Monthly Archives: May 2026

Coorg content creator Rida Tharana’s ethereal white gown at Cannes 2026 red carpet spotlights Indian craftsmanship

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Rida Tharana makes Coorg proud, picks Nikhil Gajare gown spotlighting Indian craftsmanship for her Cannes red carpet debut. See all the photos.

Coorg-born fashion and lifestyle content creator Rida Tharana officially made her red carpet debut at the 79th Cannes Film Festival on May 13. A day later, Rida took to Instagram to unveil a series of photos that showcase her look that seamlessly bridges the gap between avant-garde global fashion and the meticulous handiwork of Indian artisans.

Rida’s sculptural ivory gown at Cannes 2026

For her walk across the iconic Cannes Film Fetival red carpet, Rida Tharana chose a custom creation by Indian designer Nikhil Gajare. The gown is a striking example of contemporary couture, featuring a structured, strapless corset bodice and intricate curved paneling that flows across the torso, creating a 3D effect that mimics the organic lines of a seashell.

The rigid structure of the bodice gives way to a voluminous, multi-layered chiffon skirt, allowing for a dramatic twirl that captured attention. A unique, copper-toned pleated sash wraps around the hips, providing a metallic pop against the pristine ivory fabric and highlighting the fusion of different textile techniques. To complete the regal ensemble, Rida wore diamond jewellery by Sennes, with her hair styled in a high, textured, voluminous updo.

Rida’s candid post

Beyond the glamour of the red carpet, Rida shared a deeply personal message regarding her journey to Cannes. In her Instagram post, she admitted that her initial reaction to the invitation was to decline. “When I first found out I had the opportunity to walk the Cannes red carpet, I said no. I didn’t think I deserved it. I questioned myself every second,” she revealed

She credited her management team for pushing her beyond her self-doubt. Rida’s post touched on the rollercoaster of emotions — from the fear of public criticism to the eventual realisation that this was her moment to own. She also revealed that the choice of designer was deliberate. Having worked with Nikhil previously, Rida noted that the piece ‘felt like her’. She likened the experience to a childhood dream, stating that while she never had Barbie dolls growing up, the gown made her feel like a princess.

The debut marks a significant milestone for the creator, and by choosing to wear an emerging Indian couturier on one of the world’s most scrutinised stages, Rida reinforced her reputation as a cultural curator, proving that the journey from Coorg to Cannes is paved with hard work, authenticity, and a bit of self-belief.

“When I say this year is mine, I mean it. This year, and everything that comes after, is mine,” she concluded.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / HindustanTimes / Home / by Sanya Panwar / May 14th, 2026

Joshna finds joy in longevity after nearly three decades on court

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Joshna Chinappa’s immediate target is the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, while the Los Angeles Olympics is not on her radar at the moment.

Joshna Chinappa reached the women’s doubles final alongside Rathika Seelan at the National doubles championships on Friday. | Photo Credit: VELANKANNI RAJ B

Having played  squash since the age of nine, Joshna Chinappa continues to defy time and expectation. Now 39, she remains among India’s finest players, currently ranked World No. 71 and second only to Anahat Singh among Indian women.

Through dedication, discipline and an enduring love for the sport, Joshna continues to set new benchmarks.

So, after nearly three decades on court, what has changed? Joshna has found a different perspective.

“In the last couple of years, I’ve learned to be very detached from the outcomes. I ensure that I do what I need to do to be able to play and train and give it my best. If it doesn’t work out, it’s also okay,” Joshna told Sportstar after reaching the women’s doubles final with Rathika Seelan and the mixed doubles final with Velavan Senthilkumar at the National doubles championships here on Friday.

The results suggest that the shift in mindset has worked in her favour. This season, Joshna captured the Japan Open title, her 11th Professional Squash Association Tour crown and her first in a decade, besides finishing runner-up in two events at home.

The journey, however, has not been easy. Joshna has battled persistent physical setbacks, particularly after undergoing a second surgery on her right knee following the 2023 Asian Games. Yet, she has carried herself with remarkable poise and resilience, continuing to compete against opponents nearly half her age.

“I have not taken a break ever, except for the two knee surgeries. I always say it was the anaesthesia that kept me out. Other than that, I have always been playing back-to-back,” she said with a smile.

“I am also at the stage where it doesn’t excite me to play 12 tournaments a year.”

For now, the immediate target is the forthcoming Asian Games. The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is not on her radar at the moment.

But beyond medals and rankings, Joshna understands the significance of simply being able to compete at this stage of her career.

“Any match or tournament that I’m able to play is a huge gift for me. To still do that, play at that level and compete with the best girls in the world, is very encouraging. For me now, it’s more about enjoying my game,” she said.

source: http://www.sportstar.thehindu.com / Sportstar / Home> Squash / by K Keerthivasan / May 15th, 2026

This Forest Resort in South India Will Open With Private Villas, a Huge Spa, and a 7-acre Lake

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Set amid coffee and spice farms in South India’s Coorg Region, the new resort will be part of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts’ portfolio.

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary. / Credit: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

Key Points:

  • The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary will feature 71 private villas surrounded by lush greenery and coffee estates near Madikeri, in Karnataka’s Coorg region.
  • Guests will enjoy wellness experiences such as yoga, Ayurvedic therapies, and a Turkish hammam at a 27,000-square-foot spa, along with access to a lake and family-friendly amenities.
  • The resort reflects the brand’s shift toward nature-focused retreats, offering privacy and restoration in a serene setting.

A new luxury retreat is coming to one of South India’s atmospheric hill regions. Later this year, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, a 2025 Global Vision Awards winner , will launch The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, a 76-acre, all-villa hideaway set amid coffee estates and misty, forested hills near Madikeri, in Karnataka’s Coorg region.

“The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary offers a rare synthesis of wilderness, wellness, and warmth of true Indian luxury for travelers who seek space, stillness, and a genuine connection to nature,” Anuraag Bhatnagar, the brand’s chief executive officer, shares in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure.

Exterior view of a villa with a private plunge pool. / Credit: Sounak Ghosh / The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

The resort’s accommodations will include split-level family villas and intimate retreats for couples, all tucked into the surrounding greenery. At the top end, a four-bedroom presidential villa will come with a private pool and wellness facilities.

The setting is a big part of the draw. Coorg, in the Western Ghats, is known for its cooler climate, waterfalls, and rolling spice farms. It’s also one of India’s most important coffee-growing districts. That heritage will show up in the resort’s bean-to-cup coffee programming, including a plantation walk and tasting at Modur, one of Coorg’s oldest coffee estates.

Exterior of the restaurant. / Credit : The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

On the dining front, the resort is planned with four venues spanning regional and global cooking, including a striking bee-shaped all-day dining restaurant, an overwater dining space, and a lounge.

Wellness will be just as central to the experience, too. Aujasya by The Leela Spa, the resort’s 27,000-square-foot sanctuary drawing inspiration from the brand’s signature wellness program, will offer yoga by the lake, pranayama breath control, Ayurvedic and global therapies, Swedish and Balinese massage, aromatherapy, a Turkish hammam, panoramic sauna, steam, Jacuzzi, and relaxation areas.

The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary. / Credit: Sounak Ghosh/The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

The seven-acre lake will allow rowing, fishing, and kayaking. Other planned activities include guided nature walks, birding, cycling, stargazing, and forest trails leading to two natural waterfalls. There will also be a family-friendly outdoor play area.

The project marks a new direction for The Leela. Best known for grand city hotels and palace-style stays, the Indian luxury brand is using the Coorg property to introduce its first Sanctuary, a concept focused on nature, privacy, and restoration rather than polished city glamour. The move comes as the company marks its 40th anniversary and expands further into destination-driven leisure travel.

source: http://www.travelandleisure.com / Travel + Leisure / Home / by Regan Stephen / May 14th, 2026

Yonex-Sunrise All India Junior (U-19) Ranking Badminton Tournament 2026 : Diya Bheemaiah of Kodagu clinches doubles title

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To represent India in the Asian Junior Championships

Mysuru:

Diya Bheemaiah, a native of Kodagu and India’s top-seed junior player, secured the Girls’ Doubles title at the Yonex-Sunrise All India Junior (U-19) Ranking Badminton Tournament 2026 held at the Karnataka Badminton Academy in Vasanthnagar, Bengaluru recently.

Partnering with Baruni Paruswal of Haryana, Diya clinched the title by defeating the Tamil Nadu duo of A.S. Anushka Jennifer   and Deeshitha Singha Gopinath Singh in straight-sets 21-10, 22-20.

This victory also earned Diya a direct spot to represent the Indian Junior Team at the upcoming Badminton Asian Junior Championships – 2026 to be held in Yatsushiro, Japan, from June 26 to July 5.

Furthermore, her performance has secured her a place in the selection process to represent the Indian Junior squad in the Mixed Doubles category as well. Diya is the daughter of Boppanda B. Bheemaiah, a badminton coach and K.K. Kusuma, a fitness coach,  residing in Mysuru.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports /May 13th, 2026

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren on a relaxing Kodagu getaway

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Visits Dubare Elephant Camp, Cauvery Nisargadhama

Madikeri:

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren arrived in Kodagu district along with his family for a three-day private visit and is currently staying at a luxury resort near Madikeri.

Soren reached Madikeri on Sunday evening and was received by Assistant Commissioner Mithun Chakravarthy on behalf of the District Administration. Kushalnagar Tahsildar Sridhar has been appointed as the protocol officer for the visit.

The Chief Minister and his family are staying at the Leela Palace resort at Kadagadalu on the outskirts of Madikeri.

During the visit, they toured popular tourist destinations including Dubare Elephant Camp and Cauvery Nisargadhama near Kushalnagar.

Yesterday morning, Soren was welcomed by camp elephant Sri Rama at Dubare Elephant Camp. The Chief Minister, who appeared delighted by the interaction, posed for photographs with the elephant before proceeding to Cauvery Nisargadhama, where he spent time near the river and clicked photographs.

Soren was accompanied by Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Gopal, Range Forest Officer (RFO) Rakshith and Dubare Deputy Range Forest Officer (DRFO) Ranjan. Several staff members and mahouts were also present at the camp.

Sources said that Soren is expected to stay in Kodagu for two more days before returning to Jharkhand.

Tight security arrangements have been made in view of the Chief Minister’s visit. As he is under Z-Plus category security cover, public access has been restricted at certain locations visited by him.

Kodagu Superintendent of Police (SP) R.N. Bindu Mani told Star of Mysore that details of the Chief Minister’s movements could not be disclosed due to security reasons.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / May 12th, 2026

Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy brings libraries to houses and communities

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The academy has begun setting up personalised libraries for individuals and organisations interested in creating reading spaces, with each library consisting of a bookshelf and a curated collection of books based on the preferences of the recipient.

The Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy has begun setting up personalised libraries for individuals and organisations interested in creating reading spaces. | Photo Credit: special arrangement

As reading habits continue to decline in the digital age, the Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy has launched a unique initiative aimed at reviving library culture by bringing books directly into houses, offices, and community spaces across Karnataka.

The academy has begun setting up personalised libraries for individuals and organisations interested in creating reading spaces, with each library consisting of a bookshelf and a curated collection of books based on the preferences of the recipient.

Speaking about the initiative with The Hindu, academy president Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah said that the programme was started with the intention of encouraging people to reconnect with books at a time when libraries and reading habits are slowly fading.

“Today, many youngsters spend more time on mobile phones and social media, while the culture of reading books is gradually disappearing. By setting up libraries in houses, offices, and community spaces, we want to create an environment where books become a part of daily life again. Even a small bookshelf can inspire curiosity, discussions, and the habit of reading among children and adults alike,” Mr. Nachaiah said.

Multilingual library initiative

Under the initiative which started this February 7, the academy collects a charge of ₹10,000, which is utilised for purchasing books and providing a bookshelf to the applicant. Along with books brought out by the Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy, additional books are selected according to the interests and language preferences of the individual or organisation.

Mr. Nachaiah said that the initiative was not limited to Kodava literature alone. “Though this programme is being implemented by the Kodava Sahitya Academy, we do not provide only Kodava books. We provide books in Kannada, English, Kodava, and other languages depending on what people prefer. We also collect books through donations and purchase additional titles so that every library becomes unique and useful to the people using it,” he said.

So far, the academy has established libraries in nine locations, including residences, community spaces like Kodava Samajas, offices, and associations in the district. One such library has also been set up at the residence of Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna. The initiative has also expanded beyond Kodagu, with a library already established in Mysuru Kodava Samaja.

Villages, ancestral homes

Among those who benefited from the initiative is Kukera Jaya Chinappa, a resident of Arekadu village in Madikeri taluk.

“I was impressed by the concept when I heard about it. People in our village regularly gather at the association building in the evenings, and now, because of this initiative, we have a proper library there. The collection includes Kodava, Kannada and English books, and many villagers have started reading during their free time,” he told The Hindu.

Similarly, Palandira Jaga Joyappa, a resident of Balamberi village, said the initiative helped preserve the literary legacy of his ancestral home. “Our grandparents were avid readers and were into the literary field and had a large collection of books. Over the years, many books were lost or scattered because we did not know how to maintain them properly. After learning about this initiative, the academy helped us organise the books and establish a proper library in our ancestral house,” he told The Hindu.

“With increasing interest from individuals and organisations, the Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy hopes to expand the initiative further across the State in the coming months. Already many people are reaching out to us to have their own libraries,” Mr. Nachaiah added.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B.P / May10th, 2026

Kodagu tourist assault case: Homestays, bed-and-breakfast properties to be brought under GPS and police monitoring

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A file photo of Chikkamagaluru police visiting a resort in the district to check if the owner have implemented measures to ensure the safety of tourists. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

As part of the new measures, every staff member working at these properties, including permanent and contract employees, will have to undergo background verification at the local police station.

Following the sexual assault on a U.S. tourist at a Kodagu homestay, the government of Karnataka has made police verification of staff mandatory for all homestays and bed-and-breakfast properties. Travellers, as per a recent circular, will be able to check whether a property is registered with local authorities before checking in.  

Moreover, for police monitoring, all registered properties will be linked to the Karnataka Police Smart E-Beat system, to allow beat constables to make regular visits, verify guest records and log their inspections through GPS-based tracking. District administrations have been told to form joint inspection teams with police and tourism officials to carry out surprise checks and identify unregistered properties operating illegally.

The government of Karnataka is planning to strengthen emergency response by linking registered properties directly to the 112 system to allow distress calls from these locations to be treated as priority tourist emergencies for quicker police response, officials told The Hindu. 

The rules were updated following a recent incident where the victim had alleged that her drinks were laced with intoxicants by a homestay staff member who assaulted her. She had accused the homestay owner of attempting to suppress the incident and failing to help her in approaching the police. 

Background verification

As part of the new measures, every staff member working at these properties, including permanent and contract employees, will have to undergo background verification at the local police station. Property owners must keep these records ready, either physically or digitally, for inspection by police or tourism officials. 

Report by May 15

All Deputy Commissioners, tourism officials, Police and Women and Child Development departments have been directed to co-ordinate and implement the new rules, and submit a compliance report to the Tourism Department by May 15. 

For properties hosting foreign tourists, owners and managers will be trained to correctly record and report guest details through the police-prescribed system, with random checks to ensure compliance. 

Tourists can verify antecedents of accommodation

As per a senior official, the Tourism Department will publish and regularly update an online list of all registered homestays and bed-and-breakfast properties in Karnataka for tourists to check. Travel agents, tour operators and online booking platforms have been told to work only with registered properties, while non-compliant properties could be removed from listings until they meet the rules. These properties will have to display their registration certificates and licences at the entrance or reception so guests can easily check if the property is authorised to operate, according to a recent circular.  

Emergency contact details, including 112, the national tourist helpline (1800111363 or on a short code 1363), women’s helpline and child helpline numbers, along with details of the nearest hospital and local authorities, must be displayed at all properties. Hospitality staff will undergo training on gender sensitisation, the POSH Act, 2013 and the POCSO Act, 2012. Properties will have to display QR codes for the Karnataka State Police SOS mobile app, Tourism Department stated.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Rishita Khanna / May11th, 2026

Miscreants vandalise coffee estate in Kodagu

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Over 2,000 coffee plants, 250 pepper vines cut down at Kalakooru village

Madikeri:

In a shocking incident of large-scale vandalism, unidentified miscreants entered a coffee plantation at Kalakooru village near Birunani in Ponnampet taluk of Kodagu district and destroyed more than 2,000 coffee plants and 250 pepper vines, causing losses estimated to run into several lakhs of rupees.

The plantation belongs to Kuppanamada Gautham, who had carefully developed the four-acre estate over the years with seven-year-old coffee plants and pepper vines. The estate was equipped with modern surveillance measures, including CCTV cameras installed at strategic locations.

The incident took place while Gautam and his family were away in Mysuru to attend a wedding ceremony. Taking advantage of their absence, miscreants trespassed into the plantation and carried out widespread destruction.

In addition to cutting down the crops, the perpetrators disconnected and took away the CCTV cameras in an attempt to erase evidence.

The destruction was extensive, with coffee plants and pepper vines cut at ground level, leaving no scope for regrowth. Gautham now faces the difficult and expensive task of re-establishing the plantation from scratch.

Villagers described the act as deliberate and well-planned. They pointed out that the scale of destruction indicated the involvement of at least eight to ten persons.

The incident triggered outrage among villagers and members of the local farming community, who strongly condemned the destruction of crops and demanded immediate action against those responsible.

Hudikeri Revenue Inspector Santhosh visited the spot and inspected the damaged estate. Srimangala Police Station Inspector A.S. Ravindra, along with his team, also visited the plantation. Police deployed a dog squad to gather clues.

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