Category Archives: Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg

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

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

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

Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024: Rashmika Mandanna Set To Create History As 1st Indian Presenter

crunchyroll anime awards 2024: rashmika mandanna set to create history as 1st indian presenter© Provided by Times Now

The anime universe is about to get a touch of Indian cinema flair as Rashmika Mandanna gears up to make her mark at the prestigious Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024. Scheduled to take place on March 2 in Tokyo, Japan, the event will see Rashmika as a presenter.

In a historic feat, the Animal actress will be the first Indian to represent India at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. Rashmika will join an illustrious lineup of presenters at the event, including American pop sensation Megan Thee Stallion, Dallas Cowboys star DeMarcus Lawrence, and wrestling phenomenon Mercedes Varnado, known as Sasha Banks.

Meanwhile, Rashmika was spotted at the airport as she jetted off to Tokyo to attend the coveted awards ceremony. Dressed in a green-coloured top which she paired with black pants, Rashmika acknowledged the paparazzi as she rushed to catch her flight.

The news of Rashmika’s representation at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards has sent waves of excitement through her fanbase and the anime community alike. Rashmika has often expressed her love for anime, citing Naruto Shippuden as her personal favourite.

The Crunchyroll Anime Awards is an annual extravaganza that celebrates the best of the anime world, from series to films and voice actors. It serves as a platform to honour the creativity and artistry behind this beloved genre, attracting fans and industry professionals from across the globe.

The Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024 will be held on Saturday, March 2.

On the work front, Rashmika has been shooting for Dhanush’s DNS (D51) in Hyderabad. She also has Pushpa 2 in her kitty.

source: http://www.timesnownews.com / Times Now / Home> Entertainment News> Web Series / by Times Entertainment Desk / February 29th, 2024

Wildlife conservationist KM Chinnappa, who revived Nagarhole’s tiger population, dies at 84

“Chinnappa is a shining example of how a tough forest official fought for tiger conservation against immense odds, inspiring others in the processs,” said Praveen Bhargav, Trustee, Wildlife First.

While locals and supporters called Kotrangada Medappa (KM) Chinnappa a hero and phantom of the jungles; poachers called him “The Devil” who stalked their hunting grounds.
While locals and supporters called Kotrangada Medappa (KM) Chinnappa a hero and phantom of the jungles; poachers called him “The Devil” who stalked their hunting grounds.

Bengaluru :

Noted wildlife conservationists and retired forest department official, Kotrangada Medappa Chinnappa (KM Chinnappa), breathed his last on Monday morning.

“Chinnappa (84) had been sinking. He had health and age-related ailments for a long time. He suffered a heart attack on Monday morning at his house in Kumatoor Village, Srimangala, Kodagu District. He will be laid to rest on Tuesday,” said his family members.

The news left a vacuum in the hearts and minds of many conservationists and forest officials who worked with him. Many conservationists and politicians, including leader of the Opposition, R Ashoka took to social media-X to express condolences. Ashoka in his X-post termed Chinnappa as a walking forest encyclopedia.

“President of Wildlife First since 1995, Chinnappa was one of India’s most respected and well-known crusader for wildlife protection. Chinnappa is a shining example of how a tough forest official fought for tiger conservation against immense odds, inspiring others in the process. With his extraordinary field craft, toughness and bravery, he led from the front. As a result of his actions, wildlife populations had dramatically recovered by mid-1980s with densities higher than anywhere in Asia,” said Praveen Bhargav, Trustee, Wildlife First.

Born in 1941, in Kumtur village near Nagarhole to a soldier father, who fought during the First World War, Chinnappa wanted to become a mustachioed soldier. He did become one but with a difference – he transformed into a gun-toting, frontline forest warrior.

Chinnappa joined the forest service in 1967 as a Range Forest Officer. During his career, he faced numerous challenges. He became a one-man army to revive the Nagarhole forest which was under threat from poaching, rice cultivation, encroachment, and timber lobbying.

While implementing a slew of measures initiated by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Chinnappa paid a hefty personal price. He was arrested, jailed and transferred. His home was burnt down. In an interaction he said: “What’s the use of just going to office. I led a colourful life.”

While locals and supporters called him a hero and phantom of the jungles; poachers called him “The Devil” who stalked their hunting grounds.

In 1988, one of Chinnappa’s guards shot a local coffee planter who had killed and eaten a Sambar deer. Chinnappa was accused of being the mastermind of the murder. He was arrested and jailed for 12 days. He was later cleared of charges and reinstated. In 1992, he was again implicated in the killing of a poacher. A frenzied mob ransacked the forest department’s buildings, assaulted staffers and burnt vehicles along with large swathes of forest land and Chinnappa’s ancestral home. Even though he was cleared of charges, Chinnappa decided to quit service.

However, even after retirement, his services were regularly sought by forest department officials to train young guards and young conservationists. Since retirement, Chinnappa trained over 2,500 forest staffers in anti-poaching operations and fire protection. Chinnappa reached out to over 1,50,000 school children, teachers, rural youth and villagers through nature camps, slide shows, talks, rallies and interactions.

In one such training, during patrolling, a young recruit asked him, what one should do when one encounters an elephant. Chinnappa simply said: “You need not do anything, what ever needs to be done, the elephant will do.”

Chinnappa was awarded with Karnataka Chief Minister’s Gold medal in 1985, the Wildlife Conservation Society certificate of Appreciation in 1988, and the Tiger Link Bagh Sevak Award in 1996.

He also received the ESSO and Sanctuary Life time Achievement awards in 2000 and 2006, respectively. He donated his entire prize money of Rs 7.5 lakhs from all these awards and recognitions to the cause of wildlife conservation.

Chinnappa’s long-time associate and friend K Ullas Karanth, who met him in 1969 for the first time said: “I’m deeply saddened to hear about the demise of my friend. He was the foremost wildlife ranger in all of India in terms of accomplishments. An inspirational figure, he was known for his bravery and courage of his convictions. He also had an incredible knowledge of wildlife.”

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Bosky Khanna / February 27th, 2024

Rishi’s Ramana Avatara to release in Telugu as well

Ramana Avatara pairs Rishi with Shubra Aiyappa and Pranitha Subash. The film is set to hit theatres shortly.

Kannada actor Rishi has not had a theatrical release since 2019’s Sarvajanikarige Suvarnavakasha. He was seen in cameos in not one, but three Kannada films – Mugilpete, One Cut Two Cut and Thurthu Nirgamana – and had a direct-to-OTT film Nodi Swamy Ivanu Irode Heege during the pandemic. His film Ramana Avatara has been ready for a while and Rishi was hoping to have it in theatres sometime in the second half of 2023, after his Telugu web series debut Shaitaan, but that did not happen.

Watch Rishi romance Shubra Aiyappa in the peppy number Rama is a Gentleman 

The team is now on the lookout for a release date, with April the most likely candidate, but what’s also happening is that Ramana Avatara will no longer be just a Kannada film. It is officially a bilingual release with a Telugu version also being readied, given Rishi’s new-found popularity in those markets following the success of Shaitaan and that he is now working on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s untitled 109th project as antagonist, along with Bobby Deol. Rishi also has another Telugu film in his kitty in which he plays the lead.

Rishi’s next in Telugu is period drama along with Faria Abdullah & Thiruveer

Ramana Avatara, by director Vikas Pampapathi, is a comedy that has Rishi play the title character Rama, whose post break-up venture sees him try something to stop the migration of educated youth from his village to the city. The film also stars Shubra Aiyappa, Pranitha Subhash, Anirudha Acharya, among others, and has music by Judah Sandhy.

Ramana Avatara: Lead actor Rishi’s transition from theatre to cinema involved a lot of unlearning

Rishi, who has just wound up work on a film called Rudra Garuda Purana, in which he plays a cop yet again after Kavaludaari, has been vocal about the need to deliver on what’s been promised in his films, so that audiences do not feel cheated when they watch it in theatres. “When I say that I have made an entertainer and that I would like people to come to theatres, I have to live up to that promise,” he had said.

source: http://www.ottplay.com / OTT Play / Home> News / by Team OTT Play / February 16th, 2024

Karnataka skier from 900-m altitude village wins three golds on 4,000m high slopes of Gulmarg

Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint

Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district won three golds in the Khelo India Winter Games on February 25, 2024. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda, from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, glides over snow slopes the way fish take to water. The athlete, born in a village only 900 m above sea level, won three golds by competing on the snow slopes at an altitude of 4,000 m in the Khelo India Winter Games here on Sunday.

The lean girl from the plains near the Cauvery in Karnataka has sparkled in the winter games with her stunning ski skills. She won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint. 

“It’s all about pursuing your passion. A girl from Karnataka winning winter sports in Kashmir is enough to talk about my passion. We have no snow in Karnataka. I have to work harder than those who compete from the Himalayan States,” Ms. Nanjunda said.

Passionate about mountains, Ms. Nanjunda was formally introduced to mountains when she summited Mt. Rudegera in Uttarakhand as a National Cadet Corps member in 2014. One year later in 2015, she worked through the freezing winter months for a basic course at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling, and managed to summit Renok peak.

Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district won three golds in the Khelo India Winter Games on February 25, 2024. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

“I work on my endurance at home by running every day. My physical activities puzzle my neighbours and friends at times. It does not stop me,” she said.

Ms. Nanjunda awaits the whole year for the winter months to visit Kashmir and hit the ski slopes. “Skiing makes me feel happy. Gulmarg is the best ski destination. I keep waiting for winter months to be here, as the place has the best slopes,” Ms. Nanjunda said.

International instructor certificate

She became a student of the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam, Kashmir, in 2019 and received an international instructor certificate in skiing in 2019. In 2020, she became a ski instructor with JIM&WS.

“Principal and the instructor at JIM&WS encouraged me to participate as a cross-country skier. I have participated in all the four editions of the Khelo India Winter games. I am happy that Karnataka has emerged as the number two State in the games this year,” Ms. Nanjunda said.

She is now preparing for the Asian Championship and Olympics. “I desire to represent India in the Olympics in 2026. India has never qualified for cross-country skiing,” she added.

The winter games in Kashmir are proving to be the platform for women, even from non-snow States of the country, to dream big in these sports. From mere four girls participating in the first edition of the winter games in Gulmarg, the number has risen to 20 this year.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India / by Peerzada Ashiq / February 25th, 2024

Gulshan Devaiah: Bollywood’s Action Maestro Embarks on Another Thrilling Venture

Explore Gulshan Devaiah’s evolution in the action genre, his upcoming projects, and his fearless approach to diverse roles that captivate audiences and critics alike.

Gulshan Devaiah: Bollywood's Action Maestro Embarks on Another Thrilling Venture
Gulshan Devaiah: Bollywood’s Action Maestro Embarks on Another Thrilling Venture

When Gulshan Devaiah burst onto the Bollywood scene, his unique blend of intensity and versatility immediately made waves. Known for his compelling performances, Devaiah is once again set to captivate audiences, this time in an untitled action series that promises to showcase his prowess in the genre. Following his acclaimed role in ‘Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota’, where his portrayal of a man with a dual identity left viewers and critics in awe, Devaiah is eager to push the envelope further with stylized fight sequences and an adrenaline-pumping narrative.

A New Chapter in Action

Devaiah’s journey in the action genre has been both exhilarating and transformative. His upcoming project marks his second major foray into action, a genre that demands not only physical agility but also a nuanced understanding of the character’s psyche. In conversations about his preparation for the series, Devaiah has expressed excitement about exploring new dimensions of action, emphasizing the importance of stylized sequences that add depth to the narrative. The actor’s dedication to mastering complex choreography and embodying the essence of his character is indicative of his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience to viewers.

Versatility Across Genres

Aside from his ventures into action, Devaiah has demonstrated remarkable versatility across a spectrum of roles. His portrayal in the Netflix series ‘Guns and Gulaab’ received widespread acclaim, showcasing his ability to navigate the nuances of complex characters. Furthermore, his upcoming role in ‘Little Thomas’ is anticipated to reveal another facet of his talent. Directed by Kaushal Oza and featuring Rasika Dugal, ‘Little Thomas’ is described by Devaiah as a ‘detox experience’, allowing him to explore vulnerability and innocence through his character. This diversity in choice of roles underscores Devaiah’s fearless approach to acting, embodying characters that resonate with audiences on a profound level.

Looking Forward

As the release dates for the untitled action series and ‘Little Thomas’ draw near, anticipation among fans and critics alike is palpable. Devaiah’s enthusiasm for his craft and his continuous effort to challenge himself are what set him apart in an industry teeming with talent. His upcoming projects are not just a testament to his growth as an actor but also to the evolving landscape of Bollywood, where action and depth coalesce to create cinematic magic. With each role, Devaiah not only entertains but also invites viewers to delve deeper into the stories being told, making every performance a memorable one.

source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com/ BNN / Home> India / by Rafia Tasleem / February 22nd, 2024

Former VC Prof. K.C. Belliappa To Release KBG’s Book ‘Life And Times’ On Aug. 6

Mysore/Mysuru: 

Prof. K.C. Belliappa, former Vice-Chancellor, Central University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, will release the book Life and Times authored by K.B. Ganapathy (KBG), Founder-Editor, Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra at  a programme organised by Samvahana, Mysuru, at Rani Bahadur Auditorium, Hunsur Road in city on Aug. 6 (Sunday) at 11 am.

Prof. K.S. Rangappa, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Mysore, will preside

Prof. C. Naganna, Retd. Professor, University of Mysore, will speak on the book.

Dr. M.R. Ravi, IAS,  Managing Director, Karnataka State Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC), Bengaluru, will be the chief guest.

Author K.B. Ganapathy and Publisher D.N. Lokappa of Samvahana Publications, will be present at the event.

On the occasion, the book (soft bound), priced at Rs. 350, will be sold at discount price of Rs. 200 at the venue.

The Publisher can be contacted on Mob: 99026-39593 or 95354-61948.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / August 04th, 2023