In the present agricultural scenario, improving market access, promoting value addition and exploring export opportunities are essential for enhancing farmers’ income and strengthening agricultural enterprises. To address this need, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kodagu, organized one-day training-cum-awareness programme on “Export Markets for Agricultural Processed Products” today at KVK, Kodagu, in collaboration with the Regional Offices of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Bengaluru.
The programme aimed to sensitize farmers, planters, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and rural entrepreneurs to export opportunities for agricultural and processed products, quality standards, regulatory requirements, documentation and compliance procedures. Emphasis was laid on exploring export markets, promoting value addition and strengthening market linkages to enhance farmers’ income and the economic viability of agricultural enterprises.
The technical session on “Opportunities and Compliances for Export of Agricultural and Processed Products” highlighted potential export avenues, essential procedures and compliance requirements for accessing domestic and international markets. The session also emphasized the importance of quality assurance, appropriate processing and meeting market-specific standards for improving the competitiveness of agricultural products.
The role of ICAR-KVK Kodagu in promoting market-oriented agriculture through technology dissemination, capacity building, technical guidance and extension services was also highlighted. An interactive question-and-answer session enabled participants to clarify their queries and exchange views with the resource persons on export opportunities and market access.
Representatives from NABARD, the Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture, scientists and technical staff of ICAR-KVK Kodagu, farmers, planters, FPO representatives and entrepreneurs also participated in the programme. The initiative provided a platform for knowledge sharing and strengthened awareness of export-oriented agricultural development, value addition and market diversification in Kodagu district.
More than 100 participants attended the program.
(Source: ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kodagu)
source: http://www.icar.org.in / ICAR / Home / by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra,Kodagu / October 15th, 2026
Having received the Kannada Rajyotsava Award this year, fashion and textile curator Prasad Bidapa reflects on his journey in reviving traditional textiles.
“A decorative mirror work covering made for a camel’s hump, sarees for my mother, block printing, mirror work, a lot of lehariya dyeing and bandhini – I picked up small, not very consequential pieces but I still treasure them,” says fashion and textile curator Prasad Bidapa, remembering how his love for traditional textiles began as a 17-year-old studying at the National Institute of Design. For someone who had grown up as an Army kid, the richness of the art he was encountering was instantly captivating. What followed was a career as a fashion stylist and choreographer that repeatedly pulled him into working with handloom textiles and reviving them, which the Karnataka government recently recognised by conferring Bidapa the Rajyotsava Award. “My first reaction was disbelief. It only truly sank in when I saw the government gazette notification,” says Bidapa, adding, “For me, this award is not personal, it represents recognition for Karnataka’s artisans and textile heritage.”
While most may know him for discovering and training top model-actors like Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma, Lara Dutta and more, one of Bidapa’s first major projects was for Mysore Silks in the 1980s, starting his long and continuing relationship with Karnataka’s coveted fabric. “The government sent me to Delhi to put up a fashion show showcasing all the diverse beauty of Mysore silks, and that’s when I realised how much promotion was needed. Later on, I worked on the same project with the former Maharaja and Maharani who were very interested in reviving silk and especially the Gandaberunda motif. Weavers of Mysuru were specially commissioned to make these very beautiful ombre-dyed sarees with the gold motif,” he recalls.
Since then, Bidapa has worked with several states, putting together the Rajasthan Heritage Week for five years, connecting top designers with artisans to breathe new life into traditional designs. Recently, he recreated a similar concept with Ashtalakshmi, an initiative by the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), showcasing the region’s diverse textiles
“Top designers like Tarun Tahiliani, Abraham & Thakore and Rohit Bal chose a particular textile in Rajasthan and worked directly with artisans to create something new. It started a movement which continues till today, a lot of contemporary designs in Kota Doria were invented because artisans started creating new designs themselves. Sarees which used to be sold at ₹8,000 are going for ₹80,000 today – their real worth,” he says.
Right here in Bengaluru, Bidapa curated the Festival of Handmade. Being in the fashion space since the ’80s, Bidapa notes that the awareness and use of handloom has grown drastically but more could be done, and the answer, for him, lies in tourism. “Individuals and organisations like The Crafts Council of Karnataka, people like Pavithra Muddaya and Prasanna Heggodu have done stellar work. But you cannot expect the private sector to shoulder this responsibility entirely. The government must charge the textile and tourism departments to revive and create a tourism attraction with these awesome products. Textiles represent Indian luxury, rarity and centuries-old skills. We need to monetise and promote this heritage,” he says.
With this award, he hopes to push for a project weaving travel and Karnataka’s silk production process together to further draw attention to the craft. He shares, “Something I would very much like to create is a travel experience down Karnataka’s silk route (Ramanagara, Channapatna, Srirangapatna and Mandya), bringing tourists to see how silk is farmed, spun, woven, dyed and embellished. So many people would come from all over the world!”
Weaves of wonder
When it comes to Karnataka’s diverse textiles, Bidapa has three recommendations for pieces that every woman should own: the Ilkal saree, Molakalmuru saree and Dharwad cotton saree. He says, “An Ilkal saree is woven using a three-shutter loom. The body is made of cotton and the pallu of silk; it looks so beautiful. One of the unsung textiles of Karnataka is the Molakalmuru, similar to Kanjivaram but different, having an extremely heavy weave. Finally, the cotton sarees of North Karnataka are soft and lovely for summer.”
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Bengaluru / by Mahima Nagarajan / November 02nd, 2026
Madikeri recorded a 25% drop in waste generated during this year’s Dasara, with municipal officials attributing the reduction partly to the city’s ban on the sale and use of plastic bottles below two litres.
The cleanup operation was completed in one and a half days, compared with five days last year, according to Madikeri city municipal commissioner Ramesh.
source: http://www.urbanacres.com / Urban Acres / Home / by Maria Dsouza / October 29th, 2026
The opening marks the Group’s entry into Coorg, with the Radisson Individuals Premier property targeting leisure travellers, wellness seekers, weddings and MICE demand.
Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group
Radisson Hotel Group has expanded its presence in India’s leisure hospitality market with the opening of Purple Palms Resort & Spa Coorg, a member of Radisson Individuals Premier. The 78-room property marks the Group’s entry into Coorg, a destination known for its coffee plantations, natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
Located on Madikeri-Mysore Road, the resort is positioned to cater to demand for nature-led getaways, coffee tourism, weddings, social celebrations and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).
“As travellers increasingly seek meaningful and experiential getaways, destinations such as Coorg are seeing strong and sustained demand, particularly from key urban markets including Bengaluru, Mysore and Mangalore. The opening of Purple Palms Resort & Spa Coorg, a member of Radisson Individuals Premier, marks our entry into this important leisure market and reflects our strategy of expanding our presence across high-potential destinations beyond the traditional gateway cities. With its well-connected location, resort facilities and focus on leisure, wellness, celebrations and events, the property will add a new dimension to our offering in Karnataka while bringing Radisson Hotel Group’s global hospitality expertise to Coorg,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.
Location connects the resort to key attractions
Situated off Madikeri-Mysore Road, the property has road connectivity to feeder markets such as Mysore, Bengaluru and Mangalore. Kannur International Airport is approximately 100 km away, Mysore Airport is 101 km away, and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is around 261 km from the resort. Mysore Junction is approximately 88 km away.
Guests can also access popular attractions across Coorg, including Madikeri Fort, Abbey Falls, Chiklihole Reservoir, Kotebetta Peak and Nagarhole National Park.
Accommodation draws on Coorg’s natural setting
The resort offers 78 rooms across three categories: Panorama Rooms, Courtyard Rooms and Peaberry Suites. Contemporary interiors and views of the surrounding setting are intended to provide a comfortable base for guests exploring the region’s landscapes and coffee culture.
Courtyard Rooms and Peaberry Suites feature private balconies. The Peaberry Suites also include a separate living room and dining area, while garden-facing sit-outs with coffee tables offer additional spaces to unwind.
Dining and wellness facilities
Purple Palms Resort & Spa Coorg has two dining outlets. Elephants & Coffee is a multi-cuisine restaurant serving local and fusion dishes, with open-air and barbecue dining options. Banduk Bar draws on Coorg’s hunting heritage and serves premium spirits, signature cocktails and mocktails.
The resort also features a spa and gymnasium, extending its offering to guests seeking wellness and recreation alongside their stay.
A venue for weddings and corporate events
The property caters to corporate conferences, wedding receptions and social celebrations. Its 139-square-metre Cherry Hall can accommodate up to 200 guests and is supported by an adjoining lawn and a dedicated pre-conference area. Catering options include traditional Coorg cuisine, allowing the venue to host both business gatherings and personal occasions.
Partners aim to reflect Coorg’s hospitality and coffee heritage
“Coorg has always held a special place in our business and in our vision for hospitality, given our deep connection with the region and its coffee heritage. With Purple Palms Resort & Spa, we wanted to create a resort that allows guests to experience the natural beauty and character of Coorg while enjoying warm, contemporary hospitality. Our partnership with Radisson Hotel Group is an important milestone in this journey, giving the property access to an internationally recognised hospitality ecosystem while allowing us to retain the distinctive character of the destination. We look forward to welcoming travelers, families, wedding celebrations and corporate groups to Purple Palms and creating memorable experiences that reflect the spirit of Coorg,” said Narayan Viswanathan and Visalakshi Viswanathan, Partners, SLN Hotels and Resorts.
“We are delighted to welcome guests to Purple Palms Resort & Spa Coorg and introduce a new hospitality experience in one of Karnataka’s most sought-after leisure destinations. Our aim is to create a stay that goes beyond accommodation, bringing together the warmth of personalised service with the many experiences that make Coorg special – from its coffee plantations and lush landscapes to its rich local culture and heritage. With comfortable accommodation, dining experiences, wellness facilities and dedicated spaces for meetings and celebrations, the resort is designed to cater to a diverse range of travelers. We look forward to creating memorable stays and becoming a preferred choice for leisure travelers, families, weddings and corporate gatherings visiting Coorg,” said Abraham Philip, Vice President Operations, Purple Palms Resort & Spa Coorg, a member of Radisson Individuals Premier.
source: http://www.hotelierindia.com / Hotelier India / Home> Development / October 29th, 2026
Kalanithi Maran built one of India’s biggest media empires. Yet the woman standing beside him has shaped much of its success from the start. Kavery Kalanithi (also known as Kaveri Maran) is far more than the wife of the Sun Group chairman. She is Executive Director of Sun TV Network, the force behind its content strategy, and one of the highest-paid executives in Indian corporate history.
Here’s a clear, up-to-date look at her life, work, and family.
Kavery hails from Kodagu (Coorg) in Karnataka. She married Kalanithi Maran in 1991. At the time, Kalanithi was still shaping his vision after returning from an MBA at the University of Scranton in the United States. He had seen the explosion of television channels there and wanted to bring something similar to South India.
Kavery joined the journey almost immediately. When Sun TV launched in 1993, she stepped into a hands-on role. What began as a single Tamil channel grew under the couple’s combined leadership into a network of more than 30 channels across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, and Marathi. In 2024 the group even entered the Hindi market with Sun Neo.
Their partnership has always been professional as well as personal. Both ranked among India’s highest-paid executives, each drawing packages in the tens of crores in earlier years. Kavery’s remuneration has consistently been reported around ₹87 crore in recent financial years.
Her Role in Building the Sun Empire
Kavery oversees content across the network. She watches competing channels closely and believes feedback is essential—something her husband instilled early. Under her watch the group expanded beyond South India and strengthened its overseas presence among the Tamil diaspora.
Key contributions include:
Driving content that keeps Sun TV dominant in Tamil Nadu (often around 40% viewership share).
Expanding into Marathi and Bengali markets.
Supporting the group’s move into digital streaming through Sun NXT.
Helping maintain the network’s strong film production arm, Sun Pictures.
She rarely seeks the spotlight. Colleagues and industry watchers describe her as focused, detail-oriented, and quietly decisive. While Kalanithi handles the broader business vision, Kavery has long owned the creative and content side.
Family Life and the Next Generation
The couple has one daughter, Kavya (also spelled Kaviya) Kalanithi Maran, born in the early 1990s. Kavya is Executive Director at Sun TV Network and heads the group’s cricket interests—Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, Sunrisers Eastern Cape in South Africa’s SA20, and Sunrisers Leeds in England’s The Hundred.
As of October 2026, Kavya is preparing to marry music composer Anirudh Ravichander. The wedding reception is scheduled for 21 November 2026 in Chennai. Kalanithi and Kavery have already begun inviting political leaders, including meetings with Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.
The family maintains a relatively private profile despite their public business roles and political connections (Kalanithi is the grand-nephew of the late M. Karunanidhi and son of former Union Minister Murasoli Maran).
Quick Facts Table
Detail
Information
Full Name
Kavery Kalanithi Maran (Kaveri Maran)
Hometown
Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka
Marriage
1991 to Kalanithi Maran
Profession
Executive Director, Sun TV Network
Key Responsibility
Content strategy across 30+ channels
Daughter
Kavya Kalanithi Maran (SRH CEO)
Notable Salary (reports)
Around ₹87 crore in recent years
Current Focus (2026)
Content, digital growth, family milestones
Why Kavery Matters in Indian Media
Kavery represents a quieter style of leadership. She entered the business at its foundation and stayed through every expansion, from a single channel to a multi-language powerhouse that reaches over 140 million households. Her consistent presence has given Sun TV stability and a strong content identity.
In an industry often dominated by louder personalities, her approach—watch the product closely, expand carefully, and let results speak—has proven effective for more than three decades.
Conclusion
Kavery Kalanithi is not just Kalanithi Maran’s wife. She is a co-architect of one of India’s most successful regional media groups. From the early days of Sun TV in 1993 to the network’s current scale and the family’s next chapter with their daughter’s wedding in November 2026, she has remained a steady, influential presence. Her story shows how behind-the-scenes leadership can shape an entire industry.
source: http://www.gmdcalibration.in / GMD Calibration / Home / by gopalkumarjha111991@gmail.com / October 18th, 2026
Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna inaugurates the `4.84 crore power project at Cheeni Hudlu Haadi in Kodagu district. (Photo | EPS)
Located on the forest fringes of Thithimathi, these four tribal settlements are home to over 185 families across three tribal communities: Jenu Kurubas, Paniyera Yeravas, and Panjari Yeravas.
Madikeri :
For as long as anyone can remember, sunset marked the end of the day for the tribal settlements near Thithimathi in Ponnampet taluk of Kodagu district. For generations, darkness was not just the absence of light in the village; it was a way of life. This narrative, however, changed forever this week after a 4.84 crore power project was inaugurated, finally lighting up the tribal settlements of Jungle Haadi, Ayur Suruli Haadi, Cheeni Hudlu Haadi and Chombu Kaadu Haadi.
“We never thought we would live to see our homes shine like this. All of us were jubilant when our houses lit up with the flick of a switch,” said Paniyeravara C Ramu, a resident of Cheeni Hudlu Haadi. He said that although the project was completed four months ago, the inauguration was delayed. “While we were always in the dark, we could not keep calm after the completion of the project. We persuaded our MLA to inaugurate the unit, and you should have seen the happiness on all our faces when our houses received electricity,” he added.
Located on the forest fringes of Thithimathi, these four tribal settlements are home to over 185 families across three tribal communities: Jenu Kurubas, Paniyera Yeravas, and Panjari Yeravas.
Having lived here for generations, residents say they are only now witnessing real development. “Earlier, we used to light diyas with kerosene received through our ration cards. But kerosene supplies stopped after the forest department started providing LPG, leaving us struggling to light lamps in our houses,” explained Ramu.
He noted that while the settlements later received solar lights, they failed because they were not durable. The children in the settlements struggled to study, but the arrival of electricity has now resolved these major hardships.
Yeravas, however, in the settlement still wait for permanent shelters, as many continue to live in tarpaulin huts now equipped with electricity meter boards. According to Ramu, Jenu Kurubas, classified as an indigenous Adivasi community, receive government facilities on a priority basis from the ITDP department. In contrast, Paniyera Yeravas and Panjari Yeravas, who were previously under the ITDP department, were shifted to the Valmiki Corporation and are now under the Alemari Corporation.
“While Jenu Kurubas receive facilities on priority, the Yerava community in the settlement is still waiting for permanent houses. Over 25 houses sanctioned to Yeravas in 2012 remain incomplete. Running from one department to another, we feel like true ‘Alemaris’ (nomads) even to this day,” he concluded.
Nevertheless, Ramu said the settlement has seen considerable progress, including good roads thanks to the current MLA’s efforts, and he hopes permanent shelter, like electricity, is no longer out of reach.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Prajna G R / October 13th, 2026
The contemporary menswear label explores the idea of “evolving luxury” through craftsmanship, material innovation and a curated fashion experience.
Bangalore:
House of Aldeno, the contemporary menswear label by CIEL Textile, unveiled its latest collection through an immersive showcase in Bengaluru, bringing together fashion, art, music and storytelling to present its evolving vision of modern luxury.
Rather than approaching the collection as a conventional runway presentation, House of Aldeno created a six-part experience that moved through distinct moods, materials and expressions of menswear. Each sequence was introduced through an abstract visual representation that established its mood before the models entered the runway, creating a continuous narrative across the presentation.
At the heart of the showcase was House of Aldeno’s philosophy of “evolving luxury”, a perspective that moves beyond traditional definitions of luxury to focus on craftsmanship, product excellence, individuality and an ability to respond to the changing aspirations of the contemporary consumer.
The evening opened with an artistic installation, with a six-by-four-foot abstract artwork being created live as guests arrived, accompanied by a live violin performance. The artwork gradually came together through the course of the evening, setting the tone for the collection and its presentation.
The showcase brought together senior leadership from CIEL Group and CIEL Textile, including Mr. Guillaume Dalais, CEO of CIEL Group, and Mr. Eric Dorchies, CEO of CIEL Textile. Their presence underscored the larger vision behind House of Aldeno and its evolution from CIEL Textile’s extensive manufacturing expertise into a brand-led expression of product, craftsmanship and contemporary luxury
The showcase was curated by Mr. Prasad Bidappa alongside Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO of the Woven Cluster at CIEL Textile, bringing together the various elements of the evening into a cohesive experience.
The collection itself unfolded across six distinct sequences, beginning with an exploration of tonal whites and layering, followed by Eversharp, denim, linen and relaxed layering, before culminating in a more polished After Dark edit. Together, the sequences reflected House of Aldeno’s approach to contemporary menswear, understated, considered and rooted in the relationship between fabric, function and form.
Among the collection’s key material stories was linen, which represents approximately 40% of the collection. Another highlight was Quatroflex, a fabric engineered for flexibility and all-weather wear, reflecting the brand’s emphasis on combining technical innovation with refined design.
The presentation also highlighted Eversharp, House of Aldeno’s crisp cotton shirting proposition, developed through a specialised treatment that gives the fabric its distinctive finish while reducing the need for frequent ironing.
Speaking at the showcase, Mr. Rajesh Kumar said ”Aldeno is no longer just an idea. We have now been serving consumers for almost five years. And that journey has given us something extremely important, confidence. What you see is not simply a collection. It is a young brand beginning to tell the world who it wants to be.”
With its latest collection, House of Aldeno continues to build its interpretation of evolving luxury, one that places the product and its craftsmanship at the centre while remaining open to the changing cultural and creative landscape around it.
About House of Aldeno
House of Aldeno is a contemporary menswear brand that brings together refined tailoring, modern versatility and timeless design for the evolving Indian man. Created for individuals who move seamlessly across work, social occasions, travel and cultural experiences, the House focuses on elevated wardrobe essentials that balance sophistication, comfort and self-expression. With an emphasis on quality, fit and considered design, House of Aldeno seeks to make premium menswear relevant and accessible to a new generation, while contributing to a broader conversation around contemporary masculinity, personal style and the changing culture of dressing in India.
source: http://www.passionateinmarketing.com / Passionate in Marketing / Home>Brands in Conversation / Passionate in Marketing / October 13th, 2026
Karnataka plans a new heliport in Kodagu to improve air connectivity and boost tourism. The greenfield facility in Chikkathur village will accommodate heavy helicopters, while new aviation projects are also planned in Hampi and Chikkamagaluru.
The Karnataka government is planning to strengthen air connectivity to some of the state’s major tourist destinations by developing new aviation infrastructure in Kodagu, Hampi and Chikkamagaluru. As part of the plan, the state is preparing to develop a greenfield heliport in Kodagu, which is expected to provide tourists with a faster travel option to the popular hill district. The projects are aimed at improving regional connectivity and supporting tourism and local economic activity.
Greenfield Heliport Planned In Kodagu
The government plans to develop the new heliport on 7.2 acres of land in Chikkathur village of Kushalnagar taluk in Kodagu district. The Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC) will oversee the project.
The proposed heliport is expected to make travel to Kodagu more convenient, particularly for tourists who currently have to undertake long road journeys. Kodagu does not currently have an airport, while Mangaluru International Airport is around 137 km from Madikeri. Mysuru and Kannur airports are among the other nearby air travel options.
Madikeri Heliport DPR To Be Updated
Engineers are designing the proposed Madikeri heliport to accommodate MI-172 or similar heavy helicopters. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Kodagu heliport has already been prepared.
The government has now asked consultants to review and update the DPR based on the latest Schedule of Rates. Authorities will also assess passenger demand before finalising the infrastructure requirements for the project.
The assessment will consider existing tourist footfall, passenger traffic, local business activity and future demand for helicopter services.
Heliports Planned In Hampi And Chikkamagaluru
The state government is also planning new aviation facilities in two other major tourist destinations.
Officials plan to develop a greenfield heliport on more than 10 acres of land near Kamalapur in Hampi, Vijayanagara district. Chikkamagaluru is set to get a larger facility, with the government planning an airstrip-cum-heliport on 137 acres of land.
The Chikkamagaluru project will include an airstrip, helicopter parking facilities and a dedicated passenger terminal. The terminal is planned to handle 20 arriving and 20 departing passengers at the same time.
Aviation Projects To Boost Tourism
Kodagu, Hampi and Chikkamagaluru attract thousands of visitors and are among Karnataka’s major tourist destinations. The government aims to strengthen tourism and regional connectivity by improving air access to these locations.
However, the projects will require aviation, environmenoting regional air connectivity through its Modified UDAN scheme. Under the scheme, the Centre plans to develop 100 airports and 200 modern helipads across the country.
Once implemented, the proposed aviation projects could provide a significant boost to tourism, local businesses and regional connectivity in Kodagu and other major tourist destinations across Karnataka.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com/ Asianet News, English / Home> Karnataka / by Asianet Newsable English/ October 06th, 2026
“Instead of migrating elsewhere for jobs, people of the Coastal and Malnad regions should start businesses in your own hometowns utilizing local natural resources. To empower you, the Congress government has formulated a special Tourism Policy for the Coastal and Malnad regions,” called upon CM D. K. Shivakumar.
Shivakumar was speaking at the Kail Muhurat Jambara 2026 event held on Sunday at the Kodagu Gowda Samaja Hall in Ullal, Bengaluru.
“All of you have come from Kodagu and are residing in Bengaluru. If you forget your roots, you will not achieve success. Just as roots are essential for a tree, faith is essential for a human being. It gives me immense joy to see you all come together, building such a magnificent structure by bringing together your culture, hometown, heritage, and community. My congratulations to everyone who worked hard and encouraged this effort,” he said.
Kodagu has a rich history of valor, culture, and spirituality
“Kodagu has a history in the fields of valor, culture, and spirituality. We can never forget its history of raising heroes in every household. Mother Cauvery, who originates here, feeds us all the way to Puducherry. This time, there has been a severe drought. Even the Malnad region has lacked rainfall this year. I am anxiously waiting for the lakes and the KRS dam to fill up,” he stated.
“I have decided to conduct the Cauvery Aarti every year, and instructions have been issued to celebrate it during the Dasara festival this year as well. Kodagu district is the Kashmir of Karnataka. The entire world is attracted to this region. Preserve your heritage; it is a great human quality. In my own experience, people migrate from villages to cities for education and livelihood. If education and employment were available in the villages, you would not have come here. You are organizing yourselves and trying to do good for the village people, and you have presented several demands to me,” he said.
Build businesses in your own hometowns
“We recently held a special cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, where a separate tourism policy was formulated for the Malnad and Coastal regions. The talent of the people from this region must be recognized. People from this district have left their mark in sports and the defense sector. Educational institutions and banks were established in the Coastal region, but they have now declined. Protecting them is our duty. It has been decided to utilize the 327 km-long coastline for tourism, similar to Goa and Kerala,” he noted.
“Looking at Mangaluru, Udupi, and Karwar, there isn’t even a single five-star hotel. I do not wish to talk politics about why this happened. It is our desire to leave behind a meaningful contribution during our tenure. We are not permanent in politics. God gives neither blessings nor curses; He only gives opportunities. What we do with the opportunities we get is what matters,” he expressed.
“The Tirupati Temple Trust approached us asking for land to build a good temple. For that purpose, the Cabinet has decided to allot 10 acres of land in Mangaluru to the TTD Board. There are already temples like Kukke Subramanya, Kollur Mookambika, Kateel, and Dharmasthala in that region. This decision was taken to help those who cannot travel to Tirupati visit the Venkataramana temple here instead,” he said.
“Our decision regarding the Tulu language has been discussed worldwide; it is a symbol of self-respect. We have framed a special tourism policy combining the Coastal and Malnad regions. Rather than going outside for employment, this should enable the people of this region to build businesses right at their doorstep. We arrived at this decision so that you become entrepreneurs rather than remaining employees. No one can erase your coffee, spices, and culture. To protect them, an infrastructure policy has been integrated into this tourism policy. If you start a tourism-related business in this region, the repayment tenure for loans offered by banks can be extended from 5–6 years to up to 20 years. Financial strength must be provided to those starting businesses,” he explained.
Meeting with entrepreneurs in Mangaluru shortly
“I will visit Mangaluru again and sit down to hold discussions with all entrepreneurs. I invite you as well; please participate. Instead of outsiders coming and starting businesses here, set up businesses yourselves and build assets. I am making efforts to give strength to this initiative,” he informed.
Ponnanna and Manthar are like the two eyes of Kodagu; protect them
“You have shown special affection toward me, and I believe in principles over caste to take everyone along together. Victory to human values; peace to the world through righteousness. We must follow the message given by our National Poet Kuvempu in the state anthem to live with humanity without hurting anyone’s feelings. We are building our lives for the unity, integrity, and peace of the nation. Let us work together for this.
Representatives from Mysuru have submitted a memorandum regarding land, and I have instructed Ponnanna and Manthar Gowda to present this matter before the Cabinet. I will extend whatever help is possible from my end and look into the remaining demands to provide assistance,” he assured.
“When I was in difficult times, all of you stood by me in support, praying and fighting for me. As I always say, efforts may fail, but prayers never fail. You all expressed the desire for this D. K. Shivakumar to be around for a longer time to serve the state. I will govern without compromising your feelings, thoughts, and respect. This D. K. Shivakumar is a son of your household. Protect me as you would protect your own children. There are two MLAs here—Manthar and Ponnanna—who are like the two eyes of Kodagu district. Give them strength too. They are active, young, and working with honesty. Some people feel envious of their growth. There is no cure for envy. Those who are strong and perform well will always have critics and enemies,” he said.
Protect your voting rights
“If we are stronger, we will have more enemies; if we are less strong, fewer enemies; if we aren’t strong at all, there will be no enemies. Envy exists toward those who work actively. Therefore, you must protect these two MLAs. Protecting them is equivalent to protecting me and giving me strength. Protect your votes. You are seeing it yourselves—we are fighting day and night to safeguard your right to vote. Now, the Election Commission has directed that no names should be removed from the voter list unnecessarily.
“Let them revise the names of those having more than one vote or those who have passed away. But the rights of genuine, eligible voters must be protected. The right to vote is the right to life; it is the power granted by the Constitution,” he said.
Celebrating Dasara differently this time
“You have celebrated Ayudha Puja with great joy, and we will accord the respect due to the history and Gowda heritage of Kodagu. You are preserving both agricultural and cultural traditions. Our culture is the asset of our nation. We are trying to celebrate Dasara differently this time—troops from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy should participate in the Dasara procession to honor the soldiers who have served the nation. Artists from various regions, the film industry, and all communities should be included, and we are moving forward to conduct the event with discipline,” he stated.
I am with you, stand with us “Ambassadors from several nations and Chief Ministers of other states have been invited to this tradition that has been carried forward since the era of the Maharajas. Opportunities have also been provided for your traditions and culture in the procession. This D. K. Shivakumar will be with you on all occasions. Utilize me as much as you can. May good things happen to you. I am with you; stay with us,” he assured.
source: http://www.megamedianews.com / MegaMedia News / Home> Regional News / by Editor / October 05th, 2026
India’s luxury travel market is finding new appeal in places where the landscape, local culture and pace of life matter more than spectacle. In Karnataka’s Western Ghats, The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary brings that shift into focus, placing forest experiences, plantation heritage and wellness at the centre of a high-end stay. The property was unveiled under its new identity in July 2026 after The Leela acquired the retreat earlier in the year. Set across 76 acres of forest and coffee plantations near Madikeri, it introduces a nature-led expression of Indian luxury that differs from the palace hotels and urban landmarks associated with the brand. The development also sits within a wider tourism shift in Karnataka. Helicopter tourism is being promoted as a way to connect Bengaluru with destinations such as Coorg and Kabini, offering an alternative to long road journeys. However, scheduled direct helicopter shuttles from Kempegowda International Airport to private plantation estates have not been independently confirmed.
The Leela Coorg Makes the Forest the Main Attraction
The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary features 71 villas, including family accommodation, duplex options and private pool villas. A four-bedroom presidential villa sits at the top of the property’s accommodation offering.
The resort’s setting is central to its identity. Coffee plantations, forest trails, a seven-acre lake and the surrounding Western Ghats provide the backdrop for a stay designed around nature rather than urban entertainment.
Its architecture draws on local craftsmanship and the character of Kodava land. The property also holds an Indian Green Building Council Platinum certification, reflecting its environmental design credentials.
For the luxury market, this is a notable shift in emphasis. The experience is less about grand interiors and more about privacy, landscape and the opportunity to spend time in a distinctive part of southern India.
Wellness Takes Guests Beyond the Traditional Spa
The sanctuary’s 27,000-square-foot wellness centre is a major part of its offering. Under Aujasya by The Leela, the programme draws on Indian wellness traditions, personalised therapies, yoga, mindfulness and nature-inspired rituals.
Forest walks and outdoor treatment spaces connect the wellness experience with the surrounding environment. The intention is to make restoration part of the stay rather than an isolated appointment at a spa.
The property’s wellness positioning also reflects a broader change in luxury travel. Guests are increasingly looking for holidays that support rest, movement and healthier routines, alongside the comfort expected from premium hospitality.
Coorg’s setting strengthens that proposition. Misty mornings, plantation trails and a quieter pace offer a natural contrast with the demands of city life.
Kodava Heritage Gives the Stay a Local Identity
Coorg’s cultural character is an important part of its appeal. The Kodava community has a distinct heritage, with traditions linked to the region’s landscape, food and agricultural history.
The resort’s dining programme includes Luma for all-day dining, Zen for Pan-Asian cuisine, The Cellar Lounge Bar and 92 Degrees, a coffee retreat rooted in the local plantation story.
Its Estate to Brew experience takes guests through coffee heritage with plantation walks, curated tastings and storytelling. This connects the resort to one of Coorg’s defining industries while giving visitors a more direct way to understand the destination.
Rather than presenting regional culture as decoration, the experience places coffee and local identity within the guest itinerary.
Bengaluru’s Helicopter Tourism Links Reach Coorg and Kabini
The journey to a remote luxury retreat can be as important as the stay itself. Coorg is several hours by road from Bengaluru, and traffic can make the transfer longer during busy travel periods.
Karnataka Tourism identifies Bengaluru as a helicopter tourism gateway, with BLADE India operating flights to Coorg, Kabini, Hampi and Mysuru from Jakkur Aerodrome. The state tourism authority also describes customised private charter options for travellers seeking more flexible schedules.
These services create a faster alternative to road travel, although flight availability, departure points and landing permissions depend on the operator and destination.
The Leela Coorg itself has a private helipad, providing an additional arrival option for eligible guests. This is a more firmly established feature than the claim of direct scheduled shuttles from Kempegowda International Airport’s private terminal to plantation estates.
For Kabini, helicopter tourism offers another route into Karnataka’s wildlife and river landscapes, where resort stays and safari experiences form a major part of the visitor proposition.
A Different Luxury Map for South India
The investment made by The Leela into Coorg will add another nature-themed destination to India’s premium hospitality sector. With its forest location, coffee history, wellness services and secluded atmosphere, this will give an advantage to the area in terms of entering the luxury segment of the market. For guests, the attraction comes from the difference offered: comfortable accommodation without the hustle and bustle of a city hotel, with experiences strongly associated with the environment around it. With the development of the helicopter tourism segment in Karnataka, the possibilities for combining trips to Coorg and Kabini with tours from Bengaluru could grow.
source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Travel and Tour World – TTW / Home> Latest Travel News of India / by TTW Newsdesk / October 04th, 2026
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