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ILT20 2022-23: Veteran Robin Uthappa joins Dubai Capitals ahead of inaugural season: Check Out

ILT20 2022-23:  International League T20 (ILT20) franchise, Dubai Capitals (DC), have acquired the services of former India international Robin Uthappa for the…

ILT20 2022-23: 

International League T20 (ILT20) franchise, Dubai Capitals (DC), have acquired the services of former India international Robin Uthappa for the inaugural season. The 37-year-old Uthappa, who recently announced his retirement from the IPL, played the last two IPL seasons for CSK. The swashbuckling right-hander is set to join the Dubai-based ILT20 franchise and will look to replicate his success in the middle-east nation.

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As classy as it gets at Dubai Capitals. Here’s welcoming 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐛𝐢𝐞 to our family, now eager to see a few dancing down-the-track shots at the Dubai International,” the franchise shared the joining of Uthappa on their official Twitter handle.

ILT20 2022-23

Apart from Robin, several other big names will grace the tournament

In the IPL, Uthappa featured in 205 matches, scoring 4,952 runs with an average of 27.51. The Karnataka stalwart scored 27 half-centuries in his IPL career and registered his best score of 88 runs against RCB in April this year. Apart from Uthappa, star players like Kieron Pollard, Andre Russell, Eoin Morgan, Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga will take part in the maiden season of ILT20.

Dubai Capitals Team Squad 2023

The players who will be in the first UAE T20 League have been announced by Dubai Capitals, which is a branch of Delhi Capitals.

  • Rovman Powell (West Indies)
  • Robin Uthappa (India)
  • Hazratullah Zazai (Afghanistan)
  • Daniel Lawrence (England)
  • George Munsey (Scotland)
  • Bhanuka Rajapaksa (West Indies)
  • Rovman Powell (Sri Lanka)
  • Niroshan Dickwella (Sri Lanka)
  • Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
  • Dasun Shanaka (Sri Lanka)
  • Fabian Allen (West Indies)
  • Isuru Udana (Sri Lanka)
  • Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Afghanistan)
  • Dushmantha Chameera (Sri Lanka)
  • Fred Klaassen (Netherlands)
  • Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe)

source: http://www.insidesport.in / Inside Sport / Home> Cricket / by Pranchal Srivastava, Editor / December 15th, 2022

The Wild Cat’s Compendium: Cats Of All Tribes

Title : The Wild Cat’s Compendium / Author : Dr. Nima Poovaya Smith /Year : 2022 /Pages :  51 /Price : Rs. 449

(Kindle version)

Publisher: Caracal Publications, United Kingdom

Dr. Nima Poovaya-Smith (parental home Ammanichanda) has just launched a delightful book titled  The Wild Cat’s Compendium, which is a collection of 45 brilliantly crafted verses on 45 species of wild cats as well as few of the domestic ones. 

Composing poems is an art and Nima excels in succinctly portraying the feline species in all its glory. In a few apt words, the 45 poems read as fluidly as the graceful strides of the cats. 

     (Read the sample poem.)

Nima Poovaya-Smith in conversation with David Lascelles, 8th Earl of Harewood, during the launch of her book.

Cats of All Tribes

Cats of all tribes major, middling, minor, inlaid menace and glamour, damascened suits of shadow armour.

Your coats boast such stylish motifs. Spots, dots, rosettes, stripes, flecks, spirals.

Draw breath, there is more, of this feline allure. Marbled, banded, clouded, streaked, stippled, brindled.

Your fur a lush canvas for lavish mark-making. Each unique striation etched with precision. Nature’s artful illusion.

The guile of the design, woven into the dapple of sun and shade, dissolving into air without hint or sign.

Seeing you without knowing we do, even when face-to-face. Our deepest, murkiest selves in plain view to that occult feline gaze.

African Golden Cats: By Joseph Wolf

What is remarkable about this compendium is the in-depth research that has gone into the lives, habitat, behaviour, and appearance of each variety of cat.  Nima has been working on this book for quite a few years and has packed a great deal of information wonderfully crafted using her treasure trove of highly refined vocabulary. In addition, Nima has woven the grave threats these feline species face in the wild and that their primary detractors belong to the human species. In one of the poems, she has given a consciously chilling recipe for preparing tiger bone wine.   Hopefully those who indulge in such shameful practices will realise and shun their superstition-ridden beliefs.

In the Introduction to the book, Nima mentions about her (and mine) maternal grandparents’ home (in Palangala village, Kodagu), where tigers and other wild cats roamed close to human dwellings. During our childhood days we have heard several tiger tales from our shikar-loving uncles. Over the years, those childhood memories have expanded in Nima’s mind to bring out this wonderful collection of poems.

As a bonus, each poem is richly illustrated with paintings by several well-known artists.  One of the artists is Nima’s brother Sunil’s wife Sheila, an alumna of CAVA, Mysuru.

Nima earned her Ph.D in English literature from Mysore University under the guidance of Prof. U.R. Ananthamurthy who used to mention that Nima was one of his best students. She went on a scholarship to University of Leeds to pursue her post-doctoral studies. She has been a curator of several museums in the UK.  She was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2016 for her contribution in the field of arts and museums. She was appointed as Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire in 2020, which entails interacting with the British royal family.

Chinese Mountain Cat: By Sheila Ammanichanda

Currently Nima is a Senior Visiting Research Fellow, School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies, University of Leeds.

Wild Cats’ Compendium was launched at the Ilkley Literature Festival in October 2022. In the accompanying photograph, Nima is in conversation with David Lascelles, 8th Earl of Harewood (and second cousin of King Charles III), during the book launch.

Wild Cat’s Compendium is available on Amazon. However, currently only kindle version of the book is marketed in India: The Wild Cats’ Compendium: Cats of All Tribes eBook: Poovaya-Smith, Nima: Amazon.in: Kindle Store

Reading Wild Cat’s Compendium is an enriching experience. Every time you re-read a poem you learn something more. I rate this book as a Collectors’ Item.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles / by C.P. Belliappa / December 12th, 2022

‘Puthari’ On Dec. 7

Napoklu:

‘Puthari,’ the harvest festival of Kodagu, will be celebrated on  Dec. 7 as per the date decided at the Paadi Iguthappa Temple in Kakkabe.

Timings and date were decided based on calendars and astrology by the representatives of 13 families and the office-bearers of the Temple.

‘Nere kattuva’ ritual will be held at Paadi Iguthappa Temple at 7.20 pm on that day; reaping of new paddy crop (Kadiru) at 8.20 pm; distribution of prasadam at 9.20 pm.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / November 24th, 2022

Makkala Dasara inaugurated at Madikeri

Makkala Dasara or children’s dasara was inaugurated at Gandhi Maidan in Madikeri on Monday.

It was a platform for children to showcase their talents and the authorities had arranged a slew of cultural programmes to mark the occasion including clay modeling.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Life & Style> Homes & Gardens / by Venkatesh Bhat S 3162 / October 03rd, 2022

Varsha Bollamma’s ‘Tough’ Questions Entertain Fans, Followers

Actress Varsha Bollamma, who has acted in several critically acclaimed films in Tamil and Telugu, on Wednesday chose to have some fun with her followers on Instagram by putting out a video clip in which she was seen asking “tough questions” and also answering them.

Varsha Bollamma
Varsha Bollamma Instagram/ @varshabollamma

Taking to Instagram, the actress wrote: “After years of research, I bring to you the toughest questions to crack.!! #DontHate,” and posted the clip.

Some of the questions she asked and answered in the clip included:

“What did one volcano say to another?”

“I lava you.”

“What do you call a honey bee that is from the United States of America?

“A USB”.

“What do you call an ant that will never leave you no matter what you do?”

A PermanANT.”

“What do you call a honey bee that is not sure?”

“A MayBE.”

“Which sweet is never on time?”

“ChocoLATE, cos it is always late.”

On the work front, the actress will next be seen in the Telugu film ‘Swathimuthyam’, which is scheduled to hit screens on October 5.

source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook / Home> Art & Entertainment / by IANS / September 21st, 2022

Patriotic Fervour Marks I-Day Celebrations

Coorg Public School and PU College, Gonikoppal:

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations  began with hoisting of the Tricolour. Students dressed up as legendary freedom fighters revisited the milestones of historical journey from 1857  to 1947. The Copsians took part in a plethora of activities such as dances, songs, speeches and dance dramas. Principal Dr. Benny Kuriakose spoke about the significance of National Emblem and the Tricolour. The programme concluded with rendition of National Anthem.

Sarada Vilas College, Krishnamurthypuram:

To commemorate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Sarada Vilas College honoured six freedom fighters of Mysuru city and had organised a special talk on Freedom Movement in India and the planting of saplings in the campus.

Freedom fighters  S.L. Ramachandra,  Rangashetty, Dr. M. Somashekaraiah, B. Lingaiah, B. Puttanna, Y.C. Revanna, retd. Col. Ravi Shirahatti were feted. Dr. J. Anand, Dr. Yeshwanthkumar and Thejas Gowda introduced the freedom fighters. Prof. Shashikaka, retd. Botany Professor, introduced late freedom fighter Krishnamurthy, an alumnus of Sarada Vilas College. Dr. M. Devika, Principal, presided and said it was a blessing for the Institution to honour freedom fighters. She opined that patriotism must run into the blood and soul of the students so that each one can contribute to the nation. Secretary N. Chandrashekar and Governing Council Members Narasimha and Ramachandra were present.

University of Mysore History Professor R. Rajanna spoke about various phases of freedom struggle during 1857 to 1947.  M.N. Abhishek welcomed. Adhithya Bharadwaj compered. Darshan proposed a vote of thanks. Literary Committee Convenor Dr. Rekha was present.

JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru:

The National Flag was hoisted by Dr. B.S. Basavarajaiah, Rtd. Civil Engineer & Eminent academician, who was the  chief guest of the day along with Registrar, JSS AHER, Principals and staff of constituent colleges of  JSS AHER.

As part of Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, Mysore Heritage Round Table & Ladies Circle-109 had organised a Free Flag distribution programme at Kukkarahalli Lake in city. Veteran freedom fighter B. Lingaiah was the chief guest. Seen are (from left) 41 Er. C.V. Mahesh, Round Table Area-13 Chairman Tr. Ram, MHRT-109 Chairman Tr. V.K. Vaibhav, freedom fighter Lingaiah, MHLC-109 Chairperson Vinutha Dutt, Past Ladies Circle National President Cr. Namratha Shenoy, Tr. Deepak and IPC Tr. Kumarpal.

S.V.E.I. Institution, Vijayanagar 4th Stage:

T.N. Narasimha Murthy, Commissioner, City Municipal Council, Hootagalli, was the chief guest.  B. Shivalingappa, Hon.Secretary, S.V.E.I. presided. Dr. M.K. Potharaj, President, S.V.E.I., K.M. Rajashekar, Vice-President, T. Prabhakar Shetty, Treasurer, Shobha Rajashekar, Director, Lady members Komala Potharaj and Nuthan P. Shetty, Section Heads and parents were present. The programme started with March-past followed by band, flag hoisting and other cultural programmes including dance, song, karate, yoga and drill.

Nypunya School of Excellence, R.T. Nagar:

Retd. Bank Officer B. S. Narayana Gowda hoisted the Tricolour at the School premises during I-Day celebrations and addressed the gathering. Principal Shilpa Prashanth, Secretary Kautilya, teaching staff, students and parents were present. Various cultural programmes were presented on the occasion.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Gallery> PhotoNews / August 22nd, 2022

Koothi — a self-sustaining village in Karnataka’s Kodagu

‘One for All, All for One’ is the motto driving Koothi, a settlement in Kodagu district, which has a lesson or two to teach in self-governance.

Madikeri : 

In the sylvan vistas of Kodagu stands a village, small, yet tall and proud. As one approaches Koothi, as this village is known, it becomes certain that this self-sustaining microcosm of fraternity, self-reliance and equality, has stood the test of time to create a system of self-governance, keeping its residents in a state of well-being and independence.

“The soul of India lives in its villages,” observed Mahatma Gandhi. Living this thought, Koothi’s vision for self-governance, while maintaining its democratic and just values, is a unique study into the concept of decentralisation.

About 53 km from district headquarters Madikeri, one is welcomed into Koothi by a vast ground that hosts a community hall and the grama samithi (village committee) building. As one proceeds further, neatly laid-out estates and houses form the heart of this settlement. The village, primarily composed of Vokkaligas and members of Scheduled Castes, symbolises cohesion and belonging. What one finds even more extraordinary is that Koothi abides by its own set of administrative rules and regulations, untouched by modern policies and laws. 

“Since ancient times, the grama samithi has been in existence to ensure development and well-being of the village. Any problem or dispute is resolved within the village and our unity is our strength,” explains Mohan MD, president of the Koothi Village Committee.

While Koothi does fall under Tolurushettalli Gram Panchayat, it nevertheless has its own village committee. The village has three sub-villages – Hosmane, Dinekere and Kerekoppa. Once every two years, four villagers are nominated from the sub-villages, who form the committee.

Further, the president and vice-president are elected by the nominated members and this non-political team ensures overall development, welfare and safety of the village. The committee meets at least once every month. “There are over 160 houses and over 600 residents in the village. At least one member from each household must attend the meeting. Anyone who fails to be present is fined,” Mohan adds.

(From left) Lakshmikantha, KT Joyappa and Mohan MD, in
Koothi village | Express

Further, the committee holds the important responsibility of maintaining cordial relations between all the villagers, and any dispute is first heard by it. “There are less than a handful of instances when villagers have approached the court or police. Most of the disputes, including property or family rifts, are resolved within the village,” mentions KT Joyappa, former president and a consultant of the committee.

Dispute redressal is very systematic. An application is first forwarded to the committee, which is addressed during the meeting. After the hearings from the parties involved, the dispute is resolved amicably.

“In case of a property rift, committee members visit the spot for an inspection. The committee possesses detailed land survey documents of the entire village. Further, witnesses are heard in favour of both parties. Following this, the issue is heard during the meeting and a judgment passed after consulting and taking into account the facts fulfilled by a majority of the villagers. It is not just the committee members’ decision, but a collective judgment of the village,” states Mohan.

Rarely, there have been instances when a few villagers have moved court against the committee’s decision. “But in all these cases, they have returned to abide by the decision of the committee. While court hearings take years, a dispute addressed by the village committee finds closure in about two meetings,” shares Lakshmikantha, secretary of Someshwara Yuvaka Sangha.

Meanwhile, all proceedings are recorded in a ledger, safely preserved in a secure locker at the committee office. “No matter what, the proceedings recorded in the ledger are not shared with anyone – not even the police,” says Mohan.

The village committee has a separate bank account to collect fines. “The massive committee office and the community hall were built using funds collected by the committee. For the hall which was built over two years ago, each household contributed Rs 17,000. We aim to become self-reliant in all ways and the unity amongst us helps achieve the same,” shares Mohan.

Thanks to its novel, yet time-honoured approach to self-governance, the Koothi Grama Samithi has won accolades from the government too. While villagers from the interior have to frequent the taluk offices for paperworks, officials visit the village as and when summoned by the committee. 

Koothi’s social milieu
There is an interesting regulation that forbids marriage between residents of the same village. “All of us in the village are like siblings. We have grown up together as blood relatives and hence, from the times of our ancestors, marriage between men and women from the same village is forbidden. Anyone violating this norm is fined,” confirms Lakshmikantha.

Any death in the village is mourned by one and all. The victim’s family is spared the duties and expenses, as every household donates a log of wood to set the pyre and all arrangements at the village graveyard are made by villagers.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR / Express News Service / October 17th, 2022