India’s coffee exports rise 13.35 pc to 1.25 lakh tonnes in January-March

Business & Economy, Coffee News, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), World Opinion

Synopsis

India’s coffee shipments surged 13.35% to 1,25,631 tonnes in January-March 2024, driven by robust demand for Robusta coffee. Arabica and Robusta are the two varieties grown in India, with Arabica having a smoother taste and Robusta being more bitter. Export of Robusta beans increased by 18%, while Arabica exports declined. Instant coffee exports and re-exports also saw growth. The total coffee export value during this period was Rs 3,644 crore, ..with major destinations including Italy, Russia, the UAE, Germany, and Turkey.

Coffee may help lower risk of Parkinson’s disease: Study

Coffee shipments from India rose 13.35 per cent to 1,25,631 tonnes during January-March period of this year on higher demand for Robusta coffee, according to the official data. The country had exported 1,10,830 tonnes of coffee in the same period in 2023.

India, Asia’s third-largest producer and exporter, grows Arabica and Robusta varieties of coffee.

Arabica coffee bean has lesser caffeine content than the Robusta. Arabica has a sweet and smoother taste, while the Robusta is generally more bitter and harsher on the taste buds.

According to the Coffee Board of India’s latest data, export of Robusta coffee bean rose by 18 per cent to 69,637 tonnes in the first quarter of the 2024 calendar year from 59,050 tonnes in the year-ago period.

However, the shipment of Arabica coffee bean declined to 13,419 tonnes from 15,468 tonnes in the said period.

Instant coffee exports rose 16,218 tonnes during January-March of this year as against 15,238 tonnes in the year-ago period, while re-export of coffee also increased to 26,239 tonnes from 20,952 tonnes in the said period.

In terms of value, total coffee exports were at Rs 3,644 crore during January-March of 2024, higher than Rs 2,604.44 crore achieved in the year-ago period. The unit value realisation was Rs 2,90,057 per tonne.

Italy, Russia, the UAE, Germany and Turkey are the major coffee export destinations for India.

In its post-blossom estimate, the board has projected the country’s total coffee production at 3,74,200 tonnes for the 2023-24 marketing year (October-September), higher than the actual output of 3,52,000 tonnes in the previous year.

In the full 2023 calendar year, India’s coffee exports had declined by 5.4 per cent to 3.77 lakh tonnes.

‘Koothanda Parvati Poovaiah Was A Leading Woman Writer Of Her Time’

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022)

Avva,’ authored by Dr. Nayana Kashyap, released at BVB Kodagu Kendra

Madikeri:

At a time when adhering to Mahatma Gandhi’s principles was challenging, littérateur Koothanda Parvati Poovaiah effortlessly embodied Gandhiji’s ideals and lived a simple yet idealistic life, said Dr. Kalyatanda B. Ganapathy, Founder-Editor of Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra, who is also the Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan (BVB), Mysuru Kendra.

He was speaking after releasing the book ‘Avva’ on Koothanda Parvati Poovaiah at an event organised by BVB Kodagu Kendra in Madikeri on Saturday.

Pandyanda Belliappa was recognised as ‘Kodagina Gandhi’ (Gandhi of Kodagu) during the freedom movement and even after, always wearing only khaddar and Gandhi cap. Likewise, Koothanda Parvati, who had met Gandhiji twice and was influenced by his ideals, was wearing only khaddar sarees and clothes. Therefore, Parvati too could be called ‘Kodagina Sarojini Naidu,’ because Sarojini Naidu was an English poet and a Gandhian, said Dr. Ganapathy.

Although only a select few had the opportunity to meet Parvati Poovaiah in person, her ideals resonated widely through her writings, earning her admiration from many. Dr. Ganapathy commended her for getting recognition to the small Kodava community in Kodava and Kannada literary field and hailed her as a leading woman writer of her time.

Pioneering woman writer

Parvati Poovaiah, the pioneering woman writer, writing in Kodava language using Kannada script, from Kodagu, made a significant mark on the literary landscape with her command over Kodava, Kannada and English languages, Dr. Ganapathy said, lauding her immense contributions and acknowledging her as a pre-eminent woman writer of her era in Kodagu.

He said that Parvati not only pursued her literary endeavours with dedication but also rendered social service. Additionally, he commended her for effectively discharging her family responsibilities thus being a role model as a mother.

Wrote during challenging times

Dr. M.G. Patkar, a senior doctor of Madikeri, shed light on the profound significance of the term ‘Avva,’ “Mother” in Kodava language. He noted that while ‘Avva’ might appear simple, it carried great significance, particularly during Parvati Poovaiah’s era, which was marked by many challenges in India’s history, such as foreign rule and widespread poverty. Despite these hardships, Parvati enriched the literary landscape with her writings, underscoring the importance of literature even in difficult times.

In today’s poetry scene, there appears to be a decline in quality, with many poems lacking depth and substance, leading to an increase in meaningless poetry. Nevertheless, amidst this trend, Parvati’s poems carry lasting ethical values and life-lessons, he said.

Depiction of struggles

Dr. Nayana Kashyap, Associate Professor at Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College in Madikeri and the author of the book in English ‘Avva,’  sourced from the Kannada biography of Parvati written by Prof. Theethira Rekha Vasanth and Parvati’s books in Kodava language and Kannada, highlighted the simplicity evident in both the life and writings of Parvati Poovaiah.

She said that literature need not be profound and serious; even in its simplest form it can provoke deep reflection and regale the reader which is the true essence of literature.

Chairman of BVB Kodagu Kendra Konganda S. Devaiah and former Chairman of BVB Kodagu Kendra Koothanda P. Uthappa, who is the son of Parvati Poovaiah, also addressed the gathering.  Deepika Appaiah compered the programme. Balaji Kashyap, Secretary of BVB Kodagu Kendra, proposed a vote of thanks.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 08th, 2024

Yaduveer Wadiyar Intensifies Campaign In Small, Remote Pockets Of Kodagu

Business & Economy

Focuses on safeguarding environment, PM Modi’s vision, Centre’s transformative programmes

Madikeri:

The BJP candidate for the Mysuru-Kodagu Lok Sabha Constituency, Yaduveer Wadiyar, has intensified his campaign in Kodagu. Venturing into remote areas of the district, he has opted for micro-meetings with party workers, leaders and residents alike, eschewing the traditional mass public gatherings typically held at commercial centres.

In these exclusive settings, Yaduveer articulated his vision for Kodagu, fostering opportunities for participants and the general public to engage directly with him and exchange ideas on sustainable development.

With Kodagu experiencing adverse environmental impacts, such as heightened temperatures in its typically cooler climate, discussions on preserving the region’s ecological balance took centre stage.

15 to 16 events daily

Yaduveer’s two-day itinerary comprises approximately 15 to 16 events daily, featuring corner meetings, interactions with the BJP cadre and engagements with the public. Yesterday’s schedule included 16 meetings spanning Ponnampet, Hudikeri, Birunani, T. Shettigeri, Srimangala, Kutta, Balale, Tithimathi, Gonikoppal, among others, with Yaduveer engaging with citizens at various public venues, including bus stands and temples.

In his campaign efforts, Yaduveer is accompanied by former MLAs K.G. Bopaiah, M.P. Appachu Ranjan and a contingent of leaders. Together, they are engaging with senior political figures from the Kodava and Gowda communities, as well as representatives from other demographics in village settings.

Recognising the unique demographic and caste dynamics of Kodagu, Yaduveer has redirected his focus to the region. His speeches and discussions, whether in Mysuru or Kodagu, are centred around the vision of a Developed India by 2047, as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Viksit Bharat sankalp

This vision encapsulated as Viksit Bharat, serves as the cornerstone of Yaduveer’s campaign, resonating with constituents across diverse backgrounds and communities. Alongside Yaduveer’s addresses, local BJP leaders are amplifying the transformative initiatives spearheaded by Prime Minister Modi, such as the historic abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

They are also critiquing what they perceive as the detrimental impact of the Congress Government’s ‘freebie’ policy on Karnataka’s finances. Additionally, they are condemning the alleged corruption of Congress leaders spanning from Independence to the present day, as well as what they label as ‘anti-national’ actions by elected representatives affiliated with the Congress party.

These narratives form a crucial part of the BJP’s messaging strategy, aiming to garner support and sway public opinion in the lead-up to the elections. The BJP is attempting to win back the voter support it lost during the last Assembly elections.

Meetings were also held at Ponnampet, Kirugur, Balayamundur, Hudikeri, Birunani, T. Shettigeri, Srimangala, Kutta, Nalkeri, K. Badaga, Kanoor, Balele, Nittur, Ponnappasante, Thithimathi, Mayamudi, Devarapura, Gonikoppa, Aruvathokkalu, Hathur, Chennayyanakote, Pollibetta, Maldare, Siddapura, Karmad, Ammathi, Hosur, Bilugunda, Kanndangala, Chembebellur, Kakotuparambu, Kadanoor, Kedamullur, Bittangala, Arji, Betoli and B. Shettigeri.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 08th, 2024

5 Best Restaurants To Eat In Coorg

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), , , , , , , ,

Explore the Top Culinary Delights in Coorg (Kodagu) – Must Visit Restaurants

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a small hill station located in Karnataka, India. Lush greenery and the Western Ghats envelop the region, which makes it ideal for growing coffee. However, foodies will be happy to know that Coorg isn’t just famous for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. It’s known for its delicious cuisine as well.

In this article, we’ll go over the best restaurants in Coorg where you can indulge your taste buds in a variety of flavors. From authentic Kodava specialties to international dishes found nowhere else but here.

1. Local Cuisines – Raintree Restaurant

Raintree is a popular destination nestled inside a coffee plantation. They offer an array of traditional delicacies ranging from Pandi Curry (pork curry) to Kadambuttu (steamed rice dumplings) and Noolputtu (string hoppers). The cozy ambiance coupled with top-notch service will make you feel right at home while you dine on some true local grub.

2. Worldly Flavors – Beans n Brews Cafe

Beans n Brews boasts an extensive menu featuring dishes from all corners of the world. They’re also famous for their unique specialty coffee blends. Located in Madikeri town, you can choose between sitting indoors or out while enjoying pizza, sandwiches pasta and burgers along with freshly brewed coffees and other refreshing beverages.

3. Fine Dining – The Falls at Ambatty Greens Resort

The Falls restaurant can be found within Ambatty Greens Resort and offers patrons with a luxurious experience unlike any other in Coorg. Not only does it serve gourmet continental dishes made up of fresh ingredients sourced locally but they’re also experts at wine pairings! Dine in style with the scenic views of rolling hills and greenery in the background.

4. Cafe Culture – Tusk and Dawn Cafe

You’ll find Tusk and Dawn right at the heart of Madikeri. Its relaxed vibe coupled with colorful, picturesque surroundings makes for a perfect place to unwind while sipping on freshly brewed coffee or enjoying a hearty breakfast. In addition to these options, they also offer sandwiches, burgers and more.

5. Comfort Food – Coorg Cuisine Restaurant

Coorg Cuisine is located on the outskirts of Madikeri and has a homely ambiance that’s difficult to rival anywhere else in town. Their rustic Kodava decor is a breath of fresh air that will leave you feeling cozy as you sit back and enjoy some Akki Roti (rice flatbread) or their delectable Coorgi Chicken Curry among other dishes made from local ingredients.

When it comes to food, Coorg has got you covered. They’re dishing out a diverse range of flavors from all around the world. All while being surrounded by a beautiful landscape and scenic view. If you’re looking for some traditional dishes or just want to try something new, look no further! The best restaurants in Coorg are serving up an experience you won’t forget. You’ll be able to enjoy your meal with the misty hills and coffee plantations in sight..

source: http://www.travel.india.com / Travel by india.com / Home> Destination / by Kumar Utkarsh / April 03rd, 2024

AFFOREST Launches India’s First Jackfruit Skincare Range

Business & Economy, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , ,

Bangalore Based AFFOREST Green Beauty Brand announces all new culture of skin care.

“AFFOREST Green Beauty” a luxurious forest to skin, skincare brand that harnesses the power of exotic forest ingredients to revitalize and rejuvenate your skin. Inspired by the serene beauty and healing properties of forests around the world, AFFOREST was born out of their love for Coorg popular as mini Scotland of India.

Coorg’s beauty is a vision to behold. Undulating hills covered in lush green forests and a landscape dotted with coffee plantations, tea gardens and orange groves.

AFFOREST Team scouts through their vast estates and explore to unearth high performing vegan discoveries to be developed into the best of Skincare products that forests have to offer. They go through extensive rounds of Research & Development and Sampling before making the final jar of goodness that is clean, green, and filled with the AFFOREST Promise.

AFFOREST range of skincare products includes cleansers, serums, moisturizers, masks, and more, all designed to address various skin concerns and enhance your natural radiance. Whether you’re looking to hydrate dry skin, combat signs of aging, or achieve a radiant complexion, AFFOREST offers a solution to your needs. “Each product is carefully formulated with extracts from plants, herbs, and high performing plant based alternative extracts. We do not use any byproduct of animals in our products,” reveals, Yukta, CEO & Co-founder.

Key to the brand philosophy is sustainability and environmental consciousness. AFFOREST is committed to preserving the natural habitats that inspire their products, which is why they prioritize eco-friendly practices throughout their production process.

From responsibly sourcing ingredients to using recyclable packaging, AFFOREST strives to minimize its environmental footprint and contribute to the preservation of our planet’s precious forests. In this journey, they also carry their customers along with them. They contribute 1 tree towards each product bought and they become part of their community of, “AFFOREST RANGERS”.

AFFOREST RANGERS are responsible for:

•  Giving back to the forests

•  Building a greener tomorrow

•  Protecting our wildlife

•  Becoming a part of our green community

•  Promoting beauty that goes more than skin deep.

In addition to their dedication to nature and sustainability, AFFOREST is committed to inclusivity and transparency. “We believe that skincare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of skin type, tone, or background,” says, Yukta.

Their products are formulated to be suitable for all skin types, and they are committed to providing clear and honest information about the ingredients they use and their benefits.

Through the Journey

The brand founders have boot strapped the business and run lean operations. AFFOREST launched its 1st in India Green Coffee range of skincare products. The initial 4 product launch with cleanser, hydrating expert, mineral sunscreen & serum was the talk of the town. “These product’s well received feedback and positive support moved us to launch 6 more products in this range,” says Yukta. The 10 products became so popular as an India’s first ever launch that the founders started exploring more exotic forest ingredients to curate into their portfolio.

Challenges were plenty. “The biggest challenge for us was to maintain small batches of stocks to control the quality and efficacy of the exotic products before manufacturing at scale, convincing our manufacturers of the same was always the foundational challenge as we use exotic forest ingredients. With lot of efforts and dedication towards our products and brand aspirations we were able to convince our manufacturers to work on small capacities first to maintain our product quality which can be controlled by AFFOREST Green Beauty,“ reveals Yukta.

Everything revolves around the customers, “I personally interact with customers to understand in which direction the products and brand needs to evolve since we are new culture to skincare,” says Yukta.

India’s first Jackfruit Skin Care Range, nowhere else

AFFOREST, has launched yet another exotic forest hi performing science backed superpower ingredient, “Jackfruit Beauty Range”. India’s 1st ever launch which is backed as the hi performer for pigmentation and hyper pigmentation skin concerns. High amounts of vitamin C are present in jackfruit extracts which boosts collagen and firm’s skin. Powerful ingredient for Vitamin A and derivative retinoid delays ageing.

“The Jackfruit range will mark the luxurious era for AFFOREST,” says Yukta. The range consists of a foaming cleanser, gel crème moisturizer, under eye crème & bedtime serum blended with other science backed performing botanical extracts to target early signs of pigmentation & hyper pigmentation. 100% Vegan, Cruelty free, Paraben & Toxin Free, Exotic forests aromas will leave you wanting for more. AFFOREST products are not just to treat your condition scientifically, the experience is exotic, the aromas refresh your mind, body & soul helps you rejuvenate after a long day. “We will keep bringing the science backed, plant based exotic forest ingredient formulations to our customers which will not only treat and improve their skin needs but also make them feel good about themselves and relax their mental load by using AFFOREST products,” says Yukta.

Kudos to the team

•  AFFOREST Green Beauty has forayed into a marketplace with already existing strong players and has managed to create a niche for themselves from the exotic India’s 1st forest to skin products along with building an AFFOREST Rangers community and bringing New Culture into Skincare which is not just about treating skin scientifically but mindfully as well.

•  The brand received so much of appreciation from their Green Coffee range of skincare that they researched and developed another exotic forest ingredient the Jackfruit skincare range. They are going to keep bringing the customers exciting new forest goodness to bring freshness to their skin and lives.

•  The brand’s Hero Ingredient is always Certified organic, well researched backed with science and blended into the ultimate high performing potent formula. The most active part of the formulation is the hero ingredient which contains 10% of the actives.

“Our brand, AFFOREST ‘s journey is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and passion. As we navigate the road ahead, we will continue to uphold our values of authenticity, transparency, and integrity, ensuring that every product we create reflects our unwavering commitment towards excellence & the environment,” Yukta Raghu, 1st Ranger, CEO & Co-founder, AFFOREST Green Beauty.

www.myafforest.com

www.instagram.com/myafforestgreenbeauty/?hl=en

www.linkedin.com/in/yukta-raghu-6047b9245/

www.linkedin.com/company/82633843/admin/feed/posts/

Image: AFFOREST Green Beauty Brand – All new culture of skin care

(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Newsvoir. PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.)

source: http://www.ptinews.com / PTI / Home> General / by Press Release / April 02nd, 2024

Foresters in Kodagu try to reunite elephant calf with the herd

Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature, Records, All, , , ,

Nearly six days ago, a three-month-old male elephant calf was spotted roaming aimlessly across the estates of Maldare village in South Kodagu.

Forest authorities rescue a three-month-old baby elephant with the goal of reuniting it with its mother.

Madikeri :

Amidst the increased movement of the wild elephants across Maldare in Kodagu, an elephant calf went astray from its herd even as its cries reached the skies.

The residents spotted the elephant calf moving alone across the forest fringes even as the forest department was alerted. Rescue operations are ongoing to reunite the calf with its mother.

Nearly six days ago, a three-month-old male elephant calf was spotted roaming across the estates of Maldare village in South Kodagu. The calf called out to its mother and was roaming aimlessly even as the incident was reported to the foresters.

“After we received the information, the Rapid Response Team (RRT) started tracking the elephant calf and tried to reunite it with the herd. We tried to trace the original herd of this calf and continuous efforts for nearly five days were put in to reunite the calf and the mother,” explained Jaganath, Virajpet DCF, adding that the elephant calf was aggressive.

He confirmed that a herd of elephants was moving in close proximity to where the calf was found and the foresters left the calf at a distance to initiate the reunion. However, this herd moved away even as the effort to trace the herd continues.

“The RRT staff, alongside estate labourers and helpers from a private coffee estate, are still involved in combing operations. They are tracking the movements of the calf. The elephant calf is healthy and it can feed for itself, as coffee beans and traces of bamboo shoots were found in its dung. The calf will survive on its own. However, we are tracing its movement to ensure its safety,” he added. 

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / April 05th, 2024

Special Puja Offered At Talacauvery For Rain

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

Madikeri:

Following severe drought condition in the State including Kodagu district, special puja was performed at Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple and Talacauvery, the birth place of River Cauvery in the district today, praying for a good spell of rain, said M.B. Devaiah, President of Sri Kaaveramme Kodava Amma Kodava Hitarakshana Charitable Trust.

Devaiah said, “Mother Cauvery should show mercy on us to come out of the present drought situation. The devotees, who came from various parts of the State have offered puja at Talacauvery.”

By performing puja, we prayed for rainfall and as per the advise of tantris (priests) we did yelaneeru (tender coconut) abhisheka during the puja. All the devotees took part in the puja rituals. Following drought in the State, people, livestock and wildlife are facing severe water scarcity. Kodagu had last witnessed such a severe drought condition in the year 1924. In the later years, the district had witnessed copious rainfall contributing to better agrarian output.

Now, we have been witnessing severe drought, leading to drying up of rivers and other water bodies. The Governments should be blamed for the current situation, for taking up massive deforestation by cutting trees arbitrarily in the name of development works. The people, livestock and animals are feeling the pinch, crying for water, said Devaiah. Prominent leaders of Sri Kaaveramme Kodava Amma Kodava Hitarakshana Charitable Trust Manu Muddappa, M.K. Aiyanna, Nandakumar, Somaiah and others were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 03rd, 2024

Actress Daisy Bopanna Buys Ducati Monster: Names Superbike ‘Anandi’ (Video)

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , ,

Actors buying expensive bikes is a common thing in India; however, we have a few actresses from the industry who have shown their love for two-wheelers in the past. Indian actress Daisy Bopanna is one such example. The actress, who is popular in the Tamil and Kannada film industry, recently took delivery of her brand-new Ducati Monster superbike. Not only did she buy a new bike, but she also gave it a nickname. She calls it “Anandi.”

The video has been shared by Daisy Bopanna on her Instagram page. The actress posted the video with a caption, “Officially my baby now. Named her “Anandi” – my gateway to heaven. Seriously such a pleasurable bike. Crazy speed, absolutely comfortable, just sheer bliss. Can’t question a @ducatiinfinity. Thank you, my fef @i.am.amyth.”

The Monster brand of Ducati is almost 25 years old, and under this brand, Ducati offers naked sports bikes. The model bought by Daisy here is the current generation model which was launched in the market back in 2021. The motorcycle features an updated exterior design, looking a lot leaner than the previous version.

The headlight design and the ring-type LED DRLs are new additions. Ducati replaced the trellis frame with an aluminum frame and an aluminum swingarm inspired by the Panigale V4. The sub-frame of the Monster is made of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP), making it stronger and lighter than before.

The motorcycle comes with 43 mm USD forks at the front and an adjustable monoshock at the rear. The 17-inch wheels on this motorcycle are also said to be lighter than before. At the front, the Monster gets twin 320 mm discs, and rear braking duties are handled by a 245 mm disc. Ducati is offering features like ABS, cornering ABS, power launch, traction control, and wheelie control, along with ride-by-wire and three riding modes – Sport, Touring, and Urban.

Coming to the heart, the Ducati Monster is powered by a 937-cc, L-twin, liquid-cooled engine. This is the same engine that does duty on the HyperMotard and Ducati SuperSport. This engine generates 110 Bhp and 93 Nm of peak torque in the Monster. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and also comes with a bi-directional quick shifter as standard.

The price for a brand-new Ducati Monster 937 starts at Rs 12.94 lakh, ex-showroom, and goes up to Rs 15.95 lakh, ex-showroom. We are not sure which one the actress actually bought in this case.

Biker Women

Manju Warrier with her BMW R 1250 GS

While we have seen many actors on the road with their expensive motorcycles, we have rarely seen actresses with an interest in two-wheelers. In Bollywood, we have Gul Panag, who owns a couple of motorcycles like Royal Enfield Electra, BMW F650 Funduro, Triumph Bonneville, and a Jawa 42. Other actresses like Sonakshi Sinha, Kalki Koechlin, and Divyanka Tripathi have also been spotted riding bikes.

If you come down to the South Indian film industry, especially Malayalam, we have Manju Warrier , who recently got her two-wheeler license. She fell in love with motorcycles during a trip with Tamil actor Ajith to the Himalayas. Soon after returning, she bought herself a brand-new BMW R1250 GS adventure tourer motorcycle.

source: http://www.cartoq.com / CarToq / Home> Bike News / by Ajeesh Kuttan / April 02nd, 2024

Kundyolanda Cup Family Hockey Fest Begins In Kodagu

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

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

Bopanna-Ebden clinch Miami Open title, return to world No. 1 ranking

Amazing Feats, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Sports, World Opinion, ,

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