Category Archives: Business & Economy

Siddaramaiah to visit Kodagu to launch developmental programmes

District secretary has told officials to prepare proposals for essential works and submit them during the CM’s visit; measures to be taken for securing ‘GI’ tag for Coorg honey.

Siddaramaiah | Photo Credit: File Photo

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be visiting Kodagu on January 25 to participate in the launch of various development works.

In view of the visit, district officials have been asked to prepare proposals for works that are essential for the district, and submit the reports. In this connection, secretary in-charge of Kodagu district N.V. Prasad held a meeting with officials in Madikeri on Saturday. He also reviewed the progress of various development works.

Mr. Prasad asked the officials to prepare a proposal for establishing a law college in Kodagu as the district currently lacks one.

Under a programme, law graduates belonging to SC/STs will get a financial assistance of ₹10,000 a month for a period of two years. However, no graduates from Kodagu are available for availing the benefit, said Social Welfare Department Deputy Director Shekar. The official brought this to the notice of the Secretary.

When District Surgeon Nanjundaiah said there is no college for physiotherapy courses in Kodagu, the secretary asked him to submit a proposal.

During his visit, Mr. Siddaramaiah will inaugurate a KSRTC depot in Kushalnagar and also launch various development works. The heads of various departments shared details on the programmes scheduled in their respective departments that are going to be launched. Indira canteens will also be launched.

An official from ITDP said Kodagu has 11 ashram schools, nine hostels, one Morarji Desai School and one Eklavya Model School. In total, 1,500 students are studying in these schools. After SSLC, a hostel for the students under ITDP was necessary, he added.

Honne Gowda’s suggestion was considered by the secretary who asked him to submit a proposal in this regard.

He also sought land for landless tribals in every GP.

The deputy director of the Department of Horticulture was asked to explore the possibilities of securing a GI tag for honey that is marketed under the name ‘Coorg Honey’. It’s an initiative of the farmers’ consortium and the matter will be discussed with the group, the DD told the meeting.

The district secretary also collected details on the progress of the guarantee schemes, including Shakti, and others.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India / by The Hindu Bureau / January 21st, 2024

Elevate your love story: Weddings amidst majestic hills at Coorg Marriott

Marriott, weddings in India, Scotland,

Discover Coorg Mariott Resort & Spa, where natural beauty, cultural charm, and luxury combine for unforgettable weddings in India “Scotland.”

Coorg, often dubbed the “Scotland of India,” is an enchanting setting for weddings, combining natural splendor, cultural heritage, and a delightful climate. The Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa enhances this allure, providing exceptional experiences in a magnificent environment. Opting for a wedding in Coorg, especially at the Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa, guarantees a distinctive and unforgettable occasion, treasured by you and your guests forever.

Embraced by Nature:

Set in the heart of the Western Ghats, Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa boasts stunning mountain vistas and offers a retreat from urban chaos. Imagine saying your vows with misty hills as your backdrop, creating an enchanting forest ambiance. This 5-star luxury resort in Madikeri, Coorg, offers unique cultural activities for guests, such as visiting coffee estates, traditional dance shows, outdoor dining, and nature trails.

Perfect Climate:

Coorg’s year-round agreeable weather makes it an ideal wedding location for global travelers. From cozy winter nuptials to lively monsoon festivities or peaceful summer ceremonies, Coorg caters to all seasonal preferences. The Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa, surrounded by misty mountains, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls, invites guests to immerse in the region’s natural beauty.

Luxurious Accommodations:

As the first Marriott International resort in Coorg, the Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa brings Marriott Bonvoy benefits to the area. The resort features 108 elegantly appointed villas and cottages, with stunning views of green landscapes and plantations. Each room includes a private balcony for guests and global travelers to relax and enjoy before the big day. Brides and their friends can indulge in poolside fun or a soothing spa treatment at Quan Spa. Some cottages also boast a private pool for a secluded swim.

Versatile Venues:

The resort offers over 16,000 square feet of event space, including five exquisite venues and a large pre-function area, ideal for destination weddings or intimate family events. The hotel’s adaptable banquet spaces, like the Silver Oak Banquet Hall, are customizable and feature custom floral arrangements. The Kote Betta Terrace, an outdoor venue with an Amphitheatre, showcases Coorg’s breathtaking natural scenery.

Culinary Delights:

The resort’s dining experiences are a culinary exploration. A skilled team of chefs can craft a bespoke menu to delight your guests. From lavish traditional meals to international gastronomic experiences overlooking the valley, your wedding banquet will be a memorable feast.

Madiker Kitchen offers international and traditional Kodava cuisine in a contemporary all-day dining setting. Grills By The Valley allows dining under the stars with forest views, offering reimagined delicacies and expertly crafted drinks. Mercara Outpost is a vibrant space for work, socializing, and relaxation, serving light snacks, innovative cocktails, and a creative cocktail menu. Coco Lab is a modern coffee lounge with an immersive ambiance and skilled baristas, featuring high bar stools for coffee art viewing. The Deck, a swim-up pool bar, is ideal for enjoying sundowners with light bites and relaxed conversations.

Spa and Wellness:

The Quan Spa, with six therapy rooms, blends ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern wellness practices, providing a serene environment for relaxation and pre-wedding pampering.

Guest Amenities:

Spread over 37 acres of lush terrain, Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa offers 108 rooms, villas, and cottages, including one- and two-bedroom villas and a Presidential Mansion, catering to your wedding party’s needs.

Local Culture and Activities:

For those wanting to incorporate local Kodava culture and traditions into their wedding, the resort can seamlessly integrate these elements, offering a culturally rich experience for you and your guests and global travelers. Before the wedding, enjoy activities like Coffee & Spice plantation tours, trekking, bird watching, Wildlife Documentary Shows, Arcade Games, and more.

Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa is the perfect choice for a grand destination wedding or an intimate celebration, blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and tailored experiences.

source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Travel and Tour World / Home> Asia / January 16th, 2024

Tourists to Kodagu up by 30% in 2023

After the natural calamities and the pandemic situation, the tourism sector recorded a downfall and was on a gradual recovery mode.

The Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Range of  Kodagu district attracts many tourists
The Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Range of Kodagu district attracts many tourists (File Photo)

Madikeri :

The statistics released by the Kodagu Tourism Department shows a 38% rise in tourist inflow to Kodagu in 2023. The percentage is in comparison with the tourist influx recorded in 2022. As per the data, 43,69,507 tourists visited the district in 2023 while the count was at 27,29,711 in 2022.

After the natural calamities and the pandemic situation, the tourism sector recorded a downfall and was on a gradual recovery mode.

However, the inflow was the highest last year since 2018 and a total of 5,82,906 tourists visited the tourist spots of the district in December 2023.

These numbers include the count of the tourists visiting only popular spots in the district.

During the New Year up till January 12, the inflow stands at 6,20,808. As per a survey by the department, Kodagu ranked third in the list of most searched tourist spots online.

Sources confirmed that the inflow was the highest during July and August months last year as Kodagu recorded scanty rainfall.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Shruthi Shruthi / Express News Service / January 15th, 2024

Glimpses Of Karnapex-2024 State-Level Philatelic Expo

Postal covers on seashell artist Radha Mallappa from Mysuru and ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma from Kodagu released

Mysore/Mysuru:

As part of its ongoing effort to redefine ‘connecting people’ in the online era, the Karnataka Postal Circle organised its annual State-level Philatelic Exhibition — 13th State-level Philatelic Exhibition, Karnapex 2024: Festival of Stamps between Jan. 5 and 8 — at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru. The Festival was last held in 2019 in Mangaluru. 

A total of 700 frames, with each containing multiple stamps and postal covers, were displayed and 17 stalls were put up. Postal covers on Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar, Sir M. Visvesvaraya setting up FKCCI, 100 years of Lalitha Mahal Palace, Mysuru and Mysore Sandal Soap were also released.

Notably, postal covers on ‘Kalashree’ a museum of artworks made of seashells and conches by Radha Mallappa, a resident of Hanumanthanagar in Mysuru and Karnataka’s first woman coffee entrepreneur Sakamma from Kodagu, known as ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma were also released, as part of women empowerment.   

Addressing reporters at Pathrakartara Bhavan on Tuesday, Mysuru Division Postal Deputy Superintendent Sunil Halepete said that Mysuru has already made a mark in the postal covers released by the Dept. in the past as postal covers of Lalitha Mahal Palace, Rashtrakavi K.V. Puttappa (Kuvempu), Mysuru Vilyadele and Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa.

This year, the Karnapex 2024 featured Radha Mallappa who has done sculptures made of seashells and conches. She has accomplished the magnificent recreation of Taj Mahal and she has been working on products of the sea since more than two decades and designed different items. 

‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma

Beginning from the smallest flower to the giant-sized Taj Mahal, Shiva temple, church, each piece is unique and eye-catching. The 11ft x 18ft tall Ganesha idol bagged the Guinness World Records. Each artefact is better than the other one and there are over 300 models on display, he added.  

Likewise, a postal cover on D. Sakamma, popular as ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma, was also released. Sakamma’s name remains somewhat obscured in the records of Indian entrepreneurs. However, her venture, ‘Sakamma’s Coffee Works’ in Bangalore gained widespread recognition in the 1920s, playing a pivotal role in the early 20th century by introducing authentic cured and powdered coffee from Kodagu to the residents of the Princely State of Mysore. Widowed at the age of 18, Sakamma chose to channel her education into managing the coffee estate left by her husband, Savkar Doddamane Chikkabasappa Setty, a prosperous coffee planter from Somwarapet in Kodagu. Relocating to Bangalore, she established a coffee curing and powdering unit near Bull Temple Road in 1920. Swiftly, her distinctive coffee blend gained immense popularity across the city, making Sakamma Coffee Works an integral part of the lives of Bangaloreans.

The attractive postal covers feature Radha Mallappa and ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma with imagery of their respective fields of achievements. A short description has been printed at the back of the postal cover.

Marimallappa’s PU College Educational Officer Mangala Muddumadappa, Radha Mallappa, Postal Department Sales Division Manager Sureshkumar were present at the press meet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 11th, 2024

Airstrip Construction At Kushalnagar In Kodagu

Revenue Minister assures speedy land transfer

Bengaluru:

In a significant development, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has committed to expeditiously transferring the necessary land for the construction of an airstrip in Kodagu District to the District Administration.

This assurance followed a meeting held yesterday at Vikasa Soudha in Bengaluru, presided over by Krishna Byre Gowda and attended by Kodagu District In-charge Minister N.S. Boseraju.

The Kodagu District Administration conducted a comprehensive land survey for the proposed airstrip near Kushalnagar. Initially, a 49.5-acre plot near Sainik School, Kushalnagar (Koodige) at Doddathoor village, bordering Basavanathoor village, was identified in the first survey.

However, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) deemed it insufficient, prompting a re-survey. The second survey identified over 130 acres of land at Dodda Aluvara village near Koodige, within the jurisdiction of the Revenue Department, addressing the need for additional space.

Minister Boseraju, addressing reporters post-meeting, noted that issues related to the Revenue Department were brought to his attention during the Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) meeting in Kodagu a few days ago. He stated, “The meeting with the Revenue Minister aimed to find solutions to these problems.”

Expressing satisfaction, Minister Boseraju affirmed, “The Revenue Minister’s positive response to the land transfer for the airstrip instils confidence in the timely resolution of the highlighted issues.”

The meeting also delved into acquiring necessary grants and permissions for constructing a mini Vidhana Soudha and an administration building in newly established taluks.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna and Madikeri MLA Dr. Manthar Gowda, along with various officers, attended the meeting.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 05th, 2023

Poetic rendition of Beans n’ Brews Café, Coorg in Villanelle style

Beans n’ Brews Café is a popular café located in Coorg, Karnataka, India. It’s known for its relaxed and cozy ambiance, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Amidst Coorg’s embrace, where coffee beans twirl,
Beans n’ Brews Café, where aroma unfurls,
In villanelle verses, their essence we’ll swirl.

Mocha Magic: Espresso Dreams’ Reign

In the heart of the brew, where darkness swirls,
Mocha Magic, where espresso dreams reign,
A velvety dance, in each cup’s domains.

Latte’s Lullaby: Milky Way’s Whirl

In the creamy stream, where milk does unfurl,
Latte’s Lullaby, Milky Way’s whirl,
A comforting sip, where foam’s gentle swirl.

Caramel Symphony: Macchiato’s Frame

With caramel’s kiss, where sweetness does swirl,
Caramel Symphony, Macchiato’s frame,
A bittersweet tale, in each sip, we proclaim.

Muffin’s Embrace: Blueberry’s Theme

By the muffin’s side, where flavors unfurl,
Muffin’s Embrace, Blueberry’s theme,
A crumbly delight, in each bite, we esteem.

Croissant’s Charm: Chocolate’s Gleam

In flaky layers, where butter does swirl,
Croissant’s Charm, Chocolate’s gleam,
A warm pastry hug, in each bite, we redeem.

Cookie’s Reverie: Oatmeal’s Beam

With a cookie’s crunch, where flavors whirl,
Cookie’s Reverie, Oatmeal’s beam,
A wholesome treat, in each nibble, we deem.

At Beans n’ Brews Café’s table, where moments unfurl,
These dishes, in villanelle, their essence we swirl,
In Coorg’s heart, where coffee’s embrace does twirl,
A poetic feast, where each sip is a pearl.

A villanelle is a highly structured form of poetry known for its repetition of lines and intricate rhyme scheme. This structure challenges poets to craft poems that are both emotionally resonant and artistically intricate, making it a captivating form of poetic expression.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> Blogs> Lifestyle / by Food connoisseur in Symphony of Tales / September 10th, 2023

Dr Vishwa Cariappa of San Group honored with ‘ET Achievers of Award’

Dr Vishwa Cariappa of San Group honored with ‘ET Achievers of Award'
MD of San Group of Companies, Dr Vishwa Cariappa Receives Prestigious ‘ET Achievers Award’

Dr Vishwa Cariappa, BS, the Managing Director of the San Group of Companies, was recently honored with the prestigious “ET Achievers of Award” for Emerging Plot Developer of the Year at a glittering ceremony in Bengaluru on October 3, 2023. This distinguished award, presented by the Economic Times, was bestowed upon him by the renowned actress Padma Shri Raveena Tandon.

Upon receiving this esteemed recognition, Dr B.S. Vishwa Cariappa expressed his gratitude and dedication, stating, “This award serves as an inspiration for me to strive for even greater excellence.” The “ET Achievers—Karnataka 2023” award is designed to acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in various fields.

Dr Cariappa’s commitment to social responsibility is exemplified through his involvement with the ‘Karnataka Dharmadrishti Souharda Credit Co-operative Society.’ Under the guidance of Swami Vigyananand Ji, the founder and Global Chairman of the World Hindu Foundation, this society provides long-term loans with remarkably low interest rates and accessible EMI options for repayment, spanning 10–15 years.

Over a legacy spanning 17 years, the San Group of Companies, under the visionary leadership of Dr Vishwa Cariappa, has cultivated a distinctive workplace culture where employees are treated as valued friends. The company’s remarkable achievement of retaining 50 to 60 employees for nearly 15 years is a testament to its commitment to employee welfare. The present workforce of 500 continues to contribute to the company’s success, having successfully sold 1 crore square feet of land.

Managing a conglomerate of 14 companies, including a technology company, Property and Developers, Viscon Constructions, and San Palace (Kalyan Mandir), Dr. Cariappa has successfully diversified his business portfolio. The esteemed San Palace, often referred to as the ‘National Gem,’ stands as a symbol of grandeur and hosts various ceremonies and events.

Dr Vishwa Cariappa’s dedication to social welfare extends beyond business into education and healthcare. He has expressed his commitment to donate land and Rs. 1 crore for the establishment of a multispecialty hospital to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His educational initiatives, San International and San PU College, are dedicated to providing free education to economically disadvantaged students. Furthermore, he offers free housing to senior employees of the company.

Upon receiving this prestigious award, Cariappa expressed his delight, saying, “I am deeply honored to be a recipient of such a distinguished award.” He further added, “San Group embarked on a journey with the goal of achieving excellence in the real estate industry, and today the company has expanded into several sectors. In the face of the formidable challenges posed by the COVID pandemic, San City emerged as an exemplary leader in this sector. We navigated through the highs and lows with unwavering determination. This award also serves as an encouragement to continue serving more people in the future.”

For more information, you can visit the official website: http://www.sancity1.com/

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SRV Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

source: http://www.theprint.in / The Print / Home> ANI Press Releases / by ANI PR / October 03rd, 2023

The Tamara Coorg welcomes Saswata Banerjee as new General Manager

Banerjee brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of success with Indian and international brands, making him a valuable addition to The Tamara family

Saswata Banerjee, General Manager, The Tamara Coorg

The Tamara Coorg, a leading luxury resort in the hills of Coorg, announced the appointment of Saswata Banerjee as its new General Manager. With 21 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Banerjee brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of success with Indian and international brands, making him a valuable addition to The Tamara family.

His dedication to excellence and adventurous spirit have garnered him numerous accolades, including the prestigious MD’s Club Member Award at TAJ Exotica, Maldives, and the esteemed LQA Star Award at COMO Bhutan. Under Mr. Banerjee’s adept stewardship, RAAS Jodhpur achieved international acclaim, securing a place among the “Top 50 Best Hotels in the World” in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Awards 2020.

Shruti Shibulal, CEO & Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences, said, “The appointment of Saswata Banerjee as General Manager at The Tamara Coorg underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. His extensive industry knowledge and steadfast dedication to excellence are in perfect alignment with our vision at Tamara Leisure Experiences. We eagerly anticipate his invaluable contributions in enhancing our guest offerings and upholding our esteemed status as a leading luxury destination.”

source: http://www.hotelierindia.com / Hotelier India / Home> Operations / by Staff Writer / September 20th, 2023

Poetic rendition of East End Hotel, Coorg in Sonnet style

The East End Hotel is a well-established hotel and restaurant located in Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka, India. It’s known for its comfortable accommodations and a restaurant that offers a diverse menu of Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Amidst Coorg’s embrace, where nature’s sighs,
East End Hotel’s dishes, a feast for eyes,
In sonnet’s verses, their essence shall rise.

Spice-Infused Symphony: Chicken Biryani

In fragrant notes, where spices entwine,
Chicken Biryani, a dish divine,
Each grain tells tales of flavors that shine.

Tandoor’s Enigma: Seekh Kebab’s Delight

From the tandoor’s flame, where secrets ignite,
Seekh Kebab’s Delight, a savory flight,
Each bite whispers stories of the spicy night.

Garden’s Bounty: Vegetable Manchurian

In the garden’s embrace, where colors unite,
Vegetable Manchurian, a veggie’s delight,
Each ball of joy, in the sauce takes its flight.

Coastal Rhapsody: Fish Curry’s Dream

By the coastal breeze, where waves excite,
Fish Curry’s Dream, a sea’s endless sight,
Each morsel dances in the flavors so right.

Paneer’s Serenade: Paneer Butter Masala

In creamy melodies, where curdles unite,
Paneer Butter Masala, a vegetarian’s light,
Each bite in richness, brings comfort to sight.

Sweet Euphoria: Gulab Jamun’s Bliss

Under dessert’s spell, where sweetness takes flight,
Gulab Jamun’s Bliss, in syrup’s embrace so tight,
Each dumpling of joy, in the sugary night.

At East End Hotel’s table, where dining complies,
These dishes, in sonnet, their essence shall rise,
In Coorg’s heart, where nature’s beauty belies,
A poetic feast, under the open skies.

A sonnet is a structured and highly stylized form of poetry that has been used for centuries in various literary traditions, most notably in English and Italian poetry. The sonnet is a structured and versatile poetic form known for its precise structure, rhyme scheme, and meter. Its rich history and ability to convey complex themes in a concise manner have made it a beloved and enduring style of poetry in both traditional and contemporary poetry.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> Blogs> Lifestyle / by Food Connoisseur in Symphony of Taste, Lifestyle. TOI / September 10th, 2023

Karnataka’s Kodagu district ranks 7th in global tourist searches

In 2023, the district claimed the 3rd spot among the most searched tourist destinations by Indians, with Goa securing 2nd place and Kashmir at 6th.

Karnataka's Kodagu district ranks 7th in global tourist searches
Waterfalls in Kodagu.

Kodagu: 

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, Kodagu district in Karnataka continues to enchant tourists globally, securing the 7th position among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations.

The recognition comes as a testament to the district’s breathtaking natural beauty and popular attractions, making it a sought-after destination for millions.

Kodagu’s captivating scenery, including verdant hills adorned with lush green forests and glistening streams, transforms into a winter wonderland during the cold and rainy seasons, drawing visitors from far and wide.

In 2023, the district claimed the 3rd spot among the most searched tourist destinations by Indians, with Goa securing 2nd place and Kashmir at 6th.

Home to over 18 prominent tourist spots, such as Madikeri Rajaseet, Abbifalls, Cauvery Nisarga Dhama, Dubare elephant Camp, Abbifalls, and Irpufalls, Kodagu witnesses a substantial influx of tourists, with more than 1 lakh visitors on weekends and 30 thousand on weekdays.

The district boasts over 4 thousand homestays and 1000 resorts, all bustling with activity during the year-end.

Nagendra Prasad, President of the Hotel and Resort Owners Association, noted that the surge in tourists during the year-end festivities emphasizes the district’s growing popularity.

The 7th global ranking positions Kodagu alongside renowned destinations like Goa, Bali, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar, Italy, and Switzerland.

Lush greenery, waterfalls

The lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers of Kodagu leave an indelible mark on visitors, contributing to its rising fame.

The Tourism Department of Kodagu acknowledges the significance of Rajaseeti in Madikeri, the nature reserve, and Dubare as prime attractions. Plans are underway to develop user-friendly websites for tourists, enhancing accessibility to information about these sites.

Speaking to Siasat.com Anita Bhaskar, Deputy Director of the Tourism Department, expressed joy at Kodagu consistently captivating the world’s attention in terms of tourism.

The surge in Google searches for Kodagu’s tourist destinations reflects the district’s universal appeal and marks a significant milestone in its tourism development.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> India / by Diganth Kengeri / December 15th, 2023