian duo.
He now holds 24 tour-level trophies in his cabinet.
The Indo-Australian pair stunned defending and two-time desert titlists John Isner and Jack Sock in the semi-finals, while getting the better off Canadian singles stars Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov in the quarters.
Bopanna and Ebden had defeated Rafael Matos and David Vega Hernandez in their opening match.
A former World No.3, Bopanna jumped four places to No.11 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Doubles Rankings.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Sports> Tennis / by PTI / March 19th, 2023
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