Category Archives: Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Inaugration of ‘Amar Jawan’ War Memorial in Kodagu on Apr.30

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Historical Links / Pre-Independence, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Records, All

Madikeri :

The War Memorial ‘Amar Jawan’ at Cherangala village, Cauvery Janma Bhoomi Trust premises in Bhagamandala, will be inaugurated on Apr. 30 at 10.30 am, under the aegis of Cauvery Janma Bhoomi Trust as part of annual celebrations of Thavaruru Koota.

Justice Santosh Hegde, Justice V. Gopal Gowda, Lt. Gen. (retd.) C.N. Somanna, Lt. Gen. (retd.) B.C. Nanda and Air Marshal (retd.) K.C. Cariappa will be the chief guests.

MLA and former Speaker K.G. Bopaiah, Lt. Gen. B.S. Jaswal, Maj. Gen. G.D. Bakshi will also be present on the occasion, according to a press release from M.C. Ravi Kumar, Managing Trustee of the Trust.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / Thursday – April 28th, 2016

City gets ‘plant a tree’ message on Earth Day

Agriculture, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Green Initiatives / Environment, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Nature

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Tree plantation and workshops on saving the planet marked the World Earth Day in Bengaluru on Friday.

In Haralur, Hennur and other places, citizens planted saplings of different trees while a composting activity was held at the Bangalore Scottish School in JP Nagar where students were given demonstration on converting wet waste into compost.

Environmentalist Vijay Nishant visited MEG Centre in Ulsoor to check the status of trees that were in bad shape and treat them, going with the theme of World Earth Day, ‘Plant a tree, save a sin from Thee’.

He said: “Two trees here are suffering from fungal infection. Since it’s summer, termites start attacking the bark of trees and weakening them.”

On Saturday, the nonprofit ‘Save Kodagu’, with the support of Kodava Samaj, Lions Club Kodigehalli, Coral Waters and Rescue Roadside Vehicle Assistance, will hold a bike rally from Bengaluru to Madikeri to spread the message of conserving the environment and saving Kodagu from deforestation.

The nonprofit expects more than 200 people to take part in the rally, after which a memorandum will be submitted to the Kodagu deputy commissioner to save the forest from developmental projects.

Concern expressed

The NGO expressed concern over chopping of one lakh trees to make way for high-tension wire in Kodagu. In other programmes, the Green Path Organic Store held a ‘Bhoomi Habba’ and the Geological Society of India and the Ministry of Earth Sciences held a panel discussion on ‘Trees for the earth’, in which environmentalist Yellappa Reddy and other dignitaries took part.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> City / Bengaluru – DHNSD, April 23rd, 2016

Aiyappa ready to act in movies

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

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Former Bigg Boss contestant and cricketer N C Aiyappa is ready to dabble with films as well as cricket. Aiyappa claims that he is flooded with offers in Sandalwood industry, since he was evicted out of the Bigg Boss house. In an interview to a Kannada news paper, he has said that he has heard two stories, but nothing has impressed me.

Aiyappa adds that both Pooja Gandhi and Gowthami Gowda are his good friends, we have been projected wrongly to the people, we are just good friends even now, but I have not met them since we all are busy in our own life, he said.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / News Home> TV> News / TNN / April 15th, 2016

TripTease : The magical Mallalli Falls

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature

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There’s so much to see and do in Kodagu! But if you’re looking for something off the beaten track, there are exotic destinations hidden deep inside the woods, like Mallalli falls.

Mallalli falls flow quietly and with pride inside a deep and thick forest at the foothills of the Pushpagiri hills. Formed by the Kumaradhara River, Mallalli falls is about 45 km from Madikeri and 28 km from Somvarpet.

To get there, on the way to Pushpagiri hills, take a turn at Bidahalli village, from where it is about 7 km away. The trail to the falls is motorable for about 4 km, after which the remaining 3 km is a trek through a thick forest.

The path from the junction towards the falls is filled with coconut and systematic coffee plantations on either side of the road. The roads are slushy, slippery and filled with gravel, so it is advisable to take a jeep here. Surrounded by the constant chirping of birds and the noise of insects, you wonder how a waterfall could possibly exist in such a dense forest.

When you ease into the comfortable drive to Mallalli Falls, the road begins to curve left on to a small, relatively unused road. To make sure you are taking the correct turn, look for a pale blue tiled house just before exiting on to the muddy path. This road ends in a Forest Department office where all vehicles are halted. Here, you make an entry at the department office. The parking place in front of the office is the last plain ground you will see. Carry loads of water and eatables from here because the trek down to the falls is tiring.

There are wide concrete steps to the falls, but they are not what you’d expect. Huge and constructed in a zig-zag manner, they take a lot of focus and concentration to descend. Even as your body tires, fresh, tiny droplets and a mist which parts reveal the gigantic Mallalli falls.

The view from these steps which are laid only for a few metres, is breathtaking. You will see a huge carpet of greenery around you and in between water falls. It wouldn’t be wrong to call Mallalli falls the queen of all falls in Kodava Nadu. The noise of the falls is equal to that of a roaring lioness. If you want to go further down, know that it’s risky. But if you’re confident, trek ahead, which will take you through fresh and scented fruit orchids where hundreds of birds thrive.

You can also try to reach the base of the falls, but you need to be extremely careful as most of the stones are covered with algae, making it a slippery trail. There are loads of bushes and trees you can use for support to reach the base. Make a comfortable place for yourself to rest, and take in a complete 360 degree view of the hills and the falls. But beware of the leeches when you walk down to the base.

The locals love the fact that Mallalli falls flows through Kukke Subramanya and Nethravathi River in Uppinagadi and forms a Sangamam which is considered to be holy. You can make a visit to the falls in the summer, just to refresh yourself from the scorching heat, but the best time to visit the place is between July and December.

Getting There

Mallali falls is 260 kms from Bengaluru. Take the Bangalore- Mysore- Hunsur- Kushalnagar- Somavarpet. You can also reach Kodagu by bus and from there head towards the falls which is around 45kms. You can also go in your bike, but it is not advisable during monsoons.

—Kumaran P

source: http://www.bangaloremirror.com / Bangalore Mirror / Home> Columns> Others / Bangalore Mirror Bureau / April 12th, 2016

Madikeri: Fr Wilfred Rodrigues OCD is awarded PhD

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Education

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Madikeri :

Fr Wilfred Rodrigues OCD, current rector of Carmelite novitiate house, Tapovana, Kushalnagar was awarded PhD in philosophy by the University of Mysuru.

He did his thesis on ‘Personal fulfillment and happiness through freedom from cravings – a comparative study of Gautama Buddha and St John of the cross’ which he defended on March 11. The thesis was completed in record time of around three years. The research work was much appreciated by the external examiners as well as the guide and members of the doctoral committee of the University of Mysuru.

Fr Wilfred has made the Rodrigues family and the entire Carmelite Order, especially the Karnataka-Goa Province proud. This is a very good contribution both to the field of philosophy as well as spirituality which will help millions of people to free themselves from their cravings so that they may find fulfillment and happiness in their lives.

More information can be viewed on www.carmelbangalore.com

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / Media Release / Monday – April 04th, 2016

Briefly

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Education

WORLD CONSUMER DAY

The World Consumer Day was celebrated recently in Madikeri under the joint auspices of Kodagu district administration, Food and Civil Supplies Department and Kodagu District Consumer Forum.

Mir Anis Ahmed, DC of Kodagu, inaugurated and V.A. Patil, President, Kodagu District Consumer Forum, presided over the programme which was attended by more than 150 people.

C.V. Nagaraj, retired Senior Chemist, Regional Agmark Laboratory, Bengaluru, demonstrated simple tests to detect adulteration in various food items. He also spoke about the harmful effects of various types of adulteration and on the laws that exist in India against food adulteration.

Associations interested in arranging such lecture-demos can contact C.V. Nagaraj ( 2521640, 9945651990).

CULTURAL FEST

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Pooja Bhagavat Memorial Mahajana Education Centre, has organised an inter-collegiate cultural festival on April 12 and 13. For registration contact festival convener Paul Iruthayaraj on 9739824423, Faculty coordinators Gunarekha B.S. on 9480438394 or Priyadarshan Bhat on 8867204780.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> National> Karnataka / Mysuru – April 11th, 2016

Annual Kodava hockey festival begins

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Records, All, Sports

The 20th annual Kodava hockey festival began at the Field Marshall K.M. Cariappa Grounds in Madikeri on Sunday.

Union Law Minister Sadananda Gowda inaugurated the 28-day-long festival by hailing the concept of community sport that serves to strengthen human relationships, which had taken a back seat the world over.

Pointing out that community hockey does not merely serve to promote ties between different Kodava families, Mr. Gowda said the sport also helps protect the community’s culture and traditions.

The Kodavas, who had contributed to the defence of the country, had also made immense contribution to hockey.

A large number of people, from different parts of Kodagu district, had arrived in Madikeri to watch the inaugural hockey match that was preceded by a cultural programme that included a procession showcasing Kodava traditions prominent being its agricultural practices.

The Kodava Hockey Academy president Pandanda Kuttappa, who is also the founder of the Kodava hockey festival, signalled the start of the festival by pushing a silver ball with the silver stick.

The annual Kodava hockey festival is being held in Madikeri after a gap of 11 years with the last one being held in 2005.

During the 2015 edition of the hockey festival organised by Kuppanda family in Virajpet, a total of 255 teams had participated.

The ongoing festival organised by the Shanteyanda family will continue till the finals scheduled for May 8.

299 teams

The festival will feature not only a record 299 teams, but also close to 5,000 players.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> National> Karnataka / Laiqh A. Khan / Mysuru, April 11th, 2016

Educational tour to Coorg

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Education

Educational tours are learning experiences outside the classroom. These trips supplement classroom learning by providing students with an opportunity to see places, artefacts, flora and fauna or phenomena that are described in textbooks.

Four teachers along with thirty students from class three and class four of Vidya Vikas Academy set off for Coorg in February.

Below is a summary of the educational tour by Neerja Bane.

Our train for Mangalore was delayed but that did little to dampen our mood. We reached Mangalore station at 8.30 a.m. and we were quickly whisked to a waiting coach. After having breakfast in Mangalore we resumed our journey to Madikeri where we reached at 1.00 p.m. The weather was cool and pleasant. After allocating our rooms, we freshened up and headed straight for lunch.

At 4.00p.m., we all set out to visit the Omkareshwar Temple and the Raja’s Seat where we witnessed a breathtaking view of an exotic sunset.

The next day, we went to Dubare Elephant Camp, took a boat and floated on till we saw elephants bathing.

We then visited Cauvery Nisargadhama, a bamboo forest that houses a rabbit farm and a deer park. We enjoyed feeding the innumerable fishes in the river from over the hanging bridge and experienced the thrilling elephant ride.

Post lunch we visited the Namdroling Monastery (Tibetan Buddhist Monastery) where we got to see three gigantic and beautiful golden statues of Buddha. After shopping at the Tibetan Market we continued to Mysore for dinner and stayed the night.

On day three, after a heavy breakfast we went to GRS Fantasy Park where we enjoyed various rides. After an entire day of fun and frolic, we returned to our hotel, tired but satisfied.

On day four, after an early breakfast we left to see the Mysore Palace, one of the largest palaces in the country. The palace is now converted into a museum that treasures souvenirs, paintings, jewellery, royal costumes and other items which were once possessed by the royal Wodeyars.

After visiting this historical palace we began our journey towards Coorg, Mandalpatti a beautiful location with scenic beauty. The adventurous jeep safari from Madikeri to Mandalpatti was thrilling.

Later we boarded the coach back to Mangalore and reached the station at 10 p.m. where we had our dinner and got on the train and spent time recalling memories of the trip. Not long enough later, we reached Margaon station and bid farewell to our friends.

It was truly a wonderful experience. We thank the school authorities for giving us this opportunity. We will cherish this beautiful journey to Coorg – Mysore.

source: http://www.navhindtimes.com / The NavHind Times / Home / In Kurio City / April 08th, 2016

I’m enjoying being loved: Harshika Poonacha

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg

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Coorg beauty Harshika Poonacha is on cloud nine.

The actress, whose Telugu film Appudalaippudila released yesterday, seems to be overwhelmed with the response.

Harshika has been putting up constant updates about the film on her social media pages, and has also thanked fans.

In one of her latest tweets, Harshika said that she is enjoying being loved. Her tweet read, “#Appudalaippudila love showering 😇😇😇 I’m enjoyin being loved.

Big thanks to @pradeep2510 sir fr launching me in Telugu.”

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / News Home> Entertainment> Kannada> Movies / TNN / April 02nd, 2016

The urban escape

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature

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With a sweltering summer on the threshold, Bengalureans are eager to get packing. Idyllic beaches, trekking adventures, wildlife tours and culinary trails, the possibilities are immense.

With airfare and hotel prices set to rise, they are trying to get the best deal without breaking the bank. Tour companies and adventure groups while pointing out how holiday-goers are exploring newer destinations, spell out whats ticking and what’s not!

By all accounts, summer holidays are the perfect time to revisit childhood. Keeping that in mind, ‘F5 Escapes’, a Bangalore-based, alternate travel company, which specialises in designing and executing all-women travel experiences, is holding a ‘Mom and Kids’ Trip’ to Coorg this summer.

Explaining the concept, Malini, founder and chief travel officer, says “As children, we have all chased fireflies. There was a certain magic in those quick, shining flickering lights in the dark. Of course, with time, glaring neon lights took over our night sky. With the concept ‘Chasing the fireflies in Coorg’, moms and kids will have the opportunity to explore the rainforests of Coorg. We help relive the childhood and watch the fireflies. It is also an occasion to learn about organic cultivation and solar living. We are organising the trip on April 23 and 24. Apart from that, we are also planning day trips in May.”

For the wanderlust-struck, any chance to get away from the cacophony is a winning deal. Across the country, the options are unlimited with every nook and corner having a story to tell and every nondescript hamlet something to offer. Himachal Pradesh has been high on the list of Bengalureans for some time now, be it for adventure or for the serene locale.

“When it comes to domestic travel, Kashmir has bounced back this year to be the top trending destination for domestic travel followed by Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Ladakh,” informs Karan Anand, head, relationships, Cox & Kings. As far as overseas destinations are concerned, “Switzerland and France continue to be hot favourites this summer. A new addition this year is Russia whereas Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau are the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia among Indian travellers. Cambodia, Philippines, Vietnam and Bali are offbeat lovers’ paradise,” he adds. Planning a vacation is no easy task, but for the many nomads in the city, an escape from the city has become inevitable. In fact they are happily infected by the travel bug.

“Summer has always been a popular time to travel amongst many Indians,” points out Ravish Doctor, manager- growth strategy, Skyscanner India. “Be it for a long weekend or an extended holiday, we have witnessed an increase in the number of travellers making the most of the holidays during the summer,” he says.

“From Bengaluru, there has been a steady rise in search for destinations within Southeast Asia. Much like the majority of Indians, travellers from Bengaluru also favour summer travel to more popular destinations such as Bangkok, Singapore, Bali and Kuala Lumpur.

While across the country, London and Paris continue to be the most searched destinations in Europe; in spite of the soaring temperatures, Dubai is emerging as a destination. This may be attributed to Dubai as an all-round family destination which makes it perfect for children during their summer vacations,” he says. In spite of the recent happenings in Europe, surprisingly, there is still a sizable chunk who wants to explore its picturesque locales. “Europe is the perfect holiday destination for Indian travellers who want to escape the summer heat and we are observing an upward trend for this destination. While, destinations such as France, UK, Ireland, Switzerland and Italy continue to be favourites, there are many small regions within these countries that are getting very popular such as Charmonix in France,’’ adds Karan. Clearly, this summer seems to hold plenty of choices and surprises.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Supplements> MetroLife / by Anupama Ramakrishnan / DHNS – April 05th, 2016