Tag Archives: Virajpet

Wake Up In The Coffee Fields: The Charm Of Coorg’s Plantation Escapes

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

Plantation stays in Coorg offer immersive escapes set within working coffee estates. Blending heritage bungalows, villas and homely retreats, they invite travellers to slow down and experience life shaped by nature, mist, and coffee culture.

Shutterstock : Book a stay in the coffee and pepper plantations of Coorg

Coorg’s plantation stays sit within working coffee and spice estates, offering quiet retreats shaped by the landscape. From heritage bungalows to hillside cottages, each stay reflects a slower rhythm of life rooted in nature, local culture, and the everyday workings of the plantation.

Old Kent Estates & Spa, Madikeri

Old Kent Estates & Spa was established in 1864. Photo: oldkentestates/Instagram

Set within a 200-acre coffee and spice estate in Suntikoppa, Old Kent Estates & Spa offers a refined plantation retreat shaped by Coorg’s colonial past. Established in 1864 by British Lieutenant Colonel WR Wright, the property preserves the character of a historic planter’s residence while introducing contemporary comforts. Surrounded by coffee bushes, cardamom groves and towering teak trees, the estate remains deeply connected to the landscape that defines Kodagu.

Design & Spaces

  • The estate blends British colonial architecture with Tudor Revival influences, featuring deep verandahs, period detailing and heritage-inspired interiors.
  • The restored nineteenth-century bungalow, known as The Lodge, houses a library, games room, home theatre, and a formal dining space.
  • Walking trails designed by Italian mountaineer Lorenzo Gariano wind through coffee, cardamom and pepper plantations shaded by teak, rosewood, and mahogany trees.
  • Accommodation includes a mix of heritage lodge rooms and expansive English-style cottages set across the plantation. The cottages feature private gardens, spacious living areas, and large bathrooms equipped with jacuzzis, rain showers, and traditional bucket baths.

Amenities

  • Guests can explore guided plantation trails, birdwatching routes and nature walks across the estate’s 200 acres.
  • The property also offers a spa, movie room, library, outdoor games and telescope-assisted stargazing experiences.
  • Dining at The Perch and Gordon’s Saloon focuses on multi-cuisine fare alongside freshly ground estate coffee and locally sourced ingredients.

The Information

Address: Thaikappa Estate, Horoor Post, Old Kent Estate Rd, Suntikoppa, Kodagu, Karnataka 571237

Room Rates: Approximately INR 7,000–12,000 per night, depending on season, taxes and inclusions

Website: www.oldkentresorts.com

Evolve Back Coorg

Evolve Back Coorg offers a deeply immersive plantation stay – Photo: evolvebackcoorg/Instagram

Set within a 300-acre working coffee and spice estate near Virajpet, Evolve Back Coorg offers a deeply immersive plantation stay shaped by the landscape of Kodagu. Formerly known as Orange County, the resort combines eco-conscious luxury with traditional Kodava design design and a strong connection to plantation life. Surrounded by dense greenery, the property focuses on quiet, nature-led experiences rather than overt indulgence.

Design & Spaces

  • The resort draws inspiration from traditional Kodava architecture, with tiled roofs, carved wooden doors, rustic interiors and earthy textures that blend seamlessly into the surrounding plantations.
  • Accommodation includes Lily Pool Villas and Heritage Pool Villas, featuring private pools, spacious living areas, four-poster beds, red oxide flooring and plantation-facing sit-outs designed for privacy and quiet.
  • Guided plantation walks, coffeeology sessions and birdwatching trails allow guests to engage closely with the estate’s coffee and spice-growing landscape.

Amenities

  • Dining options include The Granary for multi-cuisine fare and Peppercorn, a speciality grill restaurant overlooking the plantation lake.
  • The property also features the Ayura Ayurvedic centre, infinity and family pools, a reading lounge and a Coffee and Culture Museum dedicated to Coorg’s plantation heritage.

The Information

Address: Chikkana Halli Estate, Karadigodu Post, Siddapur, Virajpet, Kodagu, Karnataka 571253
Room Rates: Rates generally start from approximately INR 29,750–35,000 per night per couple, including accommodation, breakfast, dinner and taxes. Seasonal offers for longer stays may include resort credits and discounted pricing.
Website: www.evolveback.com/coorg/

The Tamara Coorg

The resort combines eco-conscious luxury with a strong sense of place / Photo: thetamaracoorg/Instagram

Perched more than 3,500 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats, The Tamara Coorg offers an immersive plantation retreat within a 180-acre coffee, cardamom and pepper estate. The resort combines eco-conscious luxury with a strong sense of place, allowing guests to experience the rhythms of estate life while surrounded by dense forest and rolling hills. With sustainability at its core, the property focuses on quiet, nature-led hospitality shaped by the landscape of Coorg.

Design & Spaces

The resort features 56 cottages built on timber stilts to preserve the natural terrain, with architecture inspired by traditional Kerala design and crafted largely from Canadian spruce wood.

Accommodation ranges from Luxury Cottages to spacious suites with private Jacuzzis, all featuring large sundecks overlooking forest canopies, hillsides and seasonal waterfalls.

Plantation walks, coffee-tasting sessions and the signature Blossom to Brew experience introduce guests to the estate’s coffee-growing heritage, while The Verandah — a restored nineteenth-century workers’ residence — now serves as a library and tasting space.

Amenities

Guided treks, birdwatching trails, forest therapy walks and seasonal waterfall explorations form a key part of the experience at the resort.

Dining focuses on fresh, estate-grown ingredients and regional Kodava cuisine, alongside a range of Indian and international dishes.

Sustainability initiatives include organic farming, waste management systems and a no-plastic philosophy integrated across the property.

The Information

Address: The Tamara Coorg, Kabbinakad Estate, Yevakapadi, Napoklu, Madikeri, Karnataka 571212
Room Rates: Rates generally start from approximately INR 25,245 per night for two adults, with pricing varying by cottage category and season.
Website: www.thetamara.com/coorg-resort/

Amni Estate

Amni Estates offers a deeply secluded stay centred on simplicity, nature and slow living / Photo: amni.coorg/Instagram

Hidden within a coffee plantation in the hills of Coorg, Amni Estate offers a deeply secluded stay centred on simplicity, nature and slow living. Family-run and entirely off-grid, the property trades conventional luxury for silence, rugged beauty and an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape. With its antique-filled interiors and misty plantation setting, the estate feels closer to a private countryside retreat than a typical homestay.

Design & Spaces

The property features stone cottages built across grassy slopes in the Balyaatra range, designed to blend naturally into the plantation landscape.

Interiors are layered with antiques collected over decades, including Victorian lamp posts, cast iron fountains and reclaimed railway sleepers that give the estate its old-world character.

Accommodation is centred around a two-bedroom cottage suited to small groups, with quiet corners, hammocks and open spaces that encourage guests to slow down and settle into estate life.

Amenities

  • Guided walks through the coffee and spice plantations offer a closer look at the estate’s flora, seasonal produce and surrounding forests.
  • Guests can spend their time fishing in the pond, gathering around bonfires or simply exploring the grounds alongside Zeiss, the estate’s well-known resident dog.
  • Meals are home-cooked and rooted in traditional Kodava cuisine, with family recipes and locally sourced ingredients forming the heart of the dining experience.

The Information

Address: Guyya (near Galibeedu), Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka
Room Rates: Rates are generally around INR 12,000+ per night for two, inclusive of meals and curated activities, depending on season and group size.
Website / Instagram: @amni.coorg

Silver Brook Estate

Silver Brook Estate is a quiet homestay shaped by forested greens, silver oaks and a stream / Photo: silverbrook.homestay/Instagram

Tucked into a 6-acre coffee plantation in Kadagadal, near Madikeri, Silver Brook Estate is a quiet homestay shaped by forested greens, silver oaks and a stream that runs through the property. The setting feels intimate and unhurried, with bird calls, plantation paths and open sit-outs defining the rhythm of the stay. It is designed for travellers looking for a simple, nature-led break close to town.

Design & Spaces

  • The estate is spread across coffee plantations shaded by silver oak, pepper vines and fruit trees, with a natural brook running through the grounds.
  • Accommodation is set within a main bungalow and select rooms, designed for small groups, couples and families seeking a homely plantation setting.
  • Common areas include a library, hammocks and open garden spaces that encourage slow, outdoor living within the estate.

Amenities

  • Home-style Kodava meals are a highlight, with traditional dishes such as pandi curry and pepper chicken served by the hosts.
  • The property supports relaxed activities like estate walks, birdwatching and bonfire evenings in the open courtyard.
  • Its location makes it convenient for day trips to nearby attractions such as Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp and Nagarhole National Park.

The Information

Address: Kadagadal, near Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka

Room Rates: Typically range between INR 5,800–7,400 per night for double occupancy, often including breakfast (season and room type dependent).

Website: www.silverbrookestate.in/home

FAQs

What is a plantation stay in Coorg?
A stay set within working coffee or spice estates, offering quiet surroundings, nature views and a slower pace compared to typical resorts.

Best time to visit?
October to March is ideal for pleasant weather. Monsoon (June to September) is lush but rain-heavy.

How do you reach these stays?
Most require private taxis or self-drive vehicles, as they are located outside town areas and deep within estates.

What activities are offered?
Plantation walks, birdwatching, coffee tours, spa treatments, and nature experiences are most common.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season and weekends due to limited rooms.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, insect repellent, and rain protection during monsoon.

source: http://www.outlooktraveller.com / Outlook Traveller / Home> Story / by OT Staff / curated by Anuradha Sengupta / May 18th, 2026

Institute of Dental Implants Offers Advanced Education Program May 15-16

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Dr. Aeklavya Panjali conducting hands-on courses throughout the year in Cicero, New York.

The New York Implant Institute has provided excellence in dental implant education since 2007 at its dental implant institute in Cicero, NY, and the next course will take place May 15 to May 16 with limited seats available.

Aeklavya Panjali, DDS, MS, FAGD, DICOI, who is an international speaker on dental implants, teaches the courses. He is certified in IV sedation dentistry, invisalign, dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. 

Prof. Dr. Al Panjali earned his DDS at NYU College of Dentistry and went on to complete a Master’s in Oral Implantology at Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany—one of Europe’s leading implantology programs. He holds Diplomate status with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)—a credential held by fewer than 3,000 dentists worldwide. He serves as a Clinical Professor at the Coorg Institute of Dental Sciences and has lectured on 4 continents.

The New York Implant Institute offer hands-on implant training through its dental implant CE courses and live surgery courses that stay with you for life. Join these seminars and take the next step in advancing your skills with implant courses for dentists.

The May 15-16 course is a Level 3 two-day hands-on course worth 16 CE credits, titled “Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF), With GBR (Guided Bone Regeneration) and Ridge Augmentation.” This is an advanced course for implant site development with autologous growth factors.

Other courses later this year include:

• LEVEL 4 – Live Patient Surgical Course – 5‑Day Intensive Program Overview

July 1–6, 2026 – 2 seats available

August 9–14, 2026 – Weekday – (Monday–Friday) November 4–9, 2026

• LEVEL 5 – IMPLANT PROSTHODONTICS

• LEVEL 6 ALL ON “X” – The Workflow with Hands on Clinical Sessions. June 12 – 13, 2026

• LEVEL 7 – LIVE SURGERY FOR ALL ON “X” WITH SAME DAY CONVERSION

August 28 – 29, 2026

DIGITAL WORKFLOW FOR FULL ARCH WITH NEODENT – A HANDS ON COURSE

October 10 – 17th, 2026 

For more information call (201) 381-7990 or visit nyimplantinstitute.com

source: http://www.dentistrytoday.com / Dentistry Today / Home> Dentistry Today > Industry News / Todays Dental News / May 06th, 2026

26th Kodava Family Hockey Festival: Kulletira trounces Cheppudira family to clinch Chenanda Cup

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Madikeri:

Amid loud cheers from a packed crowd of over 25,000, the Kulletira family team clinched the ‘Chenanda Cup’ at the 26th Kodava Family Hockey Tournament defeating the Cheppudira family 3–1 yesterday.

The final of the month-long Kodava Family Hockey Festival was held yesterday at General Thimmaiah Stadium in Cheriyaparambu near Napoklu. With this win, Kulletira lifted their fourth title in the prestigious tournament.

The summit clash saw an evenly fought first half, with Cheppudira earning several penalty corners but failing to convert them. Both teams scored once in the third quarter to keep the contest open. However, Kulletira took control in the final quarter, striking twice to seal the victory.

Roshan Lokesh, Avaneesh Mandappa and Shubham Chettiyappa scored a goal each for Kulletira, while Vachan Chinnappa netted the lone goal for Cheppudira.

The winning Kulletira family team was awarded Rs. 3 lakh and a silver rolling trophy. Runners-up Cheppudira family received Rs. 2 lakh and a trophy, while Paradanda family, who finished third, received Rs. 1 lakh.

The festival concluded with the ceremonial handover of the flag to the Ajjikuttira family, who will host the 27th edition in 2027. The Chenanda family, organisers of this year’s event, handed over the flag.

Mandaviya assures support

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, who was the chief guest, assured financial support to promote sports, stating that such assistance is the Government’s responsibility and not charity.

He said he had long heard about the Kodava community’s passion for hockey and was glad to witness it first hand. Referring to the International Olympic Committee’s vision of sports as a unifying force, he noted that the Kodava community had upheld this spirit  for generations.

“This land has produced 18 Olympians. It is the duty of both the Centre and the State to              nurture Kodagu’s sporting talent,” he said. He added that sports should remain free from politics and promised to promote shooting in the region by identifying and training young talent.

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar said the festival reflects the growing sporting culture in the country. Highlighting Kodagu’s contribution to Indian sports, he said the family hockey tradition inspires youth, encourages women’s participation and strengthens national unity.

He urged the Centre to set up a shooting academy in Kodagu under the Khelo India scheme.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna termed the festival a model initiative for the district. He said work on an 11-acre sports training centre at V. Badaga village in Virajpet has already begun with State support and appealed to the Centre for assistance in building a stadium.

Kodagu Hockey Academy, President Pandanda K. Bopanna, retired Justice Ajjikuttira S. Bopanna, SLN Coffee CEO Saheed Singh, Dr. Santosh Uthappa of Narayana Hospital, Sports Authority of Karnataka Vice-Chairman Cheppudira Arun Machaiah and others   were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 03rd, 2026

Coromandel International Marks Milestone with 1200th Gromor Store Launch in Coorg

Agriculture, Business & Economy, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kodagu, Karnataka: 

Coromandel International Limited, one of India’s leading agri-solutions providers, announced the inauguration of its 1200th Gromor retail store at Arji Village in Virajpet Taluk, Coorg, Karnataka. Branded as ‘Namma Gromor’, the store marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey of strengthening its last-mile connect with the farming community.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. IK Anil, Founder – Kuttappa Coffee, Co-founder, Indian Vanilla Initiative and Editor-in-Chief – Coffeeland News, in presence of Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, Coromandel International Limited, along with senior leadership team.

Launched as a coffee specialty store, the outlet is strategically located to serve key coffee-growing belts across Virajpet Taluk, including Arji and surrounding villages, as well as prominent estate clusters across the Coorg region. The store aims to engage closely with progressive farmers, estate owners and grower communities, creating a strong localized impact across 20–25 villages.

“The launch of our 1200th Gromor store is a proud milestone in Coromandel’s journey of empowering farmers through integrated agri-solutions. With the Coorg region being a key hub for coffee cultivation, this specialty store reflects our commitment to deliver localized, crop-specific expertise. Our focus remains on strengthening farmer connect, improving productivity and enabling sustainable livelihoods through a combination of physical and digital interventions.”, said Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, Coromandel International Limited.

Mr. IK Anil, Founder – Kuttappa Coffee, Co-founder, Indian Vanilla Initiative and Editor-in-Chief – Coffeeland News said, “My association with the Murugappa Group spans generations, as a third-generation coffee planter, my bond with this group transcends business and is rooted in mutual respect and shared values. What has always distinguished Murugappa Group is its unwavering commitment to quality and integrity, sustained across decades without compromise. That steadfastness has earned the trust of generations like mine. As the Namma Gromor Centre now expands into the plantation segment for the first time in Coorg, I sincerely hope it will bring forward new technologies and meaningful advancements that empower planters in Coorg, helping them navigate evolving agricultural challenges with confidence, built on the same fair, genuine, and dependable values that have long strengthened Coromandel Retail’s bond with the farming community.“

Since its foray into rural retail in 2007 under the ‘My Gromor’ brand, Coromandel has built one of India’s largest agri-retail networks. With the launch of the 1200th store, the company now operates a robust, company-owned and company-operated network across five states—850 Mana Gromor stores in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, 270 Namma Gromor stores in Karnataka, 31 Namadu Gromor stores in Tamil Nadu, and 49 Apla Gromor stores in Maharashtra—serving over 5 million farmers.

Backed by a dedicated workforce of over 4,500 employees, the Gromor network plays a pivotal role in delivering extension services, agronomic support and quality agri-inputs, helping farmers enhance productivity and improve farm outcomes.

Each ‘My Gromor’ centre functions as a comprehensive agri-solutions hub, offering a wide range of products including fertilizers, crop protection solutions, biologicals, cattle feed and farm implements. In addition, farmers benefit from value-added services such as soil and carbon testing, drone spraying, agronomy advisory, and access to farmer-focused insurance solutions.

The retail ecosystem is further strengthened by the MyGromor mobile app, which provides farm-specific advisory, real-time pricing, and AI-powered pest and disease detection. With over 1 million downloads, the platform is enhancing both accessibility and transparency for farmers.

About Coromandel

Coromandel International Limited is amongst India’s pioneers and leading Agri solutions provider, offering diverse products and services across the farming value chain. It operates in two major segments: Nutrient and other allied businesses and Crop Protection. These include Fertilisers, Crop Protection, Bio Products, Specialty Nutrients and Organic businesses. The Company is 2nd largest manufacturer and marketer of Phosphatic fertilisers in India. The Company’s Crop Protection products are marketed in India as well as in international geographies, offering a wide range of technical and formulation products. The Specialty Nutrients business of the Company focuses on water soluble fertilisers, secondary & micronutrients and Nano fertilisers products. The Company is a leading marketer of Organic fertilisers in India. The Bio Products business of the company focusses on plant extractions for various applications. It also operates a network of 1200 rural retail outlets across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Through these Retail outlets, the Company offers agri inputs and farming services including crop advisory, soil testing and farm mechanization to around 3 million farmers. The Company currently has 8 R&D centers and a strong Regulatory setup, supporting the businesses in process development and new product introduction. The Company currently has 21 manufacturing facilities, spread widely across India, producing a wide range of Nutrient and Crop Protection products, which are marketed through an extensive network of dealers and its own retail centers.

The Company clocked a turnover of Rs. 24,444 Crores during FY24-25. Its efforts towards environment have been well recognized by international organizations like UNDP and has also been voted as one of the ten greenest companies in India by TERI. Coromandel is a part of the Murugappa Group with a turnover of INR 90,178 crore.

For more details, visit www.coromandel.biz 

About Murugappa Group

A 125-year-old conglomerate with presence across India and the world, the INR 902 billion (90,178 crore) Murugappa Group has diverse businesses in agriculture, engineering, financial services and more. 

The Group has 10 listed companies: Carborundum Universal Limited, CG Power & Industrial Solutions Limited, Cholamandalam Financial Holdings Limited, Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Company Limited, Coromandel International Limited, E.I.D.-Parry (India) Limited, NACL Industries Limited, Shanthi Gears Limited, Tube Investments of India Limited, and Wendt (India) Limited. Other major companies include Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Limited and Parry Agro Industries Limited. Brands such as Ajax, Hercules, BSA, Montra, Montra Electric, Mach City, Chola, Chola MS, CG Power, Shanthi Gears, CUMI, Gromor, Paramfos, Parry’s are part of the Group’s illustrious stable. 

Abrasives, technical ceramics, electrominerals, electric vehicles, auto components, fans, transformers, signalling equipment for railways, bicycles, fertilisers, sugar, tea and several other products make up the Group’s business interests. 

Guided by the Five lights — integrity, passion, quality, respect and responsibility — and a culture of professionalism, the Group has a workforce of 94,041 employees.

For more details, visit www.murugappa.com

source: http://www.coromandel.biz / Coramandel / Home> Press Release / April 22nd, 2026

Last rites of soldier Althaf performed with State honours in Virajpet

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Army personnel handing over the tricolour to the wife of Hawaldar Althaf Ahmed, who died in Kashmir on February 22. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangemen

Althaf Ahmed | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The last rites of 37-year-old Indian Army Hawildar Althaf Ahmed, who died in a blizzard while on duty in Kashmir, were performed in his native in Meenupete in Kodagu district’s Virajpet taluk with state honours on Saturday.

The body of Althaf Ahmed, who had died on February 22, arrived in his native in Kodagu early on Saturday as its departure by air from Srinagar was delayed owing to bad weather. The body was kept at Eidgah Maidan in Meenupete for the public to pay their last respects before it was laid to rest at the burial ground as per Islamic rituals.

Virajpet MLA K.G. Bopaiah, MLCs Suja Kushalappa and Veena Achaiah, besides Deputy Commissioner B.C. Satish, Kodagu Superintendent of Police M.A. Aiyappa and other senior officials of the district administration were among the large number of people, who paid their last respects.

According to sources, Althaf Ahmed grew up in Meenupete and completed his SSLC in St Anne’s School in Virajpet and Pre University Education at the Virajpet Government Junior College. He later joined the Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) regiment. He had been serving the Army in various places since the last 19 years.

While guarding the border in Kashmir, Althaf Ahmed was caught in a blizzard on February 22 and died.

After the ceremonial gun salute during the funeral of the martyred solider, Army personnel handed over handed over the tricolour that draped Althaf Ahmed’s body and his uniform to his wife and two children. He leaves behind his mother, wife, a son and a daughter.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Special Correspondent / February 26th, 2022

Workshop on orthodontic mechanics gets under way

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Delegates during the workshop at the Coorg Institute of Dental Sciences, Virajpet, Kodagu.

A four-day pan-global hands-on workshop on ‘Tip-edge plus orthodontic mechanics’ was inaugurated at the Department of Orthodontics and Dento-facial Orthopaedics in the Coorg Institute of Dental Sciences (CIDS), Virajpet, Kodagu, on Tuesday.

It was attended by 25 delegates from India, Malaysia, Sweden, and Germany.

International speakers and course directors, Urban Hagg, Director of Clinical Education, University of Copenhagen, Denmark, and Margareta Bendeus, multi-specialist practitioner in Landskrona, Sweden, were mentors at the workshop, according to information received from the CIDS here on Wednesday.

Three doctors from Afghanistan, Abdul Ghafar Gayur (plastic surgeon from Kabul), Habibullah Atif (general surgeon from Badakhshan) and Sebghatullah Natory (maxillofacial surgeon from Kunduz) performed 15 cleft surgeries at the cleft centre and the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery at the CIDS.

Getz Ehmann, maxillofacial surgeon from Hamburg, and Ulrike Lamle, cleft ENT surgeon from Berlin, were also present. Sunil Muddaiah, Dean, CIDS, addressed the gathering.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru /by K Jeevan Chinnappa / February 19th, 2015

Our waste, our responsibility: A Kodagu school is teaching its students garbology

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Deviah Memorial Preparatory (DMP) School is one of the few schools in Karnataka to teach garbology, the study of a community or culture by analysing its waste.

Our waste, our responsibility: A Kodagu school is teaching its students garbology

Multiple hands shoot up in the air, almost instinctively, when the teacher asks the question, “What are the ten categories of waste?”

Subaiah, a scrawny Class 4 student, begins answering the question even before he is prompted. “Paper waste, plastic waste, glass waste, metal waste, construction waste, mixed waste, recyclable waste…”

At this point, Shavari, a Class 5 student standing next to him, cuts in to add, “Hazardous waste, organic waste and e-waste,” to the dismay of the boy.

Inside the Deviah Memorial Preparatory (DMP) School in Kodagu district of Karnataka, this is now a routine after the school introduced Garbology lessons for the students of classes four and five in 2017.

Tucked away just off the Mysuru-Virajpet road in Bittangala village, DMP is one of the few schools in Karnataka to teach garbology – the study of a community or culture by analysing its waste.

Crafts made out of recycled materials hanging in the school premises

The school was founded by Mundachadira Gangu Deviah in 1981 and is one of the oldest residential schools in Kodagu district. According to MM Deviah, the administrator of the school, the staff has always placed importance on protecting the environment. In the school, there is an almost zero-tolerance policy towards plastic.

“We don’t even allow parents to send items to their children in plastic covers. There have been times when we have returned parcels sent to the school which contain chocolates wrapped in plastic,” Deviah says.

Separate dustbins at the school

The school hopes to set an example to its students by managing the waste created in its own premises effectively. The school building is filled crafts made out of upcycled and recycled plastic. The school maintains separate dustbins for plastic, paper and hazardous waste. The students and teachers grow fruits and vegetables in a field close to the school which is used to cook most of the food prepared by the school. A soapnut liquid is used in place of handwash while natural loofahs are used to scrub the body instead of plastic ones. Kitchen waste generated in the school is also turned into compost and the school is planning to make invitations for their annual day programme using recycled newspaper.

“Even before we began garbology lessons, students were introduced to the idea of reducing and managing waste,” explains Nina Chengappa, a teacher at the school.

Deviah Memorial Preparatory School, Kodagu

In 2017, garbology was introduced in the class 4 and 5 syllabus. The classes for the subject are held every Tuesday and they are based on material provided by Wasteless, non-profit social enterprise that focuses on innovative education for sustainable waste management. Students are taught about waste management, the different grades of plastic, how much waste is generated in the production of paper, among other topics.

Composting at the school

“We conduct the sessions in such a way that the theory and practical classes go hand in hand. For instance, we teach the students about a land dump and then we take them to a land dump the following week so that they can actually see it. It is not enough that the students visualise it, they need to experience it. But, they are not asked to handle the waste, of course,” says Pavan Aiyappa, the garbology teacher at the school.

According to Pavan, the lessons are designed to create a sense of responsibility among students about managing waste. “The idea is that if the students understand the harmful effects of not managing waste, they will understand it is their responsibility to manage it. We want to teach them that garbage is their own responsibility,” says Pavan.

The lessons are not only changing the attitude of students towards waste but it is also giving the teachers plenty to think about. “One of the students suggested to us that the school should stop serving biscuits wrapped in plastic during tea break and instead give fresh fruits since it creates less waste. We realised then that the message is reaching the students,” says Nina.

The students in the school are also changing the attitudes of their family members. They have also enacted plays and recited songs in other schools in the district about managing waste responsibly. “The students are telling their family members not to litter, people listen when children tell them something and that becomes a habit over time and this leads to right choices. The students also perform plays in other schools to spread the word of reducing waste. They have performed in six government schools so far reaching an audience of around 800 students,” adds Pavan.

The students cleaned and re-painted a bus-stand on the main road in Bittangala on September 15, World Clean-up Day. They hope to lead by example and spread the message of taking responsibility for the waste created.

“We want to tell students that the waste we create is our responsibility,” says Deviah, before adding, “Even before we started garbology lessons, we used to teach the students here to love nature because we don’t destroy what we love.”

Photographs by: Dhruv Khanna

source: http://www.thenewsminute.com / The NEWS Minute / Home> Karnataka / by Prajwal Bhat / Photos by Dhruv Khanna / October 05th, 2018

Who Is Madan Mandanna? Meet the Supportive Father of Rashmika Mandanna

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

Madan Mandanna, father of Rashmika Mandanna, has stayed away from the spotlight but has always supported her. Here’s everything you need to know about her father and the role he played in her journey.

Image Credit : Instagram

A Pillar of Support

Madan Mandanna, father of actress Rashmika Mandanna, has mostly stayed away from the public eye, but he has been a strong support for his daughter throughout her journey. Born in a Kodava Hindu family in Virajpet, Kodagu, Karnataka, he played a key role in shaping Rashmika’s values and career.

Image Credit : Instagram

Entrepreneurial Roots

Madan is a successful businessman who runs a coffee estate and owns a function hall called Serenity in Virajpet. His work shows the family’s entrepreneurial spirit, long before Rashmika became a household name in films.

image credit : X

Family First

Though he avoids the limelight, Rashmika often credits her father for teaching her important life lessons like hard work, humility, and determination. These values have helped her navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry successfully.

image credit : Instagram

Close-Knit Family

Madan is married to Suman Mandanna, a homemaker. Together, they raised Rashmika and her much younger sister, Shiman Mandanna. Rashmika occasionally shares glimpses of her parents on social media, showing the love and close bond in their family.

From Humble Beginnings to Stardom

Despite her fame as a pan-India actress, Rashmika often reflects on her modest upbringing. Her family faced financial struggles, but Madan’s guidance and support were crucial in helping her rise from Virajpet to becoming one of India’s most popular and loved stars.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet News / Home> English> Entertainment / by Nancy Tiwari / March 05th, 2026

Karnataka MP writes to Centre seeking fund allocation for Cauvery conservation

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The MP highlighted the immediate need to prevent pollution to the river and sought fund allocation in the union budget for conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

Cauvery River image used for representation purposes only.(File Photo | Express

Madikeri :

Mysuru–Kodagu MP Yaduveer Wadiyar has written to the Union Minister of Jal Shakti seeking central government support for the conservation of the River Cauvery in Kodagu.

The MP highlighted the immediate need to prevent pollution to the river and sought fund allocation in the union budget for Cauvery river conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

The letter stressed on the immediate need for conservation and development of the riverbanks of Cauvery across the district. The MP also pointed out that the river has become a victim of increased pollution due to the flow of untreated wastewater from houses and commercial setups and from encroachments alongside the riverbanks.

“These issues are affecting water quality, public health, river ecology and the livelihoods of people dependent on the river,” the MP noted.

He urged the union minister to order a comprehensive survey of the boundaries of the River Cauvery in the district to enable eviction of the encroachments, followed by rehabilitation and systematic riverbank development in a planned manner.

The MP also highlighted the need to regulate activities along riverbanks in Madikeri, Virajpet and Kushalnagar taluks while also requesting the establishment of scientific sanitation and drainage facilities.

Wadiyar also sought a focused intervention to regulate tourist activities along the riverbanks and address recurring flood issues. He urged the need for eco-friendly riverfront development.

Mentioning the interstate importance of the River Cauvery, he urged the minister to formulate a central government-supported phased action plan for conservation and development of the Cauvery.

He has requested funds in the forthcoming budget for Cauvery river conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / January 09th, 2026

Rashmika Mandanna Becomes Kodagu’s No.1 Taxpayer; Find Out What She Paid

Artists of Kodagu (wef. January 21st, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rashmika Mandanna has added another remarkable achievement to her name by emerging as the highest taxpayer in Kodagu district, creating pride among locals and fans while proving her success goes far beyond the film industry.

From Kirik Party to National Stardom

Rashmika Mandanna, fondly called the “National Crush,” has come a long way since her breakthrough in the Kannada film Kirik Party. Today, she stands tall as one of India’s most successful actresses, making a strong impact in South cinema and Bollywood with consistent box office successes.

The Rise of a Box Office Queen

With multiple hit films across languages, Rashmika has earned the title of “Box Office Queen.” Her strong screen presence, versatility, and audience connect have made most of her films commercially successful, placing her among the most bankable stars in the Indian film industry today.

Pride of Kodagu District

Hailing from Virajpet in Kodagu district, Rashmika has become a source of immense pride for her hometown. Kodagu has produced several notable personalities, but Rashmika’s achievements have set her apart, elevating her status beyond cinema and making her a standout figure from the region.

Biggest Taxpayer in Kodagu

In a remarkable achievement, Rashmika Mandanna has emerged as the highest income taxpayer in Kodagu district. She has reportedly paid ₹4.69 crore in income tax for three quarters of the current financial year, securing the top position among all taxpayers in the district.

Marriage Buzz Continues

Apart from professional milestones, Rashmika is also in the news for personal reasons. Reports suggest she may soon marry actor Vijay Deverakonda, with rumors pointing to a February 26 wedding in Udaipur. However, no official confirmation has been made by either star yet.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet News, English / Home> Entertainment / by Nancy Tiwari / January 07th, 2025