Category Archives: Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg

Youngster Abhin Rai from Kodagu emerges as champion of Indian National Rally Championship

Abhin was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally.

Abhin Rai (centre) awarded the Rising Star trophy at Kodagu; Abhin Rai in action during the INRC rally. (Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

A youngster from Kodagu is emerging as the favorite driver in the motor rally world even as he was declared the National Champion 2023 at the Indian National Rally Championship. Abhin Rai, a 24-year-old motor enthusiast from the district, shares his dream and experience at the recent rally.

Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) is a pan-India rally championship that was held across six stages this year. The rally began at Arunachal Pradesh and then was held at Chennai, Coimbatore, Kodagu, and Bengaluru.

Abhin enthusiastically took part in this rally and has emerged as the champion. He was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally. He also won the Rising Star award during the rally at Kodagu. 

“Ideal Racing has supported me throughout the rally and my Honda City was perfectly tuned by Amshad Pasha.

Each category has a different number of participants and they were over 60 in all. The overall experience was great despite facing technical issues in Hyderabad,” shared Abhin. He turned up first in three stages and fifth in Coimbatore. However, he did not finish the rally in Hyderabad due to technical troubles. Nevertheless, his unabated performance helped him emerge as the champion.

He started off rallying only in 2022 and he participated only at the K1000 rally last year. “I could not finish the rally then and it was like a test run,” he recalled.

However, in his second year as a rallyist, Abhin has made everyone’s head turn. “I started driving at a very young age and I drove at an autocross in a pickup. I later bought a race car without the knowledge of my folks and I attended races discreetly. However, after winning several trophies, I revealed my passion to my parents, who are now very supportive,” he added.

Apart from the national championship, Abhin has won 48 trophies in autocross even as he has bigger dreams for the sport.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 24th, 2023

Book On Freedom Fighters Pandyanda Belliappa And Seetha Belliappa Released

Siddapura (Kodagu):

“Soulful Sojourns: A Tale of Two Souls” — an autobiography on the lives of late freedom fighter couple Pandyanda Belliappa and Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa — was released at a programme organised  at Swarnamala Kalyana Mantapa in the town recently.

Speaking after releasing the book, United Kodava Organisation (UKO) President Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa said that Bommanda Savera Chengappa, granddaughter of freedom fighters late Pandyanda Belliappa, who is popularly known as ‘Kodagina Gandhi’ and his freedom fighter wife Pandyanda Seetha Belliappa, has scripted the book in English.

Pointing out that Pandyanda Belliappa, who had great concerns for social welfare, always  worked for the cause of the society, Manju Chinnappa said he is also considered as a pioneer in Co-operative movement in Kodagu. Elaborating on the contributions of the late freedom fighter in education sector, Manju Chinnappa said it was he (Pandyanda Belliappa) who got sanctioned the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College in Madikeri when Nehru was the Prime Minister. Stating that the two freedom fighters had made a mark in different fields, he called upon everyone to read the book in order to draw inspiration for doing social service.

‘Poomale’ newspaper editor Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah in his address, said that the younger generation should read books on such great achievers and draw inspiration from their work and lead a purposeful life.

The book author Bommanda Savera Chengappa said that he scripted the book for posterity to younger generation. Highlighting the achievements of her grandparents, she said that the book makes an interesting reading for everyone and draw inspiration from the freedom fighter couple.

Addanda Vittal Nanjappa, Col. Bommanda Dheeraj Chengappa, Tapas Devaiah, Neravanda Shanti Nanjappa, Kusuma Ayyappa, Pandyanda Vijay Belliappa, Field Marshal K.M.Cariappa Forum President Kandratanda Subbaiah, A. Thammu Poovaiah, Delhi Kodava Samaja President Machimanda Thammu Cariappa, Col. Mandepanda K. Ayyappa and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 24th, 2023

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival

Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival
 Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah unveiling the logo of the Kodagu Hockey festival.

Madikeri: 

In a momentous event on Thursday, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah unveiled the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival, reinforcing the deep-rooted connection between Kodavas and the sport of hockey

Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

March, April, and May are the months when the spirit of hockey comes alive in Kodagu a tiny district of the state with unique culture. The Kodava Hockey Festival, colloquially known as the ‘Kodava Cup Hockey’ tournament, stands as a testament to the unique relationship between the Kodava community and the sport of hockey. The festival, a friendly tournament held among Kodava families, is an unparalleled celebration of unity and sportsmanship.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during the logo unveiling ceremony at the Home Office Krishna, expressed his support for the Kodava Hockey Festival. The event was attended by Virajpet MLA A S Ponnanna and representatives of the Kodava society, marking the significance of the festival in the region.

The Kodava Hockey Cup, initiated in 1997, was the brainchild of Pandanda Kuttappa and the Kashi brothers, retired employees of the State Bank of India and first-class hockey referees. The objective was to foster unity among Kodava families through a shared passion for hockey. The inaugural ‘Pandanda Cup’ tournament witnessed the participation of 60 families at the Karada village ground near Virajpet, with Kuttappa shouldering the financial expenses for the opening ceremony.

Over the years, the Kodava Hockey Festival has grown into the world’s largest hockey festival, making its mark in the Limca Book of Records, the Indian equivalent of the Guinness Book of Records. The tournament is a unique blend of competition, camaraderie, and cultural festivities, making it a cherished annual event for Kodava families.

The festival rotates among Kodava families each year, receiving widespread support and participation.

Families eagerly anticipate this sporting extravaganza, with many in the army making special arrangements to attend the tournament. The Kodava Hockey Festival, with its rich history and traditions, is poised to create yet another unforgettable chapter as it strives to secure a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

As the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival is unveiled, anticipation builds for the upcoming tournament, promising to showcase the enduring bond between Kodava and hockey in a spectacular display of hockey prowess and community spirit.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> India / by Diganth Kengeri / December 21st, 2023

ASICS India Brand Athlete Rohan Bopanna and Actress Gul Panag Unveil the Official Race Day Merchandise for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024

Tennis player Rohan Bopanna & Bollywood actress Gul Panag during the launch

Bangalore :

ASICS, the Japanese sportswear brand, today launched the limited-edition merchandise for Asia’s most prestigious Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. ASICS Brand Athlete Mr. Rohan Bopanna along with actress & avid runner Ms. Gul Panag unveiled the new collection at ASICS store on Linking Road in Mumbai.

The vibrant design of this collection by ASICS conveys a strong story of energy, persistence and passion for running. The Gel Kayano™ 30 Limited Edition shoes are designed with a unique blend of colors like Electric Blue/Aquarium for Men and White Sun Coral for Women, to appeal both male and female runners.

The specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 running shoe has Mumbai 2024 emblazoned on the side. The shoe provides maximum comfort and style reflecting Mumbai’s colorful culture. The GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoes is equipped with advanced features like a 4D Guidance System for stability and FF BLASTTM PLUS ECO cushioning for softness, the shoes aim to energize runner’s every stride of their run.

The limited-edition race day t-shirt design shows the circular pattern that encapsulates the spirit of unity via the “Enso” motif from Japanese traditions. It is crafted in seven symbolic colours denoting various facets of life, the collection aims to bring all marathon participants together in a harmonious cooperation towards a shared goal. The t-shirt and shoe bring out the complete essence of the city of Mumbai and will connect and bond well with the runners of Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024.

Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South ASIA said, “We are delighted to have Mr. Rohan Bopanna and Ms. Gul Panag onboard to reveal our official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. Inspired by the dynamic energy of this city and event, our goal is to design apparel that empower athletes at every skill level to unleash their complete potential. This collection is a testament to our dedication in fostering a commitment to help individuals achieve their athletic goals.”

Commenting on the event, ASICS Brand Athlete, Rohan Bopanna said, “I am glad to be a part of this special day being a Brand Athlete for ASICS India and unveiling the official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024 is truly special. As an athlete, I believe having the innovatively designed gear that seamlessly blends style with high performance is paramount. These specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoe and t-shirt perfectly captures the vibrant energy of the city.”

Mr. Anil Singh, Managing Director, Procam International, said, “ASICS has been a longstanding partner of the Tata Mumbai Marathon and the Procam Family. They have continuously set new benchmarks with top-of-the-line event merchandise which are highly sought after by our participants. As we gear up for the 19th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, here’s a race filled with inspiration, determination and the beating heart of India in every step #HarDilMumbai.”

The TATA Mumbai Marathon 2024, is a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race and will be hosted on Sunday, 21st January. The event will flagged off from the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal.

The official TATA Mumbai Marathon merchandise will be available to shop on flagship ASICS stores across the country and online brand store, link – https://www.asics.com/in/en-in .

source: http://www.passionateinmarketing.com / Passionate In Marketing / Home> Article / by Passionate in Marketing / December 13th, 2023

Guwahati Masters 2023: Ashwini Ponnappa-Tanisha Crasto clinch second Super 100 level title of the year

Guwahati Masters 2023: Ashwini Ponnappa-Tanisha Crasto clinch second Super 100 level title of the year

The Indian duo defeated Chinese Taipei’s pair in straight sets

Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto clinched their second Super 100 level title of the year as they packed off Chinese Taipei’s Sung Shuo Yun and Yu Chien Hui 21-13, 21-19 in the women’s doubles final of the Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters 2023 badminton tournament here on Sunday.

The second seeded Indians, who had finished runners-up in the Syed Modi International Super 300 event last week, began the final with an aggressive intent as Tanisha prowled the net with aplomb as the local favourites took the opening game with ease.

It looked like Ashwini and Tanisha could race through the match when they opened up a 12-6 lead in the second game. But the Taipei pair clinched five straight points to close the gap to just one point and the Indians faced a few nervy moments thereafter.

To their credit, Ashwini and Tanisha did not lose patience and were prepared to wait for their opportunities. Tanisha found a winner with a smart net push to warn them a match point and the Abu Dhabi Masters champions wrapped things up on the very first opportunity.

Later speaking about the match, Ashwini admitted that the drift did affect when they tried to push the shuttle to the back court. “There were some nervous moments but it was the support of the crowd that egged up on and I am happy that we handled the pressure well.”

This is the first time an international badminton event was being held in Assam since 2007 and the fans got behind the Indian combination during the 40-minute summit clash.

The pair will now head to Bhubaneshwar for the Odisha Masters, hoping to consolidate their position in the world ranking with another strong showing to end the year on a high.

In the other matches, Thailand’s Lalinrat Chaiwan and Indonesia’s Yohanes Saut Marcellyno bagged the women’s and men’s singles crowns.

Chaiwan upset fourth seed Line Christophersen of Denmark 21-14, 17-21, 21-16 in the women’s singles final before Marcellyno got the better of teammate Alvi Wijaya Chairullah 21-12, 21-17 in the men’s singles summit clash.

Second seeds Hee Yong Kai Terry and Tan Wei Han Jessica of Singapore clinched the mixed doubles title with a 21-19, 21-11 win over Mads Vestergaad and Christine Busch of Denmark while Choong Hon Jian and Muhammad Haikal of Malaysia bagged the men’s doubles crown with a 21-17, 23-21 win over Chinese Taipei’s Lin Bing-Wei and Su Ching Heng.

source: http://www.khelnow.com / KhelNow / Home> Badminton / by KhelNow / December 11th, 2023

CNC Urges Revenue Dept. To Make Changes In Software To Implement Order

Mysore/Mysuru:

The Codava National Council (CNC) that has relentlessly fought for over 14 years for the inclusion of ‘Kodava/ Kodavaru’ in the Caste Certificate, instead of ‘Kodagaru,’ has urged the State Government to make the  relevant changes in the software to fully implement the Government decision.

CNC President Nandineravanda U. Nachappa said that though the Cabinet has accepted the recommendations from the Karnataka State Backward Commission and ordered the change from ‘Kodava’ and ‘Kodavaru’ instead of ‘Kodagaru’, the order has not been fed to the computer systems. Still, the Caste Certificates are being issued as ‘Kodagaru’ instead of ‘Kodava’, impacting the cultural and social values of the Kodava community.

In a memorandum submitted to Kodagu Deputy Commissioner yesterday, Nachappa urged the State Government to ask the Revenue Department to make changes in the software for the change to be physically reflected on the Caste Certificates.

Mentioning the legal battle fought by the CNC in the Karnataka High Court, Nachappa said that despite the Court order in December 2021, the Government has not taken the genuine demand of the Kodava community for consideration and implementation. “This is an administrative and Constitutional breach where the aspirations of a small community have been ignored,” he said.

Nachappa has urged the Government to clear the software hurdle to fully implement the order so that the mention of ‘Kodava’ in Caste Certificates becomes a reality.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 07th, 2023

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100. Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28
India’s women’s doubles pair of Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa (Pic: File Pic)

Indian women’s doubles pair, Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto, jumped four places to reach world number 28 in the latest BWF rankings.

Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100.

Priyanshu Rajawat, who had reached the semi-finals in men’s singles, also gained a place to break into the top-30.


All other Indian singles players stayed static with HS Prannoy (8) remaining the top ranked shuttler from the country, followed by PV SIndhu (12), Lakshya Sen (17) and Kidambi Srikanth (24).

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty occupied the world number 2 spot, while Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand stayed at 19th position.

source: http://www.mid-day.com / Mid-Day / Home> Sports News> Other Sports News> Article / by PTI / December 05th, 2023

MLA A.S. Ponnanna Inaugurates Annual Get-Together Of Sri Kaveri Kodava Association

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

Get-Together Of Sri Kaveri Kodava Assn. Tomorrow

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

Bigg Boss Kannada 10: All You Need To Know About Wild Card Entry Pavi Poovappa

Pavi Poovappa is a popular Indian fashion model who started her career in the fashion industry in 2013.

Pavi secured the first position in Riz Fashion Miss Awesome Bangalore in 2016.
Pavi secured the first position in Riz Fashion Miss Awesome Bangalore in 2016.

Bigg Boss Kannada season 10, hosted by Kiccha Sudeep, is currently in full swing. The show has managed to capture the attention of the viewers, keeping them on the edge of their seats. The show has reached the halfway point, with exactly 50 days remaining. Meanwhile, Bigg Boss Kannada has a new twist for the viewers, where two new wild card entries are brought to the house by Avinash Shetty and Pavi Poovappa.

Today, let’s take a look at the professional and personal life of wild card entry Pavi Poovappa.

According to reports, Pavi Poovappa is a popular Indian fashion model who is known for her strong presence on social media platforms. She has walked the ramp for several prominent brands. The model is known for her style statement and her mesmerising photoshoots for different brands. She started her career in the fashion industry in 2013. Over the years, Pavi has emerged as an influential model. In 2015, she also won the title of Mr and Miss Flamingo Sandlehood Star contestant. She also secured the first position in Riz Fashion Miss Awesome Bangalore in 2016.

As a model, she also walked the ramp for numerous prestige events like Coimbatore Style Week, India Glam Fashion Week, Fermina Wedding Show, Prime Fashion Week, and Malabar Fashion Week.

She also participated in Miss Karnataka International and won the title of Miss Body Beautiful. In 2018, she appeared in the Kannada reality show Soppana Sundari, a modelling contest aired on Sun Life.

Talking about her life and family life, Pavi Poovappa hails from Kodagu, Karnataka.

She did her schooling at Lewa English High School in Bangalore. Later, she completed her graduation from Rajajainagar PU College in Rajajainagar. Her father passed away in 2006 and her mother’s name is Panikuttira Pannnamma. She also has a brother, Rakesh Poovappa. As per reports, Pavi Poovappa has been dating DJ Maddy since 2020.

On the other hand, the other wild card contestant, Avinash Shetty, is also known as Asthik Avinash Shetty. He is an actor and model, initially making his mark in Tulu cinema with the film Jai Tulunadu and later featuring in Kannada films like Power alongside Puneeth Rajkumar.

source: http://www.news18.com / News18 / Home> Movies / by Entertainment Bureau , Local News Desk / November 28th, 2023