Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, who also serves as the Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, Somwarpet MLA Dr. Manthar Gowda and Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar have called for peace between communities in Kodagu following tensions at the Maha Mrithyunjaya Temple in Kattemad village on Dec. 27.
The incident occurred when over 20 Kodava community members, including women in traditional attire, were prevented from entering the Temple wearing traditional dresses by individuals from another community, claiming to represent the Temple Management Board.
Reports suggest that individuals demanded Kodavas either remove their traditional attire or leave the Temple premises. The altercation occurred on the final day of the festival at the Mrithyunjaya Temple. It was claimed that the Temple’s by-laws prohibit traditional attire, a contention that Kodava community members vehemently disputed.
The Police intervened to defuse the situation. Both groups filed complaints and counter-complaints at the Madikeri Rural Police Station. Footage of the incident, which has gone viral on social media, has drawn widespread criticism for causing disrespect to the Kodava community in their homeland.
MLA Ponnanna called upon everyone to uphold peace and harmony. “I appeal to the Temple management to revoke this by-law and allow traditional attire from all communities. Historically, traditional attire has been a vital part of the district’s cultural heritage, embraced by various communities,” he said.
MLA Dr. Manthar Gowda also expressed his surprise over the incident, noting that Kodagu is known for its communal harmony and peaceful coexistence among communities. He urged all parties to maintain peace and ensure that the situation does not escalate.
Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar strongly condemned the incident and denounced acts of mutual hatred and disruptions to societal peace, emphasising that such incidents should never happen. He called for addressing differences through dialogue and fostering a harmonious environment.
In response to the incident, various organisations have announced plans for a massive march titled ‘Kodava Nadige Kattemadu Kade’ soon.
Virajpet Kodava Samaja’s Honorary Secretary Maletira Srinivas accused certain politically motivated individuals of attempting to strip the Kodava community of their rights and insulting Kodava women.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / December 29th, 2024
The solo performances at the 10th edition of Manthana in Mangaluru brought the Kodava culture and strong women characters from the epics under spotlight
Shilpa Nanjappa’s presented the ‘Tales of Kodava’ | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Shilpa Nanjappa, a Kodava, brought out the rich culture and ways of worship of her people and the greatness of River Cauvery (whose origin is in Coorg) through her ‘Tales in Kodava’. She gave a clear, comprehensive introduction, as the songs were in Kodava.
This was presented as part of the 10th edition of Manthana, organised by Mangaluru’s Nrityaangan, which featured many solo performances.
Shilpa’s entry was full of zest and she lit up the stage with her expressive face and powerful movements. She began with a Kauthuvam in ragamalika that narrated the tale of Ayyappa, with keen focus on Mohini. It was an adaptation from ‘The song of Saastaavu’, a part of the Pattole Palame, a compilation of folklore passed down orally through ancestral songs. She beautifully presented the contrast between the clumsy movements of Bhasmasura and the graceful dance of Mohini.
‘Sri mula kanniye, pommale kodu male’, a patriotic song accepted as the anthem of independent Kodagu, blended the legends about the river goddess Kaveri and her present condition. The way Shilpa portrayed the callousness with which people pollute her pure waters would have melted anyone’s heart. When she stated that this is also the story of every single woman, manipulated and silenced through history, one nodded in agreement.
Before concluding her performance with a self-composed thillana, Shilpa presented a sringara pada ‘Aye, thumbi’, portraying an enraged Kanditha Nayika who is scorned by the man she loves. Her thillana was on the Puthari festival, a ‘harvest festival’ of the Kodavas when they dedicate their rice harvest to Igguthappa, who, centuries ago, taught them the method of cultivating paddy. The choreography of this piece had movements inspired by the indigenous dance forms of the Kodavas.
Shilpa’s performance was followed by four vibrant solo presentations on important female characters from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
Divya Nair as Chitrangada | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Divya Nair was convincing in her portrayal as Chitrangada, the princess of Manipur and the only heiress to the throne, who was brought up by her father as a strong warrior and an able ruler. Though her thoughts and behaviour are unlike those of a woman, tender feelings of love blossom in her heart when she meets Arjuna, the Pandava prince. When her son Babruvahana is born, she transforms herself into a fond mother, too. Divya brought out the nuances of Chitrangada’s character with her lively movements and striking abhinayas. She left the spectators wondering, ‘Who are you, Chitrangada –– a warrior, a lover, a mother, or all of these?’ The lyrics had been composed by Dr. Suneel and were set to music by Sankaran Menon.
Indu Venu beautifully transformed into Kaikeyi | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Indu Venu transformed into Kaikeyi, who is torn between her intense love for Rama and her unbearable jealousy when she hears that he will be made king. Kaikeyi fears that once Rama becomes king, she and her son Bharata will have no identity. With Tulsidas’s ‘Tumak Chalat Ramachandra’, Indu Venu brought out the essence of motherly love. Along with Tulsi Ramayan, verses penned by Dr. Himanshu Srivastava were used for Indu Venu’s portrayal of Kaikeyi. Music and rhythmic composition for this was by Sujesh Menon and Vinay Nagarajan.
Manjula Subrahmanyabrought alive Hidimba as a demoness. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Manjula Subrahmanya portrayed Hidimba, the beautiful demoness, who is besotted with love for the tall and well-built Bhima and becomes the eldest daughter in law of the Kuru clan. Her life with Bhima is brief, and when he goes back to his family, she is alone again. When Gatotkacha is born, her motherly instincts are awakened and she is a happy mother. When Bhima returns after many years, she is delighted but soon finds out that Bhima wants their son to participate in the war. Hidimba makes her supreme sacrifice as she willingly gives her son to Bhima and goes back to her life of lonely wandering.
With an intensely expressive face and strong masculine movements, Manjula brought alive Hidimba as a demoness. At the same time, by throwing light on her soft motherly feelings and her sacrifice, she made Hidimba’s personality soar high. Manjula painted a clear picture of the complex character of Hidimba, who is only briefly mentioned in the Mahabharata.
The lyrics for this presentation were by Kavitha Adooru, music by Vineeth Purvankara and jathis by Manjunath Putturu.
Radhika Shetty chose to present a different picture of Manthara | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Radhika Shetty, founder of Nrityaangan, presented ‘Manthareya Antharala’, a glimpse into the inner world of Manthara. Not conventionally beautiful, and abandoned by her parents, she finds refuge under Kaikeyi’s father and turns into a mother figure for Kaikeyi. Her actions are based on her boundless love for Kaikeyi and Bharata, who is like her grandson. Did she want anything for herself? Radhika’s expressive gestures and sensitive portrayal presented a different picture of Manthara. By the time Radhika concluded, the spectators were ready to understand Manthara and even sympathise with her.
Radhika’s presentation was based on Kuvempu’s Sri Ramayana Darshanam from which she had taken the lyrics that were set to music by Karthik Hebbar, Bengaluru.
The music ensemble was absolutely stunning. Vidyashree Radhakrishna’s impressive nattuvangam had dignity, strength, clarity and deftness. Nandakumar Unnikrishnan sang with emotion and gave life to the characters portrayed by the dansers. Mridangam by Karthik Vydhatri maintained the liveliness and flute by Nithish Ammannaya added melody and sweetness.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Entertainment> Dance / by B Ramadevi / November 26th, 2024
Dr. Padma Shekar, a native of Kodagu, a litterateur, education expert, researcher and retired Vice-Chancellor, is among 69 achievers chosen for this year’s Karnataka Rajyotsava Award.
Dr. Padma hails from Thorenur village, Kushalnagar taluk in Kodagu district. She has served as the Professor and Chairperson of Department of Studies in Jainology and Prakrit, University of Mysore, Director of Centre for Women’s Studies, University of Mysore and Chairperson of Department of Studies in Christianity, University of Mysore.
A recipient of several awards in the fields of research and literature, she is currently a resident of ‘Preeti Nilaya’, Vijayanagar Second Stage, Mysuru.
Elated by the decision of the State Government to consider her for the award, Dr. Padma Shekar said “I had been a recipient of several awards in the field of literature. Now, I have been awarded for the service rendered in the field of education, which is very close to my heart, that has brought immense joy and happiness for me.”
“I have worked in the field of education for 40 years and it was during my tenure in office that, Karnataka Sanskrit University and Department of Studies in Jainology and Prakrit, University of Mysore.
The Government has taken cognisance of all these achievements. I humbly recall all those who have nurtured my growth from a remote village to the level of a Professor.
I will especially thank former CM Dr. M. Veerappa Moily and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his Government. I was born in Virajpet, Kodagu, where I spent my childhood. I was also the Chairperson of 11th District Kannada Sahitya Sammelan,” said Dr. Padma Shekar, recalling her achievements with pride.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / October 31st, 2024
The 24th annual get-together of N.R. Mohalla Sri Kavery Kodava Okkoota was held recently at Kodagu Sahakara Sangha in Jayalakshmipuram.
The day-long meet comprised Bolakaat, Kodavaat, sports and cultural programmes.
Chottemanda Geetha Ashok conducted sports while Bolakaat and cultural events were performed under the guidance of Chottemanda Lalu, Deekshitha, Kotera Kushalappa, Kodira Pushpa and Kotera Revathi Kushalappa. Okkoota President Kodira Prakash Nanaiah, Secretary Madetira Sunil Somanna.
Committee Members Bachiranayanda Prasanna, Narapanda Sannu Mandappa, Kotera Suresh Kushalappa, Atrangada Praveen Poovanna, Choteyanda Smitha Poonacha, Balyatanda Sarasu Kushalappa, Chottemanda Lalu Mohan and Ajjinikanda Chittiappa were present.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / November 13th, 2024
The 8th edition of Barefoot Marathon will be held on Dec. 8 (Sunday).
The event, which is a fund-raiser for The Coorg Wellness Foundation, set up for the wellness of people, wildlife and ecology of Kodagu, will be flagged from Tata Coffee Sports Grounds at Pollibetta, at 6 am.
Bib distribution will be done Dec. 7 between 11 am to 1 pm.
To volunteer, contact Varun on Mob: 96868-55539 and for accommodation, call Ricky Monappa on Mob: 96323-38111.
For registration, interested may log on to https://youtoocanrun.com/races/the-barefoot-marathon-8th-december-2024/
The Marathon will be held in five categories — Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Run, 5K Run and 1.5K Run.
The registration fee for all categories is Rs. 1,000 which includes brunch and T-shirt.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News (headline edited) / November 04th, 2024
With a string of holidays including Deepavali and Kannada Rajyotsava weekend, the tourist-favorite district of Kodagu has seen a massive influx of visitors.
With four consecutive holidays, including Naraka Chaturdasi, Kannada Rajyotsava, Balipadyami, and Sunday, lakhs of tourists have flocked to Kodagu. Tourist spots and religious sites are bustling with visitors and devotees, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the region.
Tourists have thronged Raja’s Seat, the popular hilltop spot in Madikeri, where visitors are enjoying the panoramic views. Other attractions like Abbey Falls, Dubare, and Nisargadhama are also seeing a surge in footfall. The recent holy occasion of Cauvery Theerthodbhava has further drawn thousands of pilgrims to Talacauvery and Bhagamandala.
Heavy traffic congestion has been reported at major tourist spots and religious centres, including Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, and Talacauvery, posing challenges for the police in ensuring smooth traffic flow.
The month-long Kiru Sankramana period after the Theerthodbhava is seen as an auspicious time for a holy dip in the Cauvery River at Talacauvery. Thousands of devotees, including those from other districts and states, are visiting the sacred spot. The ongoing holidays have further increased the number of visitors, causing some local concern over difficulties in performing rituals peacefully.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinaykumar Patil / November 03rd, 2024
Kodagu is deep- rooted in the culture of the past, the glorious past.
The traditions, the idealsand the institutions of the past are inherited by us as a rich legacy. It is not just the abundant natural beauty that makes Kodagu a distinct place. It’s people- the Kodavas with discrete culture and heritage boost the glory of this land. This is the season of the year, where Kodavas in Kodagu district perform the annual ritual “KARANANG KODPO“ held in memory of their ancestors.
Amidst the misty hills and lush coffee plantations of Kodagu, the indigenous community of Kodavas honour “GURU KARONA” the first ancestor as their protector and guide. With Guru karona as their guardian, they walk the path of their ancestors, connecting to the very soul of their land.
Our ancestors are as much a part of us as we are part of them. Karanang kodpo is an occasion for kodava usually after the changrandhi, to invoke the ancestors, offer them sweet, meat, liquor, take their blessings and the families rejoice followed by a feast.
All auspicious ceremonies and works of Kodavas were usually done during this time because Kodavas did not have temple culture and kept Brahmins away as we Kodavas adore ancestral worship and venerate our man of yester year “Guru karona”.
Karanangkodpo is an important annual observance where offerings are made to a clan’s ancestors. The food and drink habits of deceased members of the family are remembered. Accordingly, offerings are made to the dead. The Karona, or the dead patriarch, is prayed to. Offerings of food and drink made to Gods and ancestors are called “Meedhi”. Kodava cultural traditions and practices were transmitted orally from generation to generation.
In olden days, all the members if an “okka” lived together in their ” Ainmane” or ancestral home. While many of these Ainmanes have been rebuilt, the traditional ones that are still standing are 150 to 200 years old. Today even if they do not live in the Ainmane, members of an okka gather to celebrate festivals and traditional ceremonies. The Karona, the first Ancestor or founder of the okka is revered as a God. Kodavas consider their Ancestors as their guiding spirit and their elders as their living guides. As a mark of respect, younger people touch the feet of their elders when they meet during auspicious occasions. Elders invoke their ancestors when they bless those who touch their feet.
The cultural heritage of the Kodavas is a priceless legacy passed down from generation to generation. Every legacy followed strengthens our collective voice, fostering unity and resilience.
Together we strive for an empowered kodava community that stands proud, preserving our roots and shaping a future rooted in our unique traditions.
Sadly, with the passage of time our culture has been ambushed by modernization.
Currently conserving our rich heritage to let our future generations know who truly are, is of surmount importance. Every nook and corner of our Ainmane act as a silent reminder into our colourful past.
An architectural aspect which as stood the tests of time are our Ainmanes. Homes to the native communities of Kodagu, these Ainmanes stand as a silent testimony of our story.
Let’s join hands, in conserving the little that remains of ancestors and their impressions left on the phase of earth.
Because Ainmanes are a matter of pride and the soul of kodava rituals and their revival provides a surety to Kodavas customs and legacy. As traditions passes on from generation to the next it is a duty of every Kodavas to maintain the sanctity of their places of worship.
source: http://www.clnnews.in / Coffee Land News / Home> Articles / by Kodandera Mamatha Subbaiah / October 25th, 2024
The work for the Ain Mane at Dakshinachitra Museum began in June 2023 and the same is ready to be inaugurated today.
The Ain Mane established at the Dakshinachitra Museum in Chennai.(Photo | Express)
Madikeri :
The Kodava Ain Mane forms the epicenter of the culture of Kodava community. The Ain Mane aka ancestral house act as curators of the Kodava traditions and culture. With an aim to introduce these traditional edifices to the world, a model of the Ain Mane will now be inaugurated at the Dakshinachitra Museum in Chennai today.
Dakshinachitra is a cultural living museum of art, architecture, lifestyle, performing arts and craft. The museum is home to 18 traditional houses that depict the unique culture of South India. And as a 19th addition to the museum, a traditional Kodava Ain Mane has now been established at the center in Chennai and depicts the rich culture of the Kodava community.
“Our long search for an Ain Mane from Kodagu bore fruit in 2022. We acquired and dismantled the 1852 built Kodira family Ain Mane in Kodagu. The entire house was documented in detail and all the wooden elements were numbered, dismantled and transported to Dakshinachitra Museum in early 2023,” shared Rathi Vinay Jha, former secretary of the tourism department, member of the Sandooka Museum Trust and Life Trustee of Daskhinachitra Museum who headed the Kodava Ain Mane project. She was earlier involved in curating materials for the Sandooka Virtual Kodava museum.
The work for the Ain Mane at Dakshinachitra Museum began in June 2023 and the same is ready to be inaugurated today. The Ain Mane is lined with materials that exhibit the unique culture, traditions, rituals, folk culture, attire and cuisine of the Kodava community.
The project was supported by the CSR wing of Hyundai Motors and Mobis India Foundation. As confirmed by Rathi, a Kodava troupe from Kodagu will perform at Dakshinachitra today and tomorrow during the inaugural ceremony.
“The Dakshinachitra Museum managed by Madras Craft Foundation showcases ancestral homes from all the Southern States. The museum is 35 years old and they already have 18 such ancestral homes. The Kodava House will be the 19th such house. The Kodava house will showcase the culture and heritage of Kodavas and Kodagu,” she concluded.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Pragna GR / October 22nd, 2024
The Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) has launched the ‘Connect Kodagu’ initiative in Madikeri, unveiling a comprehensive plan to elevate Kodagu as a prime example of sustainable tourism.
Through this initiative, KSTDC aims to promote eco-friendly travel practices, enhance visitor facilities, and preserve the natural beauty of the Kodagu district, a region renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
The program gathered local tourism organizations and district officials to discuss actionable steps to ensure a responsible tourism approach that aligns with the needs of both the environment and the visitors.
Among the key measures discussed were upgrades to tourist amenities, tighter control over unauthorized wine production, and collaborative efforts with health and law enforcement agencies to ensure quality standards for local products. KSTDC’s vision is to build a cohesive tourism ecosystem where environmental stewardship is balanced with visitor satisfaction, creating a memorable and responsible experience for all who visit Kodagu.
Kodagu’s popularity as a destination for solo travelers and wellness enthusiasts has been steadily growing, thanks to its peaceful ambiance and potential for health-oriented tourism. To add cultural depth to visitors’ experiences, the initiative includes plans to convert historic local homes into unique lodging options, drawing inspiration from similar projects in North India. Infrastructure enhancements were also highlighted, with the proposed addition of essential facilities such as restrooms and small retail outlets at intervals along key highways to support visitor needs.
As part of its forward-looking strategy, KSTDC and the Kodagu administration are set to release a coffee table book showcasing the district’s many attractions, from scenic spots to cultural landmarks. Additionally, a tourism app is under development, designed to provide tourists with easy access to information on local sites, activities, and services. The initiative has already garnered strong backing from regional tourism associations, which view ‘Connect Kodagu’ as a landmark effort to position Kodagu as a sustainable and culturally enriching destination in India.
Through the ‘Connect Kodagu’ initiative, KSTDC is setting a precedent in the tourism industry by not only addressing current challenges but also proactively planning for the future. By focusing on environmental preservation, cultural authenticity, and infrastructure development, KSTDC aims to create a tourism model that other regions in India could follow. This program underscores the importance of sustainable tourism in fostering economic growth while protecting the region’s ecological and cultural wealth.
source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Trave and Tour World / Home> India Travel News / October 29th, 2024
DakshinaChitra, the living-history museum and a project of Madras Craft Foundation, is set to unveil its 19th addition — a meticulously restored 1852 Kodava house from Coorg (Kodagu).
Located at DakshinaChitra Museum on East Coast Road, Muttukadu, Chengalpet district, Tamil Nadu, the house will officially open on Oct. 23 at 11.30 am, with Ju Seong Kyu, the Managing Director of Mobis India Foundation (the CSR arm of Hyundai Mobis) presiding over the event.
The Kodavas, a unique community known for their distinct customs, heritage, attire and cuisine, will have these aspects vividly showcased within the house.
Kodagu, nestled in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its rich, forested, mountainous terrain, and the Kodavas have long been its protectors, safeguarding its wildlife and biodiversity for centuries.
A dedicated exhibition on the Western Ghats will highlight the global importance of conserving these biodiversity hotspots. Kodava music and dance, a cherished part of the community’s culture, will also be showcased.
A Kodava troupe from Kodagu will perform on both Oct. 23 and 24 to celebrate the house’s inauguration.
The Kodava House exhibition has been curated by Gigi Scaria, while the Western Ghats exhibition has been curated by Shekar Dattatri and Saravana Kumar.
Contributions from Sandooka: The Living Museum of Kodava Culture, founded by retired IAS Officer Rathi Vinay Jha of the Codanda family, enrich the display with images, content and videos. She is also the Life Trustee of the Madras Craft Foundation.
The construction of the Kodava house and the exhibition has been entirely supported by Mobis India Foundation. The opening ceremony will conclude with a traditional Kodava folk performance.
Rathi Vinay Jha and Founder of Madras Craft Foundation and DakshinaChitra Museum Dr. Deborah Thiagarajan will address the gathering. Head of CSV Strategy Team, HQ Mobis Lee Chang Jun and Kim Kyung Jin from the CSV Strategy Team, HQ Mobis will be present.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / October 20th, 2024
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