The 5th annual get-together of Kodagu Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association (Mysuru East) was held at Chamundeshwari Convention Hall on Bannur Road in city on Apr. 11.
Association President Kanjithanda K. Aiyappa is seen addressing as Appachangada P. Motaiah, Kangra Achaiah, chief guest Kuppanda Achaiah, Kombanda Bheemaiah, Chandira Basappa and Igguda Chitra Subbaiah look on.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Photo News / April 14th, 2024
The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where Kodava players from over 300 families come together to play.
For the Kodava community of the small, hilly district of Kodagu in Karnataka, now scattered across the globe, it’s time to return to their roots for an event that’s deeply ingrained in their cultural fabric — the Kodava Hockey Namme (festival). This annual extravaganza brings together families from far and wide to celebrate their love for hockey and their shared heritage.
Organised in the small town of Napoklu, 21 km away from the district headquarters of Madikeri, this festival is no ordinary affair. Recognised as one of the largest field hockey tournaments globally, it has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records.
This year, the excitement is soaring as the Kundyolanda family takes the reins, transforming it into the ‘Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival’. The year’s event will be held from March 30 to April 28.
The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where players from over 300 local families come together to play. The sporting event has no bar on age or gender. The only rule of forming a team is that all members must be from the same family.
Dinesh Cariappa, convenor of the Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival (KHC), said, “This year, we aim to set a new milestone by hosting the largest field hockey tournament yet. It’s not just about the sport. It’s about fostering community spirit and giving back to our people.”
The organisers have introduced a range of initiatives this year, encompassing career guidance sessions, motivational speeches by experts across different domains, all geared towards empowering the youth. Additionally, free health check-ups, discussions on wealth management, and talks covering diverse topics such as defense, aviation, and agriculture have been arranged for attendees.
Ramesh Muddaiah, president of Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival, said, “We are hopeful that the Karnataka Government will extend its support to the hockey festival, just as it has done for previous editions of the event. Government backing would bolster our efforts to make this carnival a grand success.”
With 360 families slated to participate, the enthusiasm is palpable. The carnival promises much more than just hockey matches. A food festival showcasing Kodava delicacies and also other cuisine, matrimonial initiatives, and cultural events celebrating the rich heritage of the community are all part of the extravaganza.
“There are plans for educational sessions on traditional Kodava folk songs, popularly known as Baloo Paat, ensuring the preservation of cultural traditions. Apart from these, two marathons — 5 km and 10 km — are scheduled, selfie points dotted across the venue to capture memorable moments, creating lasting memories for attendees,” Mr. Cariappa said.
The carnival kicks off with much fanfare on March 30 with an inaugural match between the Indian Navy team and the Coorg 11 team. It sets the stage for a month-long celebration of sport, culture, and camaraderie.
The late Pandanda Kuttappa started the concept of the Kodava family hockey tournament, which later evolved into a significant sporting event and festival. “Mr. Kuttappa initiated the Kodava Family Hockey Tournament in 1997, organised by the Pandanda family initially, with the belief that harnessing the inherent affection Kodavas have for hockey could foster unity among families and the community,” Mr. Cariappa explained.
From the last one decade, the tournament has emerged as a platform for the community members to discuss trade and business interests, besides scouting for marital alliances, according to Mr. Muddaiah. “In the first tournament, which was organised in 1997, nearly 60 teams took part. The format of the tournament was such that every year, one of the Kodava families had to host the event. Now, over 300 families participate involving 3,000 hockey players,” he added.
Preparation for the 2024 edition is underway at the Napoklu General Thimayya Ground, one of the town’s three mud grounds. Temporary bleachers surround the ground to accommodate approximately 30,000 spectators. Various amenities, including galleries, lighting, speakers, and display boards, have been installed.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshab Devaiah B / March 22nd, 2024
The Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru (KSYWM) has organised KSYWM Inaugural Cup 2024 Hockey Tournament on Mar. 3 (Sunday) at Chamundi Vihar Stadium in city.
Featuring eight men’s hockey teams from Mysuru, Kodagu and Bengaluru, the tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of hockey talent.
Also, an exciting women’s exhibition match is lined up to highlight their remarkable skills.
Dedicated to fostering the love for hockey within the Kodava community, this tournament serves as a unifying event and igniting a passion for the sport among the younger generation, says a press release from KSYWM.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / February 29th, 2024
Discover the new leadership team elected at the Annual General Body Meeting of Kodagu Gowda Samaja in Mysuru, signaling a promising future for the community.
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In the heart of Mysuru, a significant gathering took place that not only celebrated the rich heritage of the Kodagu Gowda community but also marked the beginning of a new chapter. The Kodagu Gowda Samaja, nestled in Railway Layout, Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, recently convened its Annual General Body Meeting, a beacon of unity and progress for its members. The meeting was more than a mere assembly; it was a testament to the community’s resilience and commitment to collective prosperity.
The highlight of the event was the unanimous election of a new set of office-bearers, poised to steer the Samaja through 2023-24 and 2024-25. Kombarana Basappa emerged as the President, a figure of considerable esteem within the community. Alongside him, Kudupaje Dr. Chandrashekar was elected Vice-President, with Ponnetti Nanda taking on the role of Honorary Secretary. The team was rounded off with Nadumane S. Chengappa as Joint Secretary and Naduvatteera G. Lakshmana as Treasurer. Directors such as Pattada Shivakumar and Hosur G. Raghava, among others, were also elected, each bringing their unique skills and vision to the table.
The meeting, presided over by the outgoing Samaja President Thotambylu Manohar, was not just about elections. It served as a platform for reflection, celebration, and planning. The leadership transition signifies more than a change of guards; it embodies the community’s aspiration for growth and unity. The elected members, each with their distinct background and expertise, underscore the community’s diverse yet cohesive nature.
As the Kodagu Gowda Samaja embarks on this new journey under its freshly elected leadership, there’s a palpable sense of optimism among its members. The community, with its deep-rooted traditions and forward-looking outlook, stands on the cusp of a transformative era. The leadership’s vision for the future, coupled with the collective will of its members, promises to usher in a period of unparalleled growth and unity.
In essence, the recent Annual General Body Meeting of the Kodagu Gowda Samaja in Mysuru was more than a procedural event; it was a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of unity, and a step towards a promising future. With a new leadership team at the helm, the community looks set to navigate the challenges of the modern world while staying true to its rich cultural legacy.
source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com / BNN / Home> India> Local News / by Rafia Tasleem / February 26th, 2024
California’s Bay Area:
The Kodava community came together in the heart of California’s Bay Area for the annual convention, ‘Namme by the Bay’ from Sept. 1 to Sept. 3.
The festivities commenced with an informal ‘meet the hosts’ gathering on the evening of Sept. 1 at the elegant Hotel Cabana Suites in Palo Alto, CA, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend filled with camaraderie and cultural immersion.
On Sept. 2, a pre-convention event unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of the Elliston Winery in Sunol, featuring a surprise flash mob performance. The night culminated in joyous dancing to the tunes of traditional ‘Kodava Valaga.’
While some guests embarked on an invigorating morning hike organised by local Kodava families on Sept. 2, others enjoyed a post-hike BBQ. For those eager to explore the beauty of San Francisco, an organised tour was on offer.
The main event, held on Sept. 3 at the Los Altos Community Centre, saw men donning the traditional Kodava attire ‘Kupya-chale,’ while women added a touch of Kodava elegance with colourful sarees.
The venue was transformed to capture the essence of Kodava culture, with enchanting decorations centered around the unique ‘Namme’ theme. The stage backdrop artfully depicted the essence of three prominent Kodava festivals — Kailpodh, Puthari and Cauvery Sankramana.
The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the ‘Baalo Paat.’ Dimpu Pasura, the event’s host, collaborated with local children to present a captivating cultural programme. Local Kodava children began with a devotional rendition of the ‘Kaveramme’ song, followed by an opening act by Chethan Bachamada and Pallavi Joyappa.
Priya Pattada extended a warm welcome, followed by a message about preserving the Kodava community from Col. (Retd.) Cheppudira P. Muthanna, who travelled from Kodagu to attend the convention.
The evening unfolded with a dance performance by local Kodava children, followed by a spirited ‘Bolakaat’ performance by the men. The highlight was a mesmerising dance by the ladies. A video message from prominent Kodavas representing the military, sports and show business played during the opening, offering their best wishes for the event’s success.
Overall, the event fostered hope and unity among the Kodava community worldwide. Looking ahead, the next convention in 2024 is eagerly anticipated in Chicago.
First-ever entrepreneur event
As part of the convention, the first ever entrepreneur event, led by Gana Pemmanda, Vikram Puttichanda and Sahana Bheemaiah Bachamada (Thamane Nambudumada), was held.
Entrepreneurs Nischay, Prithvi Biddappa Kandanda, Nischal Ammatanda, Sahana Bheemaiah and Gana Pemmanda shared glimpses of their entrepreneurial journeys, successes and learnings.
Guests had the opportunity to showcase their businesses and network within the Kodava community, with plans to maintain the momentum through a newly created North American Kodava entrepreneurs’ group, fostering collaboration.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 28th, 2023
The valedictory of Kannambira N. Girish Kushalappa Memorial Inter-Kodava Association Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament for Mysuru Kodavas and Veterans Cricket Match has been organised at University Hostel Ground in Manasagangothri here at 3.30 pm on Jan. 15, under the aegis of Kodava Samaja Cultural and Sports Club, Mysuru.
Palandira K. Somanna, President, Sri Bhagavathi Kodava Souhardha Sahakari Niyamitha Sangha, Mysuru, will be the chief guest.
Ponjanda A. Ganapathy, President, Kodava Samaja, Mysuru and Kannambira Neeta Kushalappa (wife of late Kannambira N. Girish Kushalappa), sponsor of Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament, will be the guests of honour.
Kuttimada D. Muthappa, President, Kodava Samaja Cultural and Sports Club, Mysuru, will preside.
Earlier at 2 pm, an Exhibition Cricket Match by veterans (sponsored by Mrs. & Mr. Palandira K. Somanna) will be held at the same venue, according to a press release.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / January 14th, 2024
He was speaking at the inauguration of the Global Kodava Summit organized by the Connecting Kodavas Trust organization in Madikeri on Friday.
Madikeri :
“The Kodava community must unite to fight for the rights. Our ancestors fought to protect our land and culture. Let this fight continue. But fight for your rights and do not mock other communities or religions. Love every community,” called out Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the Global Kodava Summit organized by the Connecting Kodavas Trust organization in Madikeri on Friday.
Ponnanna appreciated the efforts of the trust in bringing the community together. He urged the trust to lay a foundation for the rightful voicing of the communities’ needs and said, “Let there be resolutions formed in this summit on what our rights are and what needs to be done to preserve the community. I will extend my full support to attain these resolutions,” he assured.
He opined that political maturity is needed amongst the community to attain support for the fight towards rights. He highlighted that the land problems concerning Jamma land, preservation of gun rights and ethnographic studies are the issues that must be fought unitedly under a strong leadership. He urged for the preservation of the land, nature, culture and relationships.
MLC Shantharam Budna Siddi, who was present as the chief guest, urged the youth to come forward to work for the society. He assured to extend his support in the legislature for the ST tag fight of the Kodavas.
Chethan Singhai, Chief Consultant of the National Curriculum-Ministry of Education, urged the community to focus on education and appreciate the values of culture. He called out to the community to focus on locality that he said is largely rooted in values.
Human activist Rashmi Samath called out to the youngsters to come back to their roots.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Express News Service / December 30th, 2023
Kodagu Gowda Samaja President Thotambylaya E. Manohar said that the new auditorium of Kodagu Gowda Samaja at Vijayanagar Railway Layout in the city will be inaugurated on Dec. 23 at 9.30 am.
Addressing media persons at Pathrakarthara Bhavan in city yesterday, Manohar said the auditorium built on the top of the existing building will be inaugurated by Adichunchanagiri Mutt Seer Dr. Sri Nirmalananda-natha Swamiji and Adhi-chunchanagiri Mutt, Mysuru branch’s Someshwaranatha Swamiji. Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simmha, MLA K. Harishgowda, former MLAs L. Nagendra and Vasu, President of Kodagu Gowda Samaja Okkoota Soorthale R. Somanna, former Corporator K.V. Sridhar and others will participate.
Kodagu Gowda Samaja Vice-President Kuyyamudi B. Ramappa, Honorary Secretary Kuntikana S. Ganapathy, Assistant Secretary Kaleramma M. Nanaiah, Directors Naduvettira G. Lakshmana and Kombarana U. Basappa were present at the press meet.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / December 20th, 2023
Mysore/Mysuru:
The annual get-together of Sri Kaveri Kodava Association, Mysuru East, was held at its premises in Vidyashankara Nagar in Mysuru yesterday.
Virajpet MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, who was the chief guest, inaugurated the programme by lighting the lamp.
Association President Puliyanda S. Devaiah presided. Kodava Samaja Mysuru President Ponjanda A. Ganapathy was the special invitee.
On the occasion, MLA Ponnanna felicitated Senior Members of the Association for their services to the causes of community, institutions, education and in general — Kuppanda M. Achaiah, Manipanda A. Muthanna and Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra Founder-Editor Kalyatanda B. Ganapathy, who received Hon. Doctorate from University of Mysore recently.
Sri Kaveri Kodava Association, Mysuru East, runs an educational institution — The Kodagu Model School — from LKG to X Standard at Vidyashankara Nagar here.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 04th, 2023
The annual get-together of Sri Kaveri Kodava Association, Mysuru East, will be held at its premises at No. 4, Kaveri Road, Vidyashankaranagar, Mysuru, tomorrow (Dec. 3) at 10 am.
Association President Puliyanda S. Devaiah will preside. Virajpet MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna will be the chief guest. Kodava Samaja Mysuru President Ponjanda
A. Ganapathy will be the special invitee.
Association Senior Members Kuppanda M. Achaiah and Maniyapanda A. Muthanna will be felicitated on the occasion.
Also, Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra Founder-Editor K.B. Ganapathy, who received Hon. Doctorate from University of Mysore recently, will be honoured as a special achiever.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / December 02nd, 2023
