Category Archives: Records, All

Kundyolanda Cup Family Hockey Fest Begins In Kodagu

The 24th Edition of Kodava Hockey Festival 2024, dubbed the ‘Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival’ and organised by the Kundyolanda Family, began with vibrant fervour at the General Thimayya Ground at Napoklu Karnataka Public School yesterday. Matches will be played on three grounds at Napoklu.

Pandanda K. Bopanna, President of the Kodava Hockey Academy, inaugurated the event by striking a silver hockey ball with a hockey stick. Virajpet MLA and CM’s Legal Advisor Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja — who notably played for Coorg 11 against Navy 11 — graced the occasion.

Other dignitaries included MLC Suja Kushalappa, author of ‘The Vanishing Kodavas’ Kambiranda Kaveri Ponnappa, Olympian Paikera Kalaiah, Lt. Col Baleyada Subramani and Akhila Kodava Samaja President Paradanda Subramani.

Originating in 1997 from the visionary insight of the late Pandanda Kuttappa, affectionately known as Kuttani, a former State league referee, the Kodava Hockey Festival has evolved over the years and is now managed under the auspices of the Kodava Hockey Academy.

Scheduled from Mar. 30 to Apr. 28, this month-long festival promises an exhilarating experience for sports enthusiasts and hockey aficionados alike. This time, over 360 teams from various families have registered for the festival. It serves as an annual spectacle, drawing together families from diverse locales to revel in their shared passion for hockey and their common heritage.

The registration of 360 teams marks a historic milestone in the tournament’s history, setting a new record for participation. In addition to the thrilling hockey matches, attendees can anticipate a multitude of attractions.

A vibrant food festival showcasing authentic Kodava delicacies alongside diverse cuisines promises to tantalise taste buds. Matrimonial initiatives and cultural events celebrating the community’s rich heritage add further excitement to the extravaganza.

Before the formal inauguration, a grand procession commenced from the Napoklu Sri Rama Mandira, leading to the main playground. The procession was joined by hundreds of Kodava men, women, and children adorned in their traditional attire.

Multiple folk dances, musical instruments and art forms, imagery and symbols from the Kodava community added to the vibrant atmosphere of the procession.

In honour of the festival’s 24th edition, 24 balloons were released into the air and 24 rounds of gunfire resounded, with each bullet symbolising a participating family. Before each gunshot, the names of the families were announced aloud, signifying their integral role in the festival’s legacy.

With a staggering total of 5,760 players, 730 coaches and managers and 40 technical staff actively participating, the tournament guarantees an atmosphere filled with intense competition and promises to create lasting memories  for all involved.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / March 31st, 2024

Bopanna-Ebden clinch Miami Open title, return to world No. 1 ranking

With the win, Bopanna surpassed his record created last year when he won the Indian Wells title at the age of 43, and also reclaimed the top spot in the doubles ranking.

Ace Indian tennis player Rohan Bopanna rewrote his own record to continue to be the oldest ATP Masters 1000 champion as he and his Australian partner Matt Ebden clinched the men’s doubles crown at the Miami Open here.

Continuing their fine run this year, the 44-year-old Bopanna and Ebden fought back from a set down to pull off an exhilarating 6-7(3), 6-3, 10-6 win over Crotia’s Ivan Dodig and American Austin Krajicek at the Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday.

With the win, Bopanna surpassed his record created last year when he won the Indian Wells title at the age of 43, and also reclaimed the top spot in the doubles ranking.

“It’s amazing. As long as you are doing well in these big events, it’s what we play for,” Bopanna said after the win.

“I want to do well in the Masters 1000s and the Grand Slams. It’s good to keep that record going and keep giving everyone else a run for their money,” added Bopanna, who won his maiden doubles Grand Slam title at the Australian Open earlier this year.

This was Bopanna’s 14th ATP Masters 1000 final. Overall, it was the veteran Indian player’s 63rd ATP Tour level final and 26th doubles title.

Bopanna also achieved a rare feat as he became the second Indian after Leander Paes to reach the final of all nine ATP Masters events.

Bopanna and Ebden, the top seeds for the tournament, tapped into their deep reservoir of experience to fetch the final six points of the summit clash. They had three set points on serve at 6-5 in the opening set but their second-seeded opponents warded off all three to force a tiebreaker before taking a 1-0 lead.

“It’s tough. These guys, they fight back in tough moments,” said Ebden.

“Last time we played them it was similar, it’s a bit of a see-saw. They return so well, make so many balls and we missed one or two shots when we were up [at the end of] the first set. They played a great tie-break, and then we just reset.” Bopanna and Ebden then staged a comeback as they broke their opponent early in the second set which helped them level the game.

Like the opening two sets, the tiebreaker was also fought on an even keel with the reigning Australian Open champions emerging victorious.

Following the Australian Open triumph, Bopanna climbed to the world No.1 spot in the ATP rankings, becoming the oldest player to do so. But slipped to the second spot in the doubles rankings after a quarterfinal loss at the Dubai Championships and a round-of-32 exit at the Indian Wells Masters.

But with the win here, the pair will be back to the top spot.

source:http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Sport> Tennis / by PTI / March 31st, 2024

Mahesh Nachaiah Is New Kodava Sahitya Academy President

Madikeri:

Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah has been appointed as the new President of Kodava Sahitya Academy by the State Government.

Mahesh Nachaiah, a native of Virajpet taluk, is a staunch lover of Kodava language                           and is the editor of Kodava  weekly magazine ‘Poomale’. Apart from being a journalist, he is actively associated with many organisations. The government is yet to appoint members for the Kodava Academy

The State Government has also appointed Sadananda Mavaji, a native of Dakshina Kannada, as the President of Karnataka Arebhashe Samskruti and Sahitya Academy.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 19th, 2024

Delhi R-Day IAF Display: Mysurean Punya Nanjappa To Fly MiG-29

Mysore/Mysuru:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up to showcase a breathtaking spectacle with a flypast featuring 51 aircraft during the Republic Day (R-Day) celebrations on Jan. 26 in New Delhi. This impressive lineup includes 29 fighter aircraft, 8 transport planes, 13 helicopters and one heritage aircraft.

Adding to the significance of the event, 15 women pilots of IAF will take command of various aircrafts during the flypast, contributing to the display of prowess and skill. Notably, among these accomplished women pilots is the extraordinary talent from Mysuru, Coluvanda Punya Nanjappa, hailing from Kodagu.

She will pilot the MiG-29 fighter jet, contributing to a captivating formation that will undoubtedly fill the hearts of the people in Mysuru and Kodagu with immense pride. Punya Nanjappa’s achievement represents a remarkable moment, highlighting the strides made by women in IAF and adding to the grandeur of R-Day celebrations.

Punya Nanjappa stands out as a fighter pilot, a remarkable distinction for a woman with roots in Kodagu, a region known for its deep association with defence forces.

Punya is the daughter of Coluvanda Anuradha Nanjappa, who served as a teacher at St. Joseph’s Central School, Vijayanagar and late Coluvanda P. Bala Nanjappa, who held the position of Manager at Prabha Theatre. The family hails from Chambebellur in Virajpet taluk of Kodagu district.

Punya’s educational journey took her through St. Joseph’s Central School in Vijayanagar for her schooling, Vijaya Vittala PU College in Saraswathipuram for her PUC and NIE, Mysuru, where she pursued her engineering degree.

Desire to join NDA

Despite her strong desire to enter the National Defence Academy (NDA), she faced an obstacle as, at that time, the NDA was not open for women. Unfortunately, her dream of joining the NDA remained unfulfilled. However, the circumstances have changed now and women can enrol in NDA.

Nursing the ambition of becoming a pilot in the IAF, Punya Nanjappa’s unwavering ambition to join the elite force was ignited during an Air Show at the renowned Mysuru Dasara festival where she witnessed the captivating displays of prowess in the skies. In pursuit of this dream, Punya enrolled in the National Cadet Corps (NCC), laying the foundation for her journey towards becoming a pilot.

Tough test cleared

Following her academic pursuits, she took on the challenge of the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), a gateway for officer recruitment in the Flying Branch (Short Service Commission only). It is a nationwide examination with 3.5 lakh participants. Out of the 1,000 shortlisted candidates, Punya Nanjappa secured her place among the 135 selected individuals, marking a triumphant step towards her dream.

Subsequently, she took part in the IAF Service Selection Board Exam in Mysuru where 160 candidates from various States participated. Amidst stiff competition, Punya Nanjappa emerged as the sole candidate selected for piloting responsibilities. Passing the AFCAT in 2018, she later cleared the interview and medical test and was selected as a trainee pilot.

Undergoing rigorous training at the Indian Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Telangana, Punya Nanjappa has now become a proud fighter pilot in the IAF, entrusted with the responsibility of flying the MiG-29 fighter jet during the Republic Day (R-Day)celebrations.

On Jan. 26, Punya Nanjappa will be the sole fighter pilot from Karnataka, soaring through the skies with her skilled piloting of the jet. This accomplishment not only brings pride to the State of Karnataka but also specifically to Mysuru and Kodagu.

The significance of this momentous occasion will be heightened as it will be witnessed by key dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of India’s Defence Forces, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India’s 2024 Republic Day guest, French President Emmanuel Macron.

The event is poised to be a remarkable showcase of India’s military prowess, featuring impressive displays by the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy.

Flying MiG-29 an unparalleled experience: Punya Nanjappa

My dream of many years is finally coming true and I couldn’t be happier to fly a MiG-29 fighter jet this Republic Day on Jan. 26. Sitting in the cockpit of a MiG-29 is an unparalleled experience and it brings me immense pride to be part of this extraordinary moment of India’s defence showcase, Punya Nanjappa told Star of Mysore.

Fulfilling my long-standing aspiration to fly an IAF fighter jet on Republic Day is a dream realised and I am overjoyed. My mother, too, shares in the pride of this accomplishment. I have conducted the rehearsals for the flight thrice, ensuring a flawless and awe-inspiring display, she said.

This Republic Day, with a significant focus on women’s empowerment by the Centre, numerous opportunities have opened up for women, myself included. Being part of this historic event underscores the strides made in empowering women and breaking barriers. I am grateful for the chance to contribute to this momentous occasion and showcase the capabilities of women in the Indian Air Force, Punya added.

No greater joy for a mother than this

There is no greater joy for a mother than this. What brings more happiness to a mother? I am absolutely thrilled that my daughter has been presented with this incredible opportunity. India has extended more opportunities to women on this Republic Day, to exhibit their strength and capabilities.

My daughter has faced numerous challenges to reach this point and even in the face of her father’s passing away, she remained resilient and did not succumb to the pain.

The aspiration to join the Indian Air Force had been ingrained in her from the very beginning and she was upset to leave me alone. But her passion to serve the country prevailed. I am filled with immense pride to see her fly the MiG-29. —Anuradha Nanjappa, Punya Nanjappa’s mother

Her journey has been far from easy

Punya Nanjappa is the embodiment of hard work and dedication. Despite the profound sorrow of losing her father, she stayed resolute in pursuing her aspirations and achieving her goals. This accomplishment is not just a source of pride for Mysuru but for Karnataka and Kodagu. Her journey has been far from easy, marked by relentless effort and a strong resolve to attain her objectives. Her unwavering commitment to excellence is rewarded. —Rtn. A.N. Aiyanna, Past President, Rotary Midtown

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / by Bapu Lingaraj Urs / January 04th, 2024

Kodagu-origin woman Charishma Kaliyanda elected member of Australian parliament

Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as parliament member for Liverpool.

Madikeri :

At a time when people of Indian origin are making a mark — right from the corporate head honchos to politicians — a young woman with roots in Kodagu has been elected to the Australian parliament. Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as the Labor member of Parliament for Liverpool.

Charishma was dressed in traditional Kodava attire while taking oath of office, drawing praise. “So excited to officially be sworn in as part of the 58th Parliament with some amazing colleagues. I’m honoured to represent my amazing community of Liverpool, and can’t wait to raise our challenges and celebrate our wins in this Parliament! The colours I wear today represent the official colours of NSW and I wear a Mysore silk sari, made in Karnataka (where I was born). I wear my sari in the Kodava style to honour my family heritage. Can you spot the Waratah brooch?! ????”, she posted on Facebook.

ಆಸ್ಟ್ರೇಲಿಯಾ ಸಂಸದೆಯಾದ ಕೊಡಗಿನ ...

Charishma traces her roots to Napoklu in Madikeri taluk.

On her Linkedin profile, she has has described herself thus: “As a registered occupational therapist and elected representative, I am passionate about working with individuals and communities to fulfil their potential and engage in the activities they want. I have over 10 years of experience working with young people, particularly in the university sector. Currently, I work closely with students and staff to build capacity in mental health and wellbeing at UNSW, in order to help deliver their Mental Health Strategy 2025. I build relationships with various internal and external stakeholders to facilitate access to and awareness of help for students experiencing distress at UNSW”.

source: http://www.english.publictv.in / Public TV (English) / Home> Karnataka> Latest> Main Post> States / by admin / May 11th, 2023

‘Bird Watching Brings People Closer To Nature’

Birder from Kodagu Dr. S.V. Narasimhan feted

Mysore/Mysuru:

Bird watching is one of the mediums to create awareness on environment conservation, said Dr. S.V. Narasimhan, a Birder and Author from Virajpet in Kodagu.

He was speaking after receiving felicitation at ‘A Day with Salim Ali’ event jointly organised by Mysore Science Theatre Festival Trust, Kutuhali, NCF (National Curriculum Framework) and SVYM (Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement) at Kiru Rangamandira here on Saturday.

“We Indians have always understood the importance of environment since we are worshippers of nature and see divinity in all living beings. Students should learn about nature and its conservation,” he said. A doctor by profession, Dr. Narasimhan is perhaps known to many for his passion for birds.

Bird-watcher N.R. Harsha said renowned Ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali had conducted a research on birds between November, 1939 – February, 1940 in Mysuru region and that the recent research had shown the presence of 419 species of birds in Mysuru region.

“Mysuru region has 191 local species and witnesses 129 different species of migratory birds in winter season. In addition, 53 variety of local migratory birds are also spotted in our region. Among the various species of birds found in the country, Mysuru contributes about 30.7 percent and Karnataka contributes 76 percent,” he noted.

On the occasion, Kannada and English version of the book  ‘Salim Ali – Wonder in the World of Birds’ (Salim Ali – Pakshi Lokada Beragu’) by Dr. M.C. Manohara/ Shashidhar Dongre were released. Artistes of Arivu Ranga staged a play while talks were delivered on ‘Salim Ali and Me’ by S. Subramanya, ‘Birds of Mysuru Region’ by N.R. Harsha and ‘Bringing Birds to People’ by Abhishek Krishnagopal. 

Mysore Science Theatre Festival Trust Trustee Shashidhar Dongre, CFTRI Scientist (retd.) Kollegal Sharma, Suhail Khadar of NCF and Praveen of SVYM were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 25th, 2024

4.66 lakh people in Kodagu eligible to cast vote

A part of Mysuru parliamentary constituency, as many as 4.66 lakh people in Kodagu are eligible to cast their ballot. Out of 4,66,154 voters, 2,37,660 are women, 2,28,478 are men, and 16 are others.

Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja on Monday said the election notification will be issued on March 28 and from the same day onwards nomination papers for the elections to Mysuru-Kodagu Lok Sabha can be filed. April 4 is the last date for filing the nomination papers.

Kodagu comprises of two assembly constituencies – Virajpet and Madikeri.

Madikeri has 2,36,562 voters, including 1,15,159 male, 1,21,394 female voters and nine others. In Virajpet, there are 2,29,592 voters, including 1,13,319 male, 1,16,266 female and seven others.

Kodagu has 9,076 voters who are in the age group of 18 and 19 years. Also, there are over 4,000 voters who are physically challenged. Kodagu has 546 polling booths. The district has 44 sectors officers, 21 flying squads, and 42 static surveillance teams.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Elections> Lok Sabha / by The Hindu Bureau / March 25th, 2024

Mathigodu Elephant Camp In Kodagu Now A Tourist Centre

The Mathigodu Elephant Camp, situated a short distance away from the Anechowkur Gate at the entry of Kodagu district from Mysuru, has transformed into a tourist attraction and is set to welcome visitors soon. Among its notable residents are the Dasara Howdah Elephant and the fearless  tusker, Abhimanyu.

Passersby along the Mysuru-Gonikoppal Road often halt their vehicles to have a glimpse these majestic creatures, albeit from a distance, as access to the camp was previously restricted for safety reasons and to maintain its exclusivity.

Capitalising on its popularity, the Forest Department has revamped the Mathigodu Elephant Camp into a tourist hub while prioritising safety measures. This camp falls within the precincts of the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, adding to its allure. The Forest Department has spent Rs. 1 crore towards its development.

In an endeavour to raise awareness about human-wildlife conflicts, concerted efforts are underway to educate tourists visiting the Mathigodu Elephant Camp about wildlife conservation. This initiative seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between human settlements and wildlife habitats, with the hope of mitigating such conflicts in the future.

Despite being recognised as an ideal habitat for the State’s finest elephants by the Forest Department, the Mathigodu Elephant Camp hadn’t been optimised as a tourist destination. Meanwhile, the Dubare Elephant Camp near Kushalnagar experienced a steady influx of visitors.

Picture shows the visitor pathway inside the camp.

Located inside a jungle

As the camp is located inside a jungle, there is no provision to open shops and hotels here to convert it into a full-fledged commercial centre. However, basic amenities have been meticulously arranged to ensure the comfort and convenience of visitors, including designated parking areas, feeding zones for the elephants and recreational facilities.

To ensure the safety of both visitors and elephants, a railway track barrier gate has been erected, effectively preventing proximity interactions. Additionally, the establishment of two designated parking lots offers travellers ample space to unwind. A dedicated walking path has been constructed, facilitating easy access from the parking areas to the elephant viewing zone.

This setup not only caters to the demand for elephant viewing but also serves as an educational platform for visitors. The place offers comprehensive insights into elephant behaviour, the significance of elephant camps, monitoring protocols, profiles of the famed Dasara elephants, methods of elephant capture, the role of Kumki elephants, feeding practices, distinctions between Asian and African elephant species and other pertinent information concerning the rehabilitation of elephants.

An information centre has been inaugurated, serving as a repository of knowledge on elephants and forest conservation. Equipped with valuable resources, it aims to provide visitors with an immersive learning experience, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts.

Development works worth Rs. 1 crore have been taken up including a safe elephant feeding area and an information centre.

Home for 17 elephants

Currently, the Mathigodu Elephant Camp is home to a distinguished herd of 17 elephants. Among them are Abhimanyu, Bhima, Mahendra, Ravi, Somashekhar, Masti, Ashoka, Kyaata, Chamundeshwari, Bhuvaneshwari, Srikanta, Abhi (Zoo elephant), Rama, Ekalavya and two forest elephants.

Under the leadership of Range Forest Officer (RFO) D. Devaraj, the well-being and welfare of these magnificent creatures are diligently overseen by a team of DRFOs, dedicated staff members and experienced mahouts and kavadis.

Picture shows Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna feeding watermelon to a tusker during inauguration of the elephant camp recently.

Equipment for surveillance

Visitors have a unique opportunity to witness first-hand the equipment utilised by the Forest Department for managing human-elephant conflicts and operations. Within a designated room, an array of tools is on display, ranging from tranquilliser darts and guns for administering them, to ropes essential for elephant operations.

Additionally, visitors can inspect sophisticated surveillance devices such as camera traps, thermal drones, torches and wireless communication devices utilised in conflict management operations.

This immersive experience will enable visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate procedures and tools employed by the Forest Department. By witnessing these resources up close, visitors can refine their perceptions regarding human-elephant conflict management, appreciating the complexities involved and the efforts undertaken to mitigate such conflicts.

Golden Howdah carriers

The Information Centre showcases a comprehensive list of distinguished  elephants that have had the honour of carrying the 750-kg Golden Howdah during the Dasara festival. Among these pachyderms, Jayamarthanda stands out, having shouldered the Golden Howdah an impressive 45 times.

Other notable elephants who have carried the Howdah are Vijayabahaddur, Nanjunda, Ramaprasad, Motilal Rao, Airavata, Rajendra, Drona (19 times), Balarama (11 times), Arjuna (8+1 times), Abhimanyu (4 times), each adding their majestic presence to the  grand procession.

Entry fee will be charged

The Mathigodu Elephant Camp has been enhanced to accommodate visitors, with all necessary arrangements for their convenience. Following a formal request to the Government regarding the implementation of an entry fee for tourists visiting the elephant camp, the Government has approved the proposal and granted permission. We have taken the necessary steps to prepare accordingly. —Harshakumar Chikkanaragund,Director (DCF), Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / by M T Yogesh Kumar / March 19th, 2024

Hockey festival celebration of heritage and sport for Kodava community in Karnataka

The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where Kodava players from over 300 families come together to play.

The Kodava Hockey Namme (festival) will be held from March 30 to April 28 in Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

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.

Fostering community spirit

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.”

Food festival to cultural extravaganza

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.

Kodava Hockey Festival has come a long way

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

Man Sentenced To 10 Years Jail For Assaulting Forest Guard

Madikeri:

The Principal District and Sessions Court has sentenced an accused to 10 years rigorous imprisonment after he was found guilty of assaulting a Forest Guard with a knife and injuring him (Forest Guard) seriously.

The accused, who was convicted, is Thimmaiah, a resident of Gaalibeedu Kaanekandi in Kodagu.

On May 11, 2022, when Forest Guard Appanna Rai was proceeding on Kalur Road, Thimmaiah, stopped Appanna and abused him for showing Galibeedu Gram Panchayat officials the land next to Thimmaiah’s house for waste segregation and allegedly assaulted Appanna with a knife severing Appanna’s left hand fingers.

A case was registered at Madikeri Rural Police Station and Station House Officer Vanishree, who conducted investigation, had submitted a charge-sheet to the Court.

Judge H.C. Shyam Prasad, who took up the case, heard the arguments from both sides and found Thimmaiah guilty and sentenced him to 10 years rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs. 15,500.

Public Prosecutor (PP) K.J. Ashwini argued on behalf of the Government.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 05th, 2024