The 24th Edition of the Kodava Hockey Festival 2024, organised by the Kundyolanda Family under the auspices of the Kodava Hockey Academy, concluded its month-long (Mar. 30 to Apr. 28) Hockey Carnival at the General Thimayya Ground at Napoklu Karnataka Public School in Kodagu district last evening.
The registration of 360 teams marked a historic milestone in the tournament’s history, setting a new record for participation.
This year’s tournament witnessed the Chendanda family emerging as champions. In a thrilling match between Nellamakkada and Chendanda, Chendanda clinched victory in a nail-biting tiebreaker, with a final score of 8-7.
The Chendanda team has now earned the prestigious title of Kodava Family Hockey Champions for the third time.
Team Nellamakkada, which settled for runners-up position, seen displaying the trophy and the cheque for Rs. 3,00,000.
Somaiah from Nellamakkada was bestowed with the Man of the Match award. The goal scorers for Chendanda were Nikkin Thimmaiah in the 30th and 38th minutes, while Rohan scored for Nellamakkada in the 44th minute and Mac in the 54th minute.
The Kulletira family secured third place in the tournament by defeating the Kuppanda (Kaikeri) team with a score of 3-2. This match was also decided through a tiebreaker.
The victorious Chendanda team was awarded the rolling trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 4 lakh, while the runners-up, the Nellamakkada team, received a trophy along with Rs. 3 lakh in cash. The third-place holder, the Kulletira team, was awarded Rs. 2 lakh in cash, and the fourth-place team, Kuppanda, received a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
Last evening, a crowd of over 30,000 witnessed the thrilling finale, packing the gallery to its brim. Hockey enthusiasts from across Kodagu as well as from places like Mysuru and Bengaluru stood under the hot sun to witness the matches.
Despite the searing heat, their enthusiasm remained undeterred. 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 from its humble beginnings with 60 teams to become a grand event managed under the auspices of the Kodava Hockey Academy.
Following the grand finale and prize distribution ceremony, traditional Kodava music filled the air and the crowd, including men, women and children adorned in traditional attire, danced to the beats, bringing the tournament to an exciting close.
The Kodava Hockey Family Cup has transformed the tradition of families coming together to play hockey into a vibrant celebration akin to a festival.
For the past 24 years, not only the Kodava community but the entire district’s diverse populace, hockey enthusiasts and sports aficionados have eagerly awaited the unfolding of the Kodava Hockey Family Cup.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / April 29th, 2024
Yashoda Prakash, a distinguished filmmaker hailing from Madikeri, has achieved a remarkable feat as her Kannada film ‘Kandeelu’ secures a coveted spot at the 29th Kolkata Film Festival, scheduled to take place from December 5 to 12. Yashoda, the sole woman director from the district, has not only etched her name in the local film industry but has also brought recognition to Madikeri on a national platform.
‘Kandeelu’ stands out as the only Kannada film chosen to compete among films in various Indian languages during this year’s festival. Yashoda Prakash, a resident of Madikeri, has previously directed and produced numerous films, including three in Kodava and five in Kannada. Her active involvement in the industry has yielded several quality productions.
The storyline of ‘Kandeelu’ unfolds in a village, weaving a narrative around the life of a farmer and his family. Inspired by real-life stories, the film delves into the significance of life amidst myriad challenges across different phases. Yashoda expresses confidence that the movie will be well-received at the film festival, anticipating appreciation for its portrayal of life’s complexities and nuances.
As the only female director representing Madikeri, Yashoda Prakash has not only elevated the cinematic landscape of the region but has also become a trailblazer, showcasing the richness of storytelling and filmmaking from this part of Karnataka. The selection of ‘Kandeelu’ for the Kolkata Film Festival adds another feather to Yashoda’s cap, and she hopes to clinch victory in this prestigious competition.
source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> Entertainment / by Coovercolly Indresh / November 18th, 2023
A Kodagu girl has won a national level abacus championship in Delhi.
Kodandera Nushkka, 6, the daughter of Kavya and Vikram Kuttaiah is the winner.
She won the championship in a contest in which 3,200 children from across India had participated. She is being trained at Brainobrain Madikeri centre, which is headed by Mapangada Kavitha Karumbaiah.
source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> City News> Mysuru News / August 26th, 2024
This spike, amidst stable Arabica pricing, signals a boon for Indian growers, leveraging robusta’s affordability.
India’s Robusta Coffee Prices Hit Record High in Century-Old Industry (Photo Source: Pexels.com)
India’s coffee industry is experiencing a remarkable upswing with robusta coffee bean prices hitting an all-time high of Rs 10,080 per 50 kg bag, a historic milestone since the establishment of coffee estates in the Western Ghats region during the 1860s by the British. This is big news for Indian coffee growers who rely on the Robusta given its low-cost inputs.
In stark contrast to the traditionally stable pricing of Arabica coffee, renowned for its velvety shot layer, Robusta prices have remained relatively low, fluctuating between Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 per 50 kg bag for the past 15 years.
While export quantities witnessed a marginal decline of 2.5% at 3.88 lakh tonnes compared to 3.98 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, the Indian coffee sector reaped the benefits of soaring global robusta prices, which have reached a three-decade high due to supply disruptions in major producing countries like Vietnam and Brazil.
Commenting on this, Mr. M J Dinesh, Chairman of the Coffee Board says, “The change in the global temperature has impacted the shortage of coffee from Vietnam. The instant coffee market in India will gain from this; the same is gaining popularity too. Moreover, small coffee growers and laborers will reap the profit. They may witness an upsurge in their daily wages.”
The increase in robusta prices resulted in a 20% rise in per unit realization for Indian exporters, reaching ₹2.7 lakh per tonne during the 2023-24 period, up from ₹2.26 lakh in the previous fiscal year.
source: http://www.krishijagran.com / Krishi Jagran / Home> News / by Mrini Devnani / April 16th, 2024
Though Kodagu bettered its performance by recording a pass percentage of 92.13, it slipped to fifth position in the District wise rankings of II PUC results. Last year, Kodagu had bagged third spot in district wise rankings, while recording a pass percentage of 90.55 which is nearly 2 percent less as compared to the previous year.
A total of 4,576 students had appeared, out of which 4,216 students have passed.
In Science, A. Diana Naveen (592 marks out of 600) of St. Michael’s PU College, Madikeri, came the topper in Kodagu. She was followed by D.P. Jeevan (588 marks) of the same college who came second and H.R. Sinchana (588) of Coorg Institute PU College, Ponnampet and M.M. Kaveramma of Vidyaniketan PU College, Gonikoppa, shared third spot.
In Commerce, Charishma Johnson (591) of Vidyniketan PU College, Gonikoppal, was the topper in the district, while K.K. Rashmitha (589) of Sarva Daivatha College, Gonikoppa, came second. I. Bindu (588 marks) of St. Anthony College, Ponnampet and Jhuveria P. Zudd of Marques PU College, Madikeri, shared third place.
In Arts stream, S.Hemavathi (574 marks) of St. Joseph’s PU College, Madikeri, was the topper, while S. Srinanda of the same college came second securing 573 marks and P.I. Sapna of Ikra PU College, Siddapaura came third with 572 marks.
Mother and daughter pass out together
Meanwhile, a mother and her daughter of Kodagu district created a record of sorts by passing out second PUC in the same exam this year.
Rinisha, daughter of electrical contractor T.K. Surendra and M.U. Babyrani couple of Kudlur Chettalli in Kushalnagar taluk, had appeared for the second PU exam in Science along with her mother Babyrani.
While Rinisha was a student of Vidyaniketan PU College in Gonikoppal, her mother had appeared for the exam as a private student at Nellihudikeri Junior College in Arts stream.
While Rinisha passed out in flying colours by securing 570 marks out of 600 in Science stream, Babyrani passed out in first class in Arts stream by scoring 388 out of 600 marks.
Babyrani had last appeared for SSLC exam 25 years ago and this year, she appeared for the second PU exam, due to persistence of her daughter Rinisha and passed out in first class.
Thus, Wednesday marked as an important day in the life of Rinisha as well as her mother Babyrani, as they achieved academic success, passing out second PU with good results.
Rinisha, who was delighted with her mother’s performance, said she was more happy at her mother’s success than her own high marks in second PUC.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 11th, 2024
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
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
Statistician and author Dr. Boverianda Nanjamma Chinappa, aged 89 years and a resident of Covai@ Tapovan Solace in Sharadadevinagar, Mysuru, passed away at a private hospital here this morning. She leaves behind two daughters.
Cremation took place this afternoon at Harishchandra Ghat at the foot of Chamundi Hill. Her husband Boverianda M. Chinnappa (89), an Engineer and Consultant in India and Canada, passed away on Mar. 10, 2023
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Obiturary / March 31st, 2024
In a groundbreaking development for the coffee industry, robusta coffee prices have surged past Arabica prices to reach an unprecedented all-time high, driven by global supply shortages.
Bengaluru:
In a groundbreaking development for the coffee industry, robusta coffee prices have surged past Arabica prices to reach an unprecedented all-time high, driven by global supply shortages. The farmgate price of robusta green coffee berries soared to a record ₹172 per kg in the Wayanad market, on Wednesday marking a significant increase from ₹115 per kg during the same period last year. Additionally, the spot price of Robusta Parchment coffee beans skyrocketed to an all-time high of ₹315 per kg, compared to ₹220 per kg in March 2023. Notably, in March 2022, the rates for raw fruits and parchment stood at ₹80 and ₹145 respectively.
In the Kodagu market, the price of robusta parchment surged to Rs 14,700 per 50 kg bag, setting a new milestone. This marks the first time that the price of cherry and parchment coffee has surpassed that of Arabica. Arabica cherry coffee is currently priced between 8000-8200 per 50 kg bag, while robusta commands a higher price of over 8600 -8700 rupees.
Experts attribute this remarkable surge in prices to a combination of factors, including a surge in global demand and crop failures in leading coffee exporting countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam due to extreme weather conditions. Despite challenges in yield, India’s coffee production is expected to reach 3.54 lakh tonnes, slightly up from last year’s production of 3.52 lakh tonnes, according to officials from the Coffee Board.
Former Coffee Board member, Dr. Sannuwanda Kaveerappa, predicts a further rise in robusta coffee prices, attributing it to crop destruction in Vietnam and Indonesia and the superior quality of Indian coffee compared to other regions. With Karnataka leading the way, accounting for 71% of the country’s coffee production, followed by Kerala (21%) and Tamil Nadu (5%), India remains a significant player in the global coffee market.
As coffee prices soar, it is anticipated that prices in hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops will witness an upward trend in the coming months, potentially impacting consumers. This price hike may prompt consumers to shift towards other alternatives like tea. Additionally, the rise in robusta prices may lead Arabica growers to consider transitioning to robusta cultivation due to its lower maintenance costs and rarity of borer infestation. Market analysts anticipate further increases in coffee prices in the coming days, with the possibility of maintaining stability even in the face of minor fluctuations.
source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka / by Coovercolly Indresh / Hans News Service / March 28th, 2024
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
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