In Singapore, Kannada actress Varsha Bollamma, who recently enchanted viewers as Bhoomi in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, is enjoying some well-earned relaxation.
The curly-haired beauty shared new photos from her trip, showing off her bright curls and beaming smile while wearing a white shirt and black shorts. She won over fans with her carefree aura and natural charisma when she posed in front of Singapore’s national symbol, the famed Merlion monument, in one of the photos.
Varsha costarred with Sundeep Kishan in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, where he portrayed Basava, a desperate stunt double who steals a bride’s jewelry and becomes entangled in a series of enigmatic occurrences.
Next up, Varsha Bollamma has two great projects underway and is back to work. In addition to filming for Nithiin’s next film, Thammudu, she is also working on a Tamil film called Iruvam. Varsha never fails to captivate her followers with her presence and performances, whether she is on vacation or on television.
source: http://www.gulte.com / Gulte / Home> Photos> Actress / by Satya B / May 14th, 2025
Little Thomas, a heartwarming comedy-drama featuring Rasika Duggal and Gulshan Devaiah, has garnered significant recognition at the upcoming 25th New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF).
The film has received three nominations: Best Actor for Gulshan Devaiah, Best Actress for Rasika Duggal, and Best Debut Feature for director Kaushal Oza. The film’s producers, Ranjan Singh and Anurag Kashyap, are excited to showcase their work at this prestigious festival.
Excitement Surrounds Nominations
Rasika Duggal expressed her joy at being nominated for Best Actress for her role as Jessie Miranda in Little Thomas. The film tells the story of a seven-year-old boy who is determined to unite his parents and wishes for a little brother. Rasika stated, “I am grateful that the work is being noted and appreciated, and I am looking forward to the response of the audience when the film is screened at the festival.” She emphasized the importance of audience feedback at film festivals, noting that they often provide discerning insights into the work presented.
Gulshan Devaiah, nominated for Best Actor, shared his excitement about the recognition from the NYIFF jury. He expressed his eagerness to attend the festival and his hopes for winning the award. “I am excited and happy with the nomination that the NYIFF jury has considered me for as the Best Actor for Little Thomas,” he said.
Director’s Thrill at Recognition
Kaushal Oza, the film’s director, expressed his delight at the nominations, particularly for the Best Debut Film category. Oza, who has previously collaborated with Anurag Kashyap on notable projects, shared his excitement about returning to NYIFF after the world premiere of his short film, The Miniaturist of Junagadh. He remarked, “This time I am delighted that ‘Little Thomas’ has been nominated at the same festival for the Best Debut Film… What really puts the cherry on the cake is the nominations for both the actors as well!”
The film, produced under the banners of Luminoso Pictures, Civic Studios, Flip Films, and Good Bad Films, had its world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne last year. It has since been showcased at other festivals, including the Toronto Indian Film Festival and Chandigarh Cine-Vesture.
A Glimpse into the Film’s Story
Set against the backdrop of 1990s Goa, Little Thomas follows the journey of a young boy named Thomas, who longs for a sibling. The film’s synopsis reveals that Thomas believes the key to getting a baby brother lies in his parents sharing a kiss. With his parents frequently arguing and no longer affectionate, Thomas takes it upon himself to orchestrate the “yucky act” he believes is necessary to fulfill his wish. This charming premise sets the stage for a comedic exploration of family dynamics and childhood innocence.
source: http://www.observervoice.com / Observer Voice / Home> Entertainment / by OV Digital Desk / May 14th, 2025
Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, a Badminton player of International repute, was felicitated by the organisers of Tambaram Badminton Premier League (TBPL) at Chennai recently for his contributions to the field of badminton for the past 45 years.
A six-time National Champion, Arun has won silver and bronze medals at the World Senior Badminton Championships held at Kaula Lumpur (Malaysia) and Sophia (Bulgaria) respectively.
A native of Nelji, close to Napoklu in Kodagu, Arun Poovaiah is presently based in Bengaluru and is involved in coaching budding Badminton players.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 13th, 2025
Karisma Aiyappa (centre) was crowned ‘Mrs. Bharat California 2025’ by Mydream TV USA at an event held at California recently.
Karisma, a HR/logistics professional in Silicon Valley, is a former State-level athlete and a passionate dancer.
Picture above shows Karisma walking the ramp in the traditional Kodava attire
A native of South Kodagu and daughter of Poilengada P. Machamma and late Alemanda Aiyappa, residents of Kuvempunagar in Mysuru, Karisma is married to Abhishek, an employee of Microsoft, Bay Area, California, USA.
Karisma’s participation in various Coorg events in the USA showcases her commitment to her heritage.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Photo News / May 13th, 2025
Over 150 tribes from Jenukuruba, Betta Kuruba, Yarava and Paniya communities have occupied the forest land in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, demanding implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
The tribals talking to forest officials in the Nagarahole Tiger ReservePhoto | Special Arrangement
Madikeri :
The 52 tribal families who entered the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve claiming land rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) continue to stay put inside the forest as a way of protest. Meanwhile, the forest department is urging them to vacate, citing legal and implementation hurdles.
Over 150 tribes from Jenukuruba, Betta Kuruba, Yarava and Paniya communities have occupied the forest land in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, demanding implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
However, as per the forest department, the status quo has to be maintained until July 25, following the SC order. Further, the foresters are unable to force eviction as 50% of the population of the tribes who have occupied the land consists of women and children.
“We have not occupied the forest land, but we are occupying our ancestral land. We were evicted from the place under the Wildlife Protection Act nearly 45 years ago. After this, we stayed in line houses of the estates in the surrounding areas and we have been living in pitiable conditions since then. Following the FRA Act, we saw hope of reoccupying our ancestral land lawfully. It is a historical injustice that we were thrown out of the ancestral land and we have suffered enough,” shared Jenu Kurubara Shivu, one of the tribal leaders and secretary of Nagarahole Adivasi Tribe Forest Rights Implementation Committee.
He explained that they have been protesting for the implementation of the FRA from 2009-10. “After we learnt about FRA, a total of 52 tribal families put forth applications for the sanction of the forest right,” he explained.
He added that a joint verification process was ordered in 2021 and in 2024, a joint verification by the forest, revenue, tribal welfare and panchayat raj was conducted.
“While the report on the joint verification had to be submitted in four months, the same has been delayed invariably. The joint verification has not been signed by the concerned department officials, highlighting the inefficiency of the government departments,” he alleged.
He explained that numerous protests were led in the recent past and they had been shunned by the officials who he alleged extended false assurances.
“But this time, we have occupied our ancestral land and the indefinite protests will continue until we are granted our rights,” he voiced. The tribes have occupied the forest land for the past five days and have built make-shift structures for their deities inside the forest zone.
Meanwhile, the letter to the CM from retired PCCF BK Singh urged the government to temporarily stop the grant of land under the FRA. Further, Singh has also filed a petition with the SC and status quo of forests has been ordered till July 25, preventing any new activities or changes.
He has urged the state not to treat FRA as a land grant as this would escalate wildlife conflict and urged the government not to sanction land for those who occupied the forest after December 13, 2005.
Meanwhile, the forest department is of the opinion that the applications filed by the tribes for FRA were rejected in 2011. As per the government records, Attur Kolli Forest, the land that is now in conflict under FRA, falls under the Nagarahole Range and as per the previous data, there was no signs of habitat.
While the tribes had applied for rights under FRA in 2009, the same was rejected in 2011. Nevertheless, the SC ordered for a re-verification process of the applications in 2019 and a re-verification was carried out in 2024.
However, the report of the re-verification data has not been submitted by the Sub Divisional Level Committee and the District Level Committee till date, which is being opposed by the tribes.
“The tribes have occupied the forest land and we cannot force them out as there are women and children. Further, status quo has been ordered in natural forests following a petition by retired PCCF BK Singh. The status quo must be maintained till July 25 until further notice,” confirmed Ananya Kumar, Nagarahole Division ACF.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Prajna GR / May 09th, 2025
Coorg oranges, a unique citrus variety with a distinct sweet-sour taste, hold cultural, economic, and ecological significance. Despite challenges like declining production and pests, their Geographical Indication recognition offers hope for revival, making them a valuable crop for farmers in Coorg.
Coorg oranges are vulnerable to pest and disease infestations, such as citrus greening, fruit rot, and the damaging effects of citrus psyllids, which degrade fruit quality. (Image Credit- Pexels)
Coorg oranges, a distinctive variety of citrus fruit, are believed to be a man-made hybrid of mandarins (Citrus reticulata). With their greenish-yellow color, tight skin, and sweet-sour taste, these oranges are a significant part of the agricultural landscape in Coorg, Karnataka, India. Historically cultivated in the region, they have played a vital role in local culture, cuisine, and economic development. Although their production has declined over the years, efforts to preserve this unique citrus variety continue through Geographical Indication (GI) recognition and conservation initiatives.
Significance of Coorg Oranges
Coorg oranges hold deep cultural, economic, and ecological significance, symbolizing prosperity and tradition in the Kodava community. Historically cultivated for centuries, they play a vital role in local cuisine, festivals, and agricultural heritage. Economically, these oranges were once a major cash crop, sustaining local farmers and fueling agribusiness, while also contributing to Coorg’s eco-tourism appeal.
Known for their unique sweet-sour taste, Coorg oranges stand apart from conventional varieties with their resilient greenish-yellow skin and rich natural oils, which enhance their aromatic flavor and make them an integral part of the region’s biodiversity.
Coorg Oranges Cultivation
The cultivation of Coorg oranges requires a specific climate and soil conditions, making Coorg’s Western Ghats region an ideal environment for their growth. Their farming involves careful propagation, maintenance, and harvesting techniques.
Soil and Climate Requirements
Prefer well-drained loamy soil with adequate organic matter.
Thrive in the moderate temperatures and high humidity of Coorg.
Rainfall between 1,500 to 2,500 mm annually is ideal for their growth.
Propagation Methods
Primarily propagated through grafting, ensuring genetic consistency and quality.
Requires regular pruning to maintain productivity.
Proper spacing and irrigation enhance yield and fruit quality.
Harvesting Season
The oranges mature between November and January, marking the harvest period.
Farmers pick fruits when they are firm, full-sized, and greenish-yellow.
Post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Challenges
Coorg oranges, once historically significant, now face several challenges threatening their continued cultivation. The shift towards coffee plantations over the years has led to a decline in orange orchards, and poor maintenance practices have further reduced fruit yields.
Additionally, these oranges are vulnerable to pest and disease infestations, such as citrus greening, fruit rot, and the damaging effects of citrus psyllids, which degrade fruit quality. Climate change also plays a role, with erratic rainfall patterns disrupting the growth cycle and rising temperatures affecting flowering and fruit development.
On top of these environmental and agricultural issues, orange farmers also struggle with market and economic difficulties, including a lack of support, incentives, and increasing competition from other citrus varieties that impact demand.
Coorg oranges are not just a fruit—they are a symbol of Coorg’s rich agricultural heritage. Despite challenges such as declining production and pest issues, the GI recognition provides hope for revival. Their distinct flavor, nutritional benefits, and historical significance make them an essential part of Coorg’s identity. Conservation efforts and renewed interest in traditional farming practices may help ensure the survival of this remarkable citrus variety.
First published on: 03 May 2025, 17:28 IST
source: http://www.krishijagran.com / Krishi Jagran / Home> Agripedia / by Kirti Narwal / May 11th, 2025
In the lush hills of Kodagu, a remarkable sporting and cultural phenomenon has reached a new milestone. The 25th edition of the Kodava Hockey Festival — hosted this year by the Kundyolanda family — has officially entered the Guinness World Records as the largest field hockey tournament, boasting an astonishing 3,640 players across over 360 family teams.
This year’s month-long edition ran across three grounds and finished late April.
What began as a dream in 1997 by the late Pandanda Kuttappa, a former hockey referee and State Bank of India employee, has transformed into an unparalleled spectacle of sport and community.
His vision was simple yet profound: unite the globally dispersed Kodava community through hockey — a sport embedded deep in their identity. Kodagu, often called the “cradle of Indian hockey,” has produced over 50 national players and seven Olympians, making the festival a natural extension of local pride.
“This festival is about more than just winning or losing,” Pandanda K. Bopanna, president of the Kodava Hockey Academy and son of the founder, told The Hindu newspaper.
“It’s about keeping our culture alive, connecting generations, and celebrating our heritage.”
This year’s silver jubilee celebrations were extra special. According to the official Guinness World Records entry, the event was recognised for having the most field hockey players in a tournament, overtaking all previous records.
“We have a rich tradition of serving the Armed forces. The British were already playing hockey and they found that the Kodavas had taken to the sport well. With a little bit of encouragement, the sport caught on,” says Navin Poonacha Kanganda, who has promoted the festival in the digital space, told Red Bull a few years ago.
A women’s tournament featuring 30 teams was introduced for the first time, symbolising the progressive spirit of the Kodava community. The festival torch — akin to the Olympic flame — was ceremoniously carried to the ancestral Ainmanes of past host families, reinforcing the powerful links between tradition and sport.
The Deccan Herald captured the festival’s atmosphere, describing the grounds as “a place where hockey sticks clash as fiercely as family pride, amid a carnival of Kodava culture.”
Traditional Kodava attire, food stalls, cultural performances, cyclothons, and shooting competitions lend the event the feel of a grand village fair — with hockey at its heart.
From humble beginnings in the small village of Karada with just 60 teams, the festival has grown into a massive undertaking requiring three specially-prepared mud fields, an effort largely borne by the host families.
“Despite international recognition, the festival struggles with basic sports infrastructure,” Bopanna noted. “The government must do more — a permanent hockey stadium in Kodagu would honour the festival’s contribution to Indian hockey.”
For the Kodavas, the festival is more than a sporting event.
As Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah, president of the Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy, put it: “It’s a reunion, a business hub, a marriage bureau, and a cultural festival all rolled into one.”
The clatter of sticks and laughter of reunited families echo a truth that Pandanda Kuttappa knew all along: hockey, for the Kodavas, is life itself.
source: http://www.thehockeypaper.co.uk / The Hockey Paper / Home> Features / by Hockey Paper Staff / May 06th, 2025
Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja presiding over the district disaster management authority meeting in Madikeri on Friday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja on Friday directed nodal officers and engineers concerned to take necessary precautionary measures for monsoon preparedness.
He was speaking while presiding over the district disaster management authority meeting, held at his office in Madikeri.
The Deputy Commissioner said monsoon is likely to begin in June, and precautionary measures must be taken to prevent disasters caused by heavy rainfall.
Mr. Venkataraja stressed the importance of ensuring that there is no loss of human or animal life during the monsoon.
Nodal officers have already been appointed and must take necessary measures within their respective jurisdictions, with extra vigilance in sensitive areas, he told the meeting.
Fire and emergency services personnel must gear up to safeguard people in flood-prone areas and coordinate with the National Disaster Response Force teams during the season, he added.
Officials from the Department of Health and Family Welfare were told to stock necessary medicines and raise awareness to prevent the outbreak of communicable diseases. The Deputy Commissioner instructed engineers from the Public Works and Panchayat Raj Departments to repair roads in their jurisdiction.
Additional Deputy Commissioner R. Aishwarya, Additional Superintendent of Police Dinesh Kumar, and other district and taluk-level officials were present.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / May 09th, 2025
The Kodava Students Association (KSA), Mysuru, recently organised a hockey tournament at Chamundi Vihar Stadium, in Nazarbad, featuring 26 teams.
The two-day event showcased the commitment and unity of Kodava students pursuing higher education in Mysuru.
The tournament commenced on May 3 at 11 am in the presence of Ponjanda Ganapathy, President of Mysuru Kodava Samaja; Jammada Ayyanna, Treasurer of Jabhboomi Charitable Trust and Dr. Mathanda Aiyappa, Director of Brindavan Hospital.
KSA President Motteyanda Ishani Kuttappa presided.
During the ceremony, Jammada Ayyanna briefed the gathering on the ‘5-a-side hockey’ format, while Dr. Mathanda Aiyappa inspired the youths with motivating words, stressing the values of sportsmanship and perseverance. Ponjanda Ganapathy reaffirmed the continued support extended to Kodava students.
The opening day saw 18 matches, followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals and the grand finale on day-2, each match receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.
Axilaratorz HC’ emerged as champions, while Bottiyath Naad, Kunda, finished as runners-up. ‘Blaze A’, Murnad, secured third place, with ‘Blaze B’, Murnad, taking fourth.
The closing ceremony featured a distinguished line-up of guests, including social activist Ajjikuttira Kanchan Ponnanna, wife of Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna; Puliyanda Sujatha Bopanna, Dean at Sapient College; Baleyada Karun Kalappa, retired Senior Vice-President and Regional Head of a leading firm; Manjeera Kuttappa, a Progressive farmer from Kodagu and Chendanda Shammi Belliappa, Director of Druid Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and also KSA Advisor.
Kanchan Ponnanna delivered an inspiring address to the students, while Baleyada Karun Kalappa underscored the importance of balancing sports with academics. He urged the younger generation to consider careers in civil services, highlighting the Kodava community’s under-representation. Puliyanda Sujatha Bopanna also shared motivating insights.
Chendanda Shammi Belliappa commended the KSA team for their dedication and efforts to keep the sport of hockey alive in Mysuru. He thanked contributors such as R. Ashok (Mysore University Hockey Coach), Boliyadira Chetan Subbaiah, Muckatira Karthik Nanjappa, Mandepanda Kripan, and others for their support.
In recognition of outstanding achievements, Mandepanda Jasmine Kaveramma, CEO of Growthzone Company, UAE, and Monnanda Tasmai Kariappa, professional motorcycle racer, were felicitated.
Mookonda Sanjana proposed the vote of thanks, while Ajjetira Vikram provided engaging match commentary. The tournament was seamlessly coordinated by KSA’s Hon. Secretary, Mandetira Degul Ganapathy.
KSA Committee Members
The following students have been elected as KSA Committee Members: President – Motteyanda Ishani Kuttappa, Vice-President – Theetharamada Thanush Ganapathy, Hon. Secretary – Mandetira Degul Ganapathy, Joint Secretary – Mookonda Sanjana Damayanthi, Treasurer – Allaranda Kariappa, Joint Treasurer – Puchimanda Dipshika Daychamma, Cultural Heads: Kundyolanda Aiyappa (Amakka) and Kaliyanda Richa Poovamma (Pommakka).
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 07th, 2025
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