Category Archives: Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg

Three from Kodagu commissioned as Sub Lieutenants in Indian Navy

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Mysuru:

Kodagu, a region renowned for its extraordinary contribution to the Indian Armed Forces, has added another proud chapter to its legacy as three of its youth have been commissioned as Sub Lieutenants in the Indian Navy.

Kadiyamada Rea Achaiah

Sub Lieutenant Kadiyamada Rea Achaiah, a Mysuru-based native of Kodagu, has been commissioned into the Indian Navy and is currently serving aboard INS Sujata, a frontline patrol vessel.

Rea, an alumna of Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering (VVCE), Mysuru, completed her degree in Information Science. Inspired by a long-standing dream to serve the Armed Forces, she cleared the Services Selection Board (SSB) exams and joined the Indian Naval Academy at Payyannur, Kerala, on July 1, 2024. She was formally commissioned on May 31, 2025.

Rea had the distinction of being selected for both the Indian Army and the Indian Navy, ultimately choosing the latter. A multi-talented achiever, she is a former international Roller Speed Skater and has represented India in three World and Asian Championships.

She made history by becoming the first Indian female skater to win an individual medal in an international competition, claiming two bronze medals at the 18th Asian Championship in South Korea (2018). She has a medal tally of 155 golds, 28 silvers and 11 bronzes across various competitions.

Apart from roller skating, Rea is also a national-level ice skater and sailor. She recently won gold in the Indian Navy Laser Sailing Championship held at Karwar and secured gold and bronze medals in the Biangular Sailing Regatta at the Indian Naval Academy.  She is the daughter of Kadiyamada Arun Achaiah and Priya Achaiah of Athur village, Gonikoppal and residents of Vijayanagar 1st Stage, Mysuru.

Chiriapanda Atul Somayya

Sub Lieutenant Chiriapanda Atul Somayya, son of Lt. Col. (Retd.) Chiriapanda Vivek Muthanna and Asha, hails from Kanoor, Kodagu.

An alumnus of PES Institute of Technology, Bengaluru, where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering with distinction, Atul was inspired from an early age to join the Armed Forces. He was commissioned into the Indian Navy on May 31, 2025.

Areyada Chaman Poovana

Sub Lieutenant Areyada Chaman Poovana, son of Areyada Kiran Ganapathy and Beena, has also been commissioned into Indian Navy on May 31, 2025.

His achievement marks a proud milestone for his family and community and highlights the continued tradition of military service in Kodagu. Known for his dedication and discipline, Chaman looks ahead to a promising career in naval service.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 03rd, 2025

Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru to host Kodava Hockey Premier League 2025

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10 Teams. 3 Days. 1 Legacy

Mysuru:

In a celebration of heritage, athleticism and community spirit, the Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru (KSYWM) is set to host the Kodava Hockey Premier League (KHPL 2025) in association with Kodava Samaja Mysuru and under the aegis of Hockey Mysuru. The much-anticipated tournament will take place on June 27, 28 and 29 at the Chamundi Vihar Stadium, Mysuru.

KHPL 2025 will feature ten dynamic franchises — Coorg United, Kodavu Warriors, Pale Taluk, South Side Rangers, Team Kodava Tribe, Connecting Kodavas, Anjigeri Naad, Coorg Titans, Kakot Strikers and MTB Royals — who will compete in what promises to be three days of thrilling hockey action.

The grand player auction is scheduled for June 1 at ibis Styles Mysuru, the official hospitality partner for   KHPL 2025.

Office-bearers and Working Committee Members of Kodava Samaja Youth Wing Mysuru — President: Kotera Vedith Uthaiah, Vice-President: Pebbatira Dimple Danny, Secretary: Battira Bojanna, Joint Secretary: Appaneravanda Viharika Mandappa, Treasurer: Hanchettira Varun Nanjappa, Joint Treasurer: Kademada Shreyas Muthanna — seen during the KHPL 2025 logo launch.

Lending prestige and vision to the league is a distinguished panel of advisors including Anjaparvanda B. Subbaiah, Honorary Secretary of Hockey Karnataka and former Olympian; Konganda Dilip Biddappa, President of Hockey Mysore; Pandanda Bopanna, President of Kodava Hockey Academy and Kotera Muddaiah, Vice-President of Hockey Mysore. Mentoring the young talents are two accomplished hockey personalities — Bolliyapanda J. Cariappa, Coach of Indian Junior Hockey Team, and Karineravanda Somanna, a former Indian hockey player.

In a historic first for Kodava hockey, KHPL 2025 mandates each team to include one female player and two emerging players under 18. This progressive step brings gender inclusivity and youth empowerment to the forefront, ensuring 10 women and 20 young talents shine on the Kodava hockey stage.

For details, contact KSYWM

President Kotera Vedith Uthaiah on Mob: 88804-01206.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May31st, 2025

Karnataka govt organises ‘Jai Hind Sabha’ in honour of armed forces

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Bengaluru :

The Karnataka government organised a special event, ‘Jai Hind Sabha’, in honour of the Indian armed forces and facilitated retired military personnel in Bengaluru on Wednesday.

The programme was held at the Town Hall in Bengaluru, and it was given the tagline, ‘Jai Hind Jai Sena’.

During the event, senior officers who served in the Indian Army and ex-servicemen were felicitated. The families of brave soldiers who laid down their lives in service to the nation were also honoured.

Among those felicitated were the family members of late Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan (Ashoka Chakra awardee), Colonel Jojan Thomas (Ashoka Chakra awardee), Major M.C. Muthanna (Shaurya Chakra awardee), Major Ganesh Maddappa (Shaurya Chakra awardee), Captain M.V. Panjal (Shaurya Chakra awardee), Major Mohan Gangadharan (Shaurya Chakra awardee), Major Shafiq Mohammad Khan, and Colonel Ramamurthy (Sena Medal awardee).

More than a thousand senior army officers and ex-servicemen participated in the event. The Karnataka government had issued directions to organise such events across the country to salute the selfless service of Indian soldiers and stand in solidarity with them.

Addressing the “Jai Hind Sabha” programme, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that soldiers, farmers, doctors, and teachers are as revered and memorable as one’s own parents.

He praised the legacy of Indian soldiers. “Soldiers dedicate themselves to national defence with a spirit of sacrifice. The responsibility of protecting the country does not lie with the army alone, but with all 1.4 billion Indians,” he said.

He emphasised that India has never compromised on the principle of protecting the righteous and eliminating evil, and it never will.

“This is the commitment of every Indian,” Siddaramaiah underlined.

The Chief Minister made a significant declaration that no excise duty will be levied on army canteens by the state. He also assured that all necessary steps would be taken for the welfare of retired soldiers.

Speaking after felicitating senior army officers, ex-servicemen, and the families of martyred soldiers, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar said, “To support all ex-servicemen in the state, the government is considering the establishment of a separate corporation. This proposal will be discussed in the state cabinet meeting before a decision is made.”

“We are thinking of forming this corporation based on the suggestion of Mallikarjun, President of the Congress Party’s Sainik Cell. We are committed to the welfare of soldiers who have served our nation,” Shivakumar stated.

“It is a matter of pride to be part of such a significant event. On behalf of the Congress party and the nation, I extend my gratitude to all of you who have served our country with strength and dedication. The Congress party has always stood by the nation and our armed forces. This programme is a testimony to the fact that your sacrifices will always be remembered,” he added.

–IANS

source: http://www.thehawk.in / The Hawk / Home> India / May 28th, 2025

Q & A with Joshna Chinappa | Still smashing

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Thirty-eight-year-old squash champion Joshna Chinappa’s win at the National Doubles Championships shows she’s still in fine form.

Q. You recently won the women’s final at the National Doubles Championships alongside Anahat Singh. Do you have a long-term plan with this pairing?

Anahat and I were casually discussing the doubles and decided to play together. We will be playing the Asian Doubles Championships in Malaysia in June. She is a solid player, so it makes it easier and more fun.

Q. How have you modified your game with age?

I have a deep appreciation and respect for my body and what it has done over the past three decades for me to be able to play squash professionally. I definitely have to put in more work in terms of how I prepare for a game with my strength training, fitness, diet, etc.

Q. You’ve been playing squash for three decades now. How has the game evolved over the years?

The game has definitely gotten a lot more intense physically and you have so many different players with amazing skill to add to that physicality. There are so many tournaments happening all around the world and in India.

Q. What do you make of the next generation of Indian players?

There are a good crop of young players doing well at the junior and professional level. It’s so good to see about 6-7 of them playing the big PSA events consistently. I hope more juniors make the switch to go pro because that’s where the real test is.

source: http://www.indiatoday.in / India Today / Home> News> Leisure / by Pratibha Joy / June 10th, 2025

Devika Cariapa conferred with the Times of India Author Award

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Codanda Devika Cariapa was recently conferred the prestigious Times of India About Her Award for the Best Children’s Author (Non-Fiction) 2024 at a grand ceremony in New Delhi.

She won the award for her book, ‘A Children’s History of India in 100 Objects’ published by Penguin Random House India. The award sees over seven thousand entries across five categories with only four books making it to the final shortlist.

The book is a compilation of information and depictions of 100 objects that have significant relevance in Indian history from prehistoric times to modern-day India. The emphasis has been to capture India’s diversity through concise and descriptive texts and beautiful illustrations. 

Devika Cariapa has been the recipient of multiple literary awards for Children’s Literature including the Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar, the Neev Book Award and The Hindu-Young World Award.

She is the daughter of Lt Gen Biddanda Chengappa Nanda and Mrs Leela Nanda and wife of  Gp Capt Codanda Chitrajit Cariapa.

source: http://www.clnews.in / CoffeeLand News / Home> General / by CLN News Desk / April 12th, 2024

In their farm with five pet dogs, Booker winner Deepa Bhasthi’s husband celebrates in Kodagu

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While the literary world applauded in London, back home in Kodagu, her win was met with joy, disbelief, and a bit of solitude.

Deepa Bhasthi won the  International Booker Prize for her translation of Kannada author Banu Mushtaq’s Heart Lamp short story collection, in London on May 20, 2025. | Photo Credit: Deepa Bhasthi/Instagram

While Karnataka’s Kodagu-born writer Deepa Bhasthi celebrates a historic International Booker Prize win in London, her husband Chettira Sujan Nanaiah is celebrating in his own quiet way — on a farm, with five pet dogs, and congratulatory phone calls at their peaceful home in Madikeri.

On Tuesday night, Ms. Bhasthi, along with writer-activist Banu Mushtaq, was awarded the prestigious GBP 50,000 International Booker Prize for her translation of the latter’s short story collection, Heart Lamp. While the literary world applauded her in London, back home in Kodagu, the win was met with joy, disbelief, and a bit of solitude.

Speaking to The Hindu over the phone on Wednesday morning, Sujan Nanaiah — an artist-turned-farmer — shared his happiness. “She’s still in shock and joy. We spoke briefly in the morning. I couldn’t be there with her due to other commitments, but I’m extremely happy and proud,” he said.

Quiet life in Madikeri

The couple, who moved to their native Madikeri during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been living a quiet life on their farm surrounded by lush greenery. “It’s a simple life. We grow our own food, look after our pets, and enjoy being close to nature,” he said.

Mr. Nanaiah, who studied fine arts at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in Bengaluru, first met Ms. Bhasthi seven years ago at an art exhibition where he was a participant. What began as a friendship evolved into marriage and a shared life in Kodagu.

As calls poured in from family and friends, Mr. Nanaiah was busy tending to farm duties and looking after their pets. “I didn’t expect her to win, but I’m thrilled for her and the recognition it brings to Kannada literature,” he said, adding that he was the one who shared the good news with Bhasthi’s parents on May 21 morning. “They were emotional and proud. It’s a big moment for our family,” he added.

Born and raised in Madikeri, Ms. Bhasthi studied at Kodagu Vidyalaya before moving to Mangaluru for a degree in Mass Communication. She worked with print publications in Bengaluru before transitioning to freelance writing and literary translation.

Mr. Nanaiah said that Deepa’s return to Kodagu is expected around May 26, though her schedule is still uncertain. For now, as she enjoys her moment on the international stage, her immensely proud husband continues to hold fort at their serene Madikeri farmhouse.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B P / May 22nd, 2025

‘I have never had a Plan B, hockey has always been my top priority’: Poovanna aims to make India debut after recovering from serious injury 

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 Poovanna suffered a facial injury during the Hero Hockey India League 2024/25 

Bengaluru :

After a brief stint with the Indian junior team in 2023, Poovanna Chandura Boby is now training with the senior core group ahead of European leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League leg. The 22-year-old is currently part of the senior national camp at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Bengaluru and has made it into the 40-member core group.

With the junior team, Poovanna had a fruitful spell winning the Gold and Bronze medals at the 2022 and 2023 Sultan of Johar Cup respectively. He was also part of India’s Men’s Junior Asia Cup winning squad in 2023 and made it to the senior national camp in August 2024. 

About his experience training in the camp, Poovanna said, “I’ve played for junior team in 2023 and now training with the senior players, I see a lot of differences between them and us. There’s a lot of work we need to put in to get to that level. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, you need to get much better to compete against European teams. We are getting gassed out every session, but we need to push hard to keep up. It has been a brilliant journey so far.”

Poovanna played the Hero Hockey India League 2024/25 for champions Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, however, he couldn’t play the complete tournament due to an unfortunate injury. In their seventh match against JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Poovanna suffered a facial injury while defending a penalty corner.

“It was a penalty corner and I generally don’t rush third, so I didn’t have my face mask on. Harmanpreet Singh fired a shot and it deflected off my teammate’s stick and hit my upper cheek. So, I was rushed off the field and I had to get my surgery done right away. I couldn’t play the rest of the tournament,” he explained.

He also revealed that he could have made his senior team debut during the home leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 in Bhubaneswar but missed out on the opportunity due to his injury. “Thankfully we won the HIL but the coach told me that I was called up for the Pro League squad but I couldn’t go because of my injury. Hence, I joined the camp early, worked with the physio in order to get in good shape for the training camp in March,” he added.

Hailing from Kodagu, formerly known as Coorg, Poovana comes from a family where hockey is a proud tradition. The Kodava hockey festival is renowned worldwide for being one of the world’s largest hockey tournaments, with hundreds of families participating in the event as tradition. 

“When I was a kid I used to watch those games and I always wanted to wear my family jersey, so that inspired me to start playing in school and I got naturally good at it. Playing for my family team was a dream come true for me after which I pursued the sport professionally. I have never had a Plan B, hockey has always been my top priority.”

Talking about the dynamic he shares with the other senior players of the squad, Poovanna shared, “The seniors are very easy to talk to and we youngsters learn a lot from them since they have been playing for a lot of years and have much better experience than us. We need to learn from them because we need to carry forward their legacy ahead in the coming years.”

“I look up to Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh a lot because they play the position I play in midfield. I like how calm and composed they are when they get the ball and progress the game ahead. Some things that they do on the field are truly inspiring.”

Poovanna also spoke about his experience training under coach Craig Fulton. “I’m training under him right now and he’s really good. He’s easy to approach and you can ask him whatever you want and he gives you clear answers. Whenever we train, if someone does something wrong, he stops the game and he teaches them, which helps us a lot and gives a very valuable perspective.”

After missing out the opportunity in February, Poovanna is determined to make his Indian senior team debut and solidify his position in the squad during the European leg of the FIH Pro League. “The upcoming tournament is crucial for me and I will ensure I work on my shortcomings tirelessly and do my best with whatever chances I get,” he concluded on a strong note.

source: http://www.hockeyindia.org / Hockey India / Home / May 16th, 2025

Varsha Bollamma slays Singapore streets in style

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In Singapore, Kannada actress Varsha Bollamma, who recently enchanted viewers as Bhoomi in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, is enjoying some well-earned relaxation.

The curly-haired beauty shared new photos from her trip, showing off her bright curls and beaming smile while wearing a white shirt and black shorts. She won over fans with her carefree aura and natural charisma when she posed in front of Singapore’s national symbol, the famed Merlion monument, in one of the photos.

Varsha costarred with Sundeep Kishan in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, where he portrayed Basava, a desperate stunt double who steals a bride’s jewelry and becomes entangled in a series of enigmatic occurrences.

Next up, Varsha Bollamma has two great projects underway and is back to work. In addition to filming for Nithiin’s next film, Thammudu, she is also working on a Tamil film called Iruvam. Varsha never fails to captivate her followers with her presence and performances, whether she is on vacation or on television.

source: http://www.gulte.com / Gulte / Home> Photos> Actress / by Satya B / May 14th, 2025

Rasika Duggal and Gulshan Devaiah’s ‘Little Thomas’ Scores Big with 3 Awards

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Little Thomas, a heartwarming comedy-drama featuring Rasika Duggal and Gulshan Devaiah, has garnered significant recognition at the upcoming 25th New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF).

The film has received three nominations: Best Actor for Gulshan Devaiah, Best Actress for Rasika Duggal, and Best Debut Feature for director Kaushal Oza. The film’s producers, Ranjan Singh and Anurag Kashyap, are excited to showcase their work at this prestigious festival.

Excitement Surrounds Nominations

Rasika Duggal expressed her joy at being nominated for Best Actress for her role as Jessie Miranda in Little Thomas. The film tells the story of a seven-year-old boy who is determined to unite his parents and wishes for a little brother. Rasika stated, “I am grateful that the work is being noted and appreciated, and I am looking forward to the response of the audience when the film is screened at the festival.” She emphasized the importance of audience feedback at film festivals, noting that they often provide discerning insights into the work presented.

Gulshan Devaiah, nominated for Best Actor, shared his excitement about the recognition from the NYIFF jury. He expressed his eagerness to attend the festival and his hopes for winning the award. “I am excited and happy with the nomination that the NYIFF jury has considered me for as the Best Actor for Little Thomas,” he said.

Director’s Thrill at Recognition

Kaushal Oza, the film’s director, expressed his delight at the nominations, particularly for the Best Debut Film category. Oza, who has previously collaborated with Anurag Kashyap on notable projects, shared his excitement about returning to NYIFF after the world premiere of his short film, The Miniaturist of Junagadh. He remarked, “This time I am delighted that ‘Little Thomas’ has been nominated at the same festival for the Best Debut Film… What really puts the cherry on the cake is the nominations for both the actors as well!”

The film, produced under the banners of Luminoso Pictures, Civic Studios, Flip Films, and Good Bad Films, had its world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne last year. It has since been showcased at other festivals, including the Toronto Indian Film Festival and Chandigarh Cine-Vesture.

A Glimpse into the Film’s Story

Set against the backdrop of 1990s Goa, Little Thomas follows the journey of a young boy named Thomas, who longs for a sibling. The film’s synopsis reveals that Thomas believes the key to getting a baby brother lies in his parents sharing a kiss. With his parents frequently arguing and no longer affectionate, Thomas takes it upon himself to orchestrate the “yucky act” he believes is necessary to fulfill his wish. This charming premise sets the stage for a comedic exploration of family dynamics and childhood innocence.

source: http://www.observervoice.com / Observer Voice / Home> Entertainment / by OV Digital Desk / May 14th, 2025

Karisma Aiyappa crowned ‘Mrs. Bharat California 2025’

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Karisma Aiyappa (centre) was crowned ‘Mrs. Bharat California 2025’ by Mydream TV USA at an event held at California recently.

Karisma, a HR/logistics professional in Silicon Valley, is a former State-level athlete and a passionate dancer.

Picture above shows Karisma walking the ramp in the traditional Kodava attire

A native of South Kodagu and daughter of Poilengada P. Machamma and late Alemanda Aiyappa, residents of Kuvempunagar in Mysuru, Karisma is married to Abhishek, an employee of Microsoft, Bay Area, California, USA.

Karisma’s participation in various Coorg events in the USA showcases her commitment to her heritage.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Photo News / May 13th, 2025