Category Archives: Arts, Culture & Entertainment

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

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

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

Dr. Boverianda Nanjamma Chinappa

Obituary

Statistician and author Dr. Boverianda Nanjamma Chinappa, aged 89 years and a resident of Covai@ Tapovan Solace in Sharadadevinagar, Mysuru, passed away at a private hospital here this morning. She leaves behind two daughters. 

Cremation took place this afternoon at Harishchandra Ghat at the foot of Chamundi Hill. Her husband Boverianda M. Chinnappa (89), an Engineer and Consultant in India and Canada, passed away on Mar. 10, 2023

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Obiturary / March 31st, 2024

Mahesh Nachaiah Is New Kodava Sahitya Academy President

Madikeri:

Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah has been appointed as the new President of Kodava Sahitya Academy by the State Government.

Mahesh Nachaiah, a native of Virajpet taluk, is a staunch lover of Kodava language                           and is the editor of Kodava  weekly magazine ‘Poomale’. Apart from being a journalist, he is actively associated with many organisations. The government is yet to appoint members for the Kodava Academy

The State Government has also appointed Sadananda Mavaji, a native of Dakshina Kannada, as the President of Karnataka Arebhashe Samskruti and Sahitya Academy.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 19th, 2024

Coorg Unveils Exquisite Event Management Services, Purple Events Promises Unmatched Excellence

In the vibrant realm of event management, a brilliant new luminary is making waves amidst the picturesque backdrop of Coorg.

Meet Sampath, a dynamic entrepreneur whose debut onto the scene promises to captivate clients with an unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier services. Driven with a deep passion for crafting unforgettable moments, Sampath brings a fresh perspective to every occasion, drawing inspiration from Coorg’s natural splendor.

With an unwavering dedication to excellence, Sampath’s enterprise promises a flawless innovation and precise focus on intricacies. From conceptualization to execution,  his team stands ready to transform any occasion into a stunning masterpiece. Drawing inspiration from Coorg’s rich cultural heritage, Sampath aims to infuse each event with a unique charm that reflects the region’s hospitality and warmth.

Clients can anticipate a seamless and stress-free event planning experience, as Sampath guarantees his innovative approach with a commitment to delivering beyond expectations. As the scene is set for exciting projects, Sampath shines as a brilliant young talent in the event management Industry , ready to redefine the standards of luxury and sophistication. 

What: Event Planner

Where: At Coorg/Kodagu, Karnataka

Service: Event Planning, Event Management

For further details contact – 8431972797

source: http://www.hospibuzz.com / Hospibuzz.com / Home> Buzzing News> Hotels News / March 26th, 2024

‘Bird Watching Brings People Closer To Nature’

Birder from Kodagu Dr. S.V. Narasimhan feted

Mysore/Mysuru:

Bird watching is one of the mediums to create awareness on environment conservation, said Dr. S.V. Narasimhan, a Birder and Author from Virajpet in Kodagu.

He was speaking after receiving felicitation at ‘A Day with Salim Ali’ event jointly organised by Mysore Science Theatre Festival Trust, Kutuhali, NCF (National Curriculum Framework) and SVYM (Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement) at Kiru Rangamandira here on Saturday.

“We Indians have always understood the importance of environment since we are worshippers of nature and see divinity in all living beings. Students should learn about nature and its conservation,” he said. A doctor by profession, Dr. Narasimhan is perhaps known to many for his passion for birds.

Bird-watcher N.R. Harsha said renowned Ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali had conducted a research on birds between November, 1939 – February, 1940 in Mysuru region and that the recent research had shown the presence of 419 species of birds in Mysuru region.

“Mysuru region has 191 local species and witnesses 129 different species of migratory birds in winter season. In addition, 53 variety of local migratory birds are also spotted in our region. Among the various species of birds found in the country, Mysuru contributes about 30.7 percent and Karnataka contributes 76 percent,” he noted.

On the occasion, Kannada and English version of the book  ‘Salim Ali – Wonder in the World of Birds’ (Salim Ali – Pakshi Lokada Beragu’) by Dr. M.C. Manohara/ Shashidhar Dongre were released. Artistes of Arivu Ranga staged a play while talks were delivered on ‘Salim Ali and Me’ by S. Subramanya, ‘Birds of Mysuru Region’ by N.R. Harsha and ‘Bringing Birds to People’ by Abhishek Krishnagopal. 

Mysore Science Theatre Festival Trust Trustee Shashidhar Dongre, CFTRI Scientist (retd.) Kollegal Sharma, Suhail Khadar of NCF and Praveen of SVYM were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / March 25th, 2024

Mathigodu Elephant Camp In Kodagu Now A Tourist Centre

The Mathigodu Elephant Camp, situated a short distance away from the Anechowkur Gate at the entry of Kodagu district from Mysuru, has transformed into a tourist attraction and is set to welcome visitors soon. Among its notable residents are the Dasara Howdah Elephant and the fearless  tusker, Abhimanyu.

Passersby along the Mysuru-Gonikoppal Road often halt their vehicles to have a glimpse these majestic creatures, albeit from a distance, as access to the camp was previously restricted for safety reasons and to maintain its exclusivity.

Capitalising on its popularity, the Forest Department has revamped the Mathigodu Elephant Camp into a tourist hub while prioritising safety measures. This camp falls within the precincts of the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, adding to its allure. The Forest Department has spent Rs. 1 crore towards its development.

In an endeavour to raise awareness about human-wildlife conflicts, concerted efforts are underway to educate tourists visiting the Mathigodu Elephant Camp about wildlife conservation. This initiative seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between human settlements and wildlife habitats, with the hope of mitigating such conflicts in the future.

Despite being recognised as an ideal habitat for the State’s finest elephants by the Forest Department, the Mathigodu Elephant Camp hadn’t been optimised as a tourist destination. Meanwhile, the Dubare Elephant Camp near Kushalnagar experienced a steady influx of visitors.

Picture shows the visitor pathway inside the camp.

Located inside a jungle

As the camp is located inside a jungle, there is no provision to open shops and hotels here to convert it into a full-fledged commercial centre. However, basic amenities have been meticulously arranged to ensure the comfort and convenience of visitors, including designated parking areas, feeding zones for the elephants and recreational facilities.

To ensure the safety of both visitors and elephants, a railway track barrier gate has been erected, effectively preventing proximity interactions. Additionally, the establishment of two designated parking lots offers travellers ample space to unwind. A dedicated walking path has been constructed, facilitating easy access from the parking areas to the elephant viewing zone.

This setup not only caters to the demand for elephant viewing but also serves as an educational platform for visitors. The place offers comprehensive insights into elephant behaviour, the significance of elephant camps, monitoring protocols, profiles of the famed Dasara elephants, methods of elephant capture, the role of Kumki elephants, feeding practices, distinctions between Asian and African elephant species and other pertinent information concerning the rehabilitation of elephants.

An information centre has been inaugurated, serving as a repository of knowledge on elephants and forest conservation. Equipped with valuable resources, it aims to provide visitors with an immersive learning experience, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts.

Development works worth Rs. 1 crore have been taken up including a safe elephant feeding area and an information centre.

Home for 17 elephants

Currently, the Mathigodu Elephant Camp is home to a distinguished herd of 17 elephants. Among them are Abhimanyu, Bhima, Mahendra, Ravi, Somashekhar, Masti, Ashoka, Kyaata, Chamundeshwari, Bhuvaneshwari, Srikanta, Abhi (Zoo elephant), Rama, Ekalavya and two forest elephants.

Under the leadership of Range Forest Officer (RFO) D. Devaraj, the well-being and welfare of these magnificent creatures are diligently overseen by a team of DRFOs, dedicated staff members and experienced mahouts and kavadis.

Picture shows Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna feeding watermelon to a tusker during inauguration of the elephant camp recently.

Equipment for surveillance

Visitors have a unique opportunity to witness first-hand the equipment utilised by the Forest Department for managing human-elephant conflicts and operations. Within a designated room, an array of tools is on display, ranging from tranquilliser darts and guns for administering them, to ropes essential for elephant operations.

Additionally, visitors can inspect sophisticated surveillance devices such as camera traps, thermal drones, torches and wireless communication devices utilised in conflict management operations.

This immersive experience will enable visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate procedures and tools employed by the Forest Department. By witnessing these resources up close, visitors can refine their perceptions regarding human-elephant conflict management, appreciating the complexities involved and the efforts undertaken to mitigate such conflicts.

Golden Howdah carriers

The Information Centre showcases a comprehensive list of distinguished  elephants that have had the honour of carrying the 750-kg Golden Howdah during the Dasara festival. Among these pachyderms, Jayamarthanda stands out, having shouldered the Golden Howdah an impressive 45 times.

Other notable elephants who have carried the Howdah are Vijayabahaddur, Nanjunda, Ramaprasad, Motilal Rao, Airavata, Rajendra, Drona (19 times), Balarama (11 times), Arjuna (8+1 times), Abhimanyu (4 times), each adding their majestic presence to the  grand procession.

Entry fee will be charged

The Mathigodu Elephant Camp has been enhanced to accommodate visitors, with all necessary arrangements for their convenience. Following a formal request to the Government regarding the implementation of an entry fee for tourists visiting the elephant camp, the Government has approved the proposal and granted permission. We have taken the necessary steps to prepare accordingly. —Harshakumar Chikkanaragund,Director (DCF), Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / by M T Yogesh Kumar / March 19th, 2024

Hockey festival celebration of heritage and sport for Kodava community in Karnataka

The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where Kodava players from over 300 families come together to play.

The Kodava Hockey Namme (festival) will be held from March 30 to April 28 in Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

For the Kodava community of the small, hilly district of Kodagu in Karnataka, now scattered across the globe, it’s time to return to their roots for an event that’s deeply ingrained in their cultural fabric — the Kodava Hockey Namme (festival). This annual extravaganza brings together families from far and wide to celebrate their love for hockey and their shared heritage.

Organised in the small town of Napoklu, 21 km away from the district headquarters of Madikeri, this festival is no ordinary affair. Recognised as one of the largest field hockey tournaments globally, it has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records.

This year, the excitement is soaring as the Kundyolanda family takes the reins, transforming it into the ‘Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival’. The year’s event will be held from March 30 to April 28.

Fostering community spirit

The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where players from over 300 local families come together to play. The sporting event has no bar on age or gender. The only rule of forming a team is that all members must be from the same family.

Dinesh Cariappa, convenor of the Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival (KHC), said, “This year, we aim to set a new milestone by hosting the largest field hockey tournament yet. It’s not just about the sport. It’s about fostering community spirit and giving back to our people.”

The organisers have introduced a range of initiatives this year, encompassing career guidance sessions, motivational speeches by experts across different domains, all geared towards empowering the youth. Additionally, free health check-ups, discussions on wealth management, and talks covering diverse topics such as defense, aviation, and agriculture have been arranged for attendees.

Ramesh Muddaiah, president of Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival, said, “We are hopeful that the Karnataka Government will extend its support to the hockey festival, just as it has done for previous editions of the event. Government backing would bolster our efforts to make this carnival a grand success.”

Food festival to cultural extravaganza

With 360 families slated to participate, the enthusiasm is palpable. The carnival promises much more than just hockey matches. A food festival showcasing Kodava delicacies and also other cuisine, matrimonial initiatives, and cultural events celebrating the rich heritage of the community are all part of the extravaganza.

“There are plans for educational sessions on traditional Kodava folk songs, popularly known as Baloo Paat, ensuring the preservation of cultural traditions. Apart from these, two marathons — 5 km and 10 km — are scheduled, selfie points dotted across the venue to capture memorable moments, creating lasting memories for attendees,” Mr. Cariappa said.

The carnival kicks off with much fanfare on March 30 with an inaugural match between the Indian Navy team and the Coorg 11 team. It sets the stage for a month-long celebration of sport, culture, and camaraderie.

Kodava Hockey Festival has come a long way

The late Pandanda Kuttappa started the concept of the Kodava family hockey tournament, which later evolved into a significant sporting event and festival. “Mr. Kuttappa initiated the Kodava Family Hockey Tournament in 1997, organised by the Pandanda family initially, with the belief that harnessing the inherent affection Kodavas have for hockey could foster unity among families and the community,” Mr. Cariappa explained.

From the last one decade, the tournament has emerged as a platform for the community members to discuss trade and business interests, besides scouting for marital alliances, according to Mr. Muddaiah. “In the first tournament, which was organised in 1997, nearly 60 teams took part. The format of the tournament was such that every year, one of the Kodava families had to host the event. Now, over 300 families participate involving 3,000 hockey players,” he added.

Preparation for the 2024 edition is underway at the Napoklu General Thimayya Ground, one of the town’s three mud grounds. Temporary bleachers surround the ground to accommodate approximately 30,000 spectators. Various amenities, including galleries, lighting, speakers, and display boards, have been installed.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshab Devaiah B / March 22nd, 2024

Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024: Rashmika Mandanna Set To Create History As 1st Indian Presenter

crunchyroll anime awards 2024: rashmika mandanna set to create history as 1st indian presenter© Provided by Times Now

The anime universe is about to get a touch of Indian cinema flair as Rashmika Mandanna gears up to make her mark at the prestigious Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024. Scheduled to take place on March 2 in Tokyo, Japan, the event will see Rashmika as a presenter.

In a historic feat, the Animal actress will be the first Indian to represent India at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. Rashmika will join an illustrious lineup of presenters at the event, including American pop sensation Megan Thee Stallion, Dallas Cowboys star DeMarcus Lawrence, and wrestling phenomenon Mercedes Varnado, known as Sasha Banks.

Meanwhile, Rashmika was spotted at the airport as she jetted off to Tokyo to attend the coveted awards ceremony. Dressed in a green-coloured top which she paired with black pants, Rashmika acknowledged the paparazzi as she rushed to catch her flight.

The news of Rashmika’s representation at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards has sent waves of excitement through her fanbase and the anime community alike. Rashmika has often expressed her love for anime, citing Naruto Shippuden as her personal favourite.

The Crunchyroll Anime Awards is an annual extravaganza that celebrates the best of the anime world, from series to films and voice actors. It serves as a platform to honour the creativity and artistry behind this beloved genre, attracting fans and industry professionals from across the globe.

The Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2024 will be held on Saturday, March 2.

On the work front, Rashmika has been shooting for Dhanush’s DNS (D51) in Hyderabad. She also has Pushpa 2 in her kitty.

source: http://www.timesnownews.com / Times Now / Home> Entertainment News> Web Series / by Times Entertainment Desk / February 29th, 2024

Unity and Progress: Kodagu Gowda Samaja Elects New Leadership in Mysuru

Discover the new leadership team elected at the Annual General Body Meeting of Kodagu Gowda Samaja in Mysuru, signaling a promising future for the community.

Unity and Progress: Kodagu Gowda Samaja Elects New Leadership in Mysuru
Unity and Progress: Kodagu Gowda Samaja Elects New Leadership in Mysuru

 In the heart of Mysuru, a significant gathering took place that not only celebrated the rich heritage of the Kodagu Gowda community but also marked the beginning of a new chapter. The Kodagu Gowda Samaja, nestled in Railway Layout, Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, recently convened its Annual General Body Meeting, a beacon of unity and progress for its members. The meeting was more than a mere assembly; it was a testament to the community’s resilience and commitment to collective prosperity.

A New Dawn of Leadership

The highlight of the event was the unanimous election of a new set of office-bearers, poised to steer the Samaja through 2023-24 and 2024-25. Kombarana Basappa emerged as the President, a figure of considerable esteem within the community. Alongside him, Kudupaje Dr. Chandrashekar was elected Vice-President, with Ponnetti Nanda taking on the role of Honorary Secretary. The team was rounded off with Nadumane S. Chengappa as Joint Secretary and Naduvatteera G. Lakshmana as Treasurer. Directors such as Pattada Shivakumar and Hosur G. Raghava, among others, were also elected, each bringing their unique skills and vision to the table.

Community at the Core

The meeting, presided over by the outgoing Samaja President Thotambylu Manohar, was not just about elections. It served as a platform for reflection, celebration, and planning. The leadership transition signifies more than a change of guards; it embodies the community’s aspiration for growth and unity. The elected members, each with their distinct background and expertise, underscore the community’s diverse yet cohesive nature.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As the Kodagu Gowda Samaja embarks on this new journey under its freshly elected leadership, there’s a palpable sense of optimism among its members. The community, with its deep-rooted traditions and forward-looking outlook, stands on the cusp of a transformative era. The leadership’s vision for the future, coupled with the collective will of its members, promises to usher in a period of unparalleled growth and unity.

In essence, the recent Annual General Body Meeting of the Kodagu Gowda Samaja in Mysuru was more than a procedural event; it was a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of unity, and a step towards a promising future. With a new leadership team at the helm, the community looks set to navigate the challenges of the modern world while staying true to its rich cultural legacy.

source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com / BNN / Home> India> Local News / by Rafia Tasleem / February 26th, 2024