MLA for Madikeri Mantar Gowda has sanctioned a grant of ₹3 lakh from the MLA Local Area Development Fund for the development of the statue of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, and its surrounding park in Madikeri.
During their visit to Madikeri on Tuesday, Tennira Maina, district president of the Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Raj Organisation, and Mandira Sada Muddappa, nominated member of the Madikeri City Municipal Council, submitted an estimate for the proposed development works. Responding to their proposal, Dr. Gowda announced the grant.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Gowda said that Field Marshal Cariappa and General K.S. Thimayya were exceptional military leaders and it is the duty of every Indian to honour their contributions.
The MLA said that he would continue to extend full support to all programmes and initiatives associated with these great leaders.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / October 28th, 2025
In his monthly radio broadcast, Modi lauded the distinctive character and diversity of Indian coffee, saying it has carved a ‘unique identity’ on the world stage.
For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. | Photo Credit: For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.
Planters in Karnataka have welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for the global recognition earned by coffee from the State’s key producing regions Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on Sunday. However, growers have urged the government to take concrete steps to address persistent challenges affecting the sector.
Coffee Board of India chairman M.J. Dinesh thanked the Prime Minister for recognising the efforts of lakhs of growers and said the acknowledgment would inspire renewed enthusiasm in the sector. “The Prime Minister’s words will encourage planters, traders, and exporters alike. It comes at a time when the board has undertaken several initiatives to boost both productivity and domestic consumption,” he said.
For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. “It is heartening that the Prime Minister has spoken about coffee from Kodagu, which produces the largest share of India’s coffee. His words reaffirm the importance of our work,” said coffee planter Ravi Chengappa from Virajpet in Kodagu.
However, Mr. Chengappa noted that the sector continues to face serious difficulties. “Coffee growers are struggling with rising input costs, labour shortages, damage caused by erratic rainfall, and wild animal attacks. Fluctuating international prices and a lack of adequate crop insurance have also left many growers financially vulnerable,” he said.
Another farmer Dinesh H. from Chikkamagaluru urged both the Central and the State governments to take immediate steps to protect the livelihood of coffee farmers. “We hope the Prime Minister’s appreciation will translate into stronger policy support. The government must address these long-standing issues from better price realisation to support for sustainable cultivation so that the next generation of planters can continue this legacy,” he added.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B P / October 27th, 2025
Bringing Coorg’s rich stories, soil, and spirit to every cup
Bengaluru :
Tata Starbucks is celebrating India’s deep-rooted coffee heritage with the launch of its first-ever estate-exclusive single-origin coffees, sourced from the Nullore, Margolly, and Karadibetta Estates of Coorg, Karnataka.
Building on the success of the India Estates Blend, which first spotlighted the country’s coffee origins, this new range brings the focus even closer to the land and the people behind each bean. Through this launch, Starbucks shines a light on India’s coffee-growing heartlands and the generations of farmers whose craft and care shape every cup. As one estate manager expresses on the coffee pack, “This coffee is our legacy – I warmly welcome you to experience it in your cup.”
Joining Starbucks celebrated lineup from coffee growing regions of Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, this curated trio underscores the brand’s commitment to showcasing the world’s most distinctive coffees while championing India’s own specialty coffee estates.
Rooted in the heart of Coorg’s coffee belt, the Nullore, Margolly, and Karadibetta estates each embody a unique legacy of craftsmanship, biodiversity, and care passed down through generations.
India Nullore Estate: Growing at an altitude of 910 meters above sea level this Arabica coffee offers tasting notes of red apple and nutty sesame flower, with a sweet lemon acidity, a medium-light body, and medium-high acidity creating a balanced yet vibrant cup. Nestled in Madikeri’s mist-covered hills, the estate is a model of circular farming, where nature nurtures every bean under a two-tier canopy of native trees.
India Margolly Estate: With roots dating back to the 1850s, Margolly Estate is in the undulating highlands of southern Coorg. Grown at 980 meters above sea level, this washed Arabica features Barhi date and cinnamon bark notes, rounded by a forest honey finish. The estate’s dense canopy, thriving pepper vines, and rainwater harvesting practices mirror the cool, humid conditions of evergreen forests, producing beans with balanced acidity, clean finish, and distinct character.
India Karadibetta Estate: Perched at 1000 meters above sea level, Karadibetta Estate produces high-altitude Arabica with tasting notes of jamun plum, ginger, and sweet tulsi herbal. Its high acidity and medium body create a layered, aromatic profile that reflects the biodiversity and lush terrain of Coorg’s highlands.
From the Grey Hornbill of Nullore, a natural seed-sower of Coorg’s forests, to wandering elephants through Margolly’s lush pepper trails and the vibrant flora of Karadibetta’s highlands, each package has been thoughtfully designed with illustrations that celebrate the wildlife, biodiversity, and ethical sourcing practices that define these estates and the communities that sustain them.
Mitali Maheshwari, Head of Product & Marketing, Tata Starbucks, said, “India’s coffee origins carry the rich legacy of their people, with stories spanning centuries. We’re proud to share the distinct flavors and craftsmanship of Coorg through these iconic estates that have been harvested for the first time for Tata Starbucks. Each single origin coffee in this range reflects its unique terroir, biodiversity, and the passion of its farmers, brought to life in every cup.”
source: http://www.passionateinmarketing.com / Passionate in Marketing / Home> Marketing / October 28th, 2025
And one such way, followed traditionally and scientifically, is consumption of dishes made from a highly medicinal plant.
Dishes prepared from bamboo shoot are also the highlight of ‘Kakkada padinent’ I Prajna GR
Madikeri :
Monsoon in Kodagu is synonymous with chilly weather due to continuous rainfall. While the traditional houses in the district are equipped with fireplaces to warm up the ambience, the people of Kodagu follow certain indigenous ways to stabilise the body temperature. And one such way, followed traditionally and scientifically, is consumption of dishes made from a highly medicinal plant, locally known as ‘Maddu thoppu’ (medicinal leaves). And this festival of leaves was celebrated on August 3.
With scientific name ‘Justicia Wynaadensis’, ‘Maddu thoppu’ grows abundantly as a bushy shrub in the humid tropical belts of Kodagu. “In 1921, botanist J S Gamble, former official of the forest department, had recorded the abundance of this plant in the evergreen forests of the Western Ghats – from South Canara, Kodagu to Wayanad, Eastern Nilgiris and South Malabar,” says Ulliyada Daty Poovaiah, ex-president of Kodava Academy.
With slender stems and hunter green leaves, they grow like an army of soldiers at places where there is scanty sunlight. They earn special status during ‘Aashada masa’ in the Hindu calendar, also known as ‘Kakkada masa’ in Kodava calendar. This month begins on July 17 and ends on August 16. “The ‘Kakkada’ month is considered inauspicious and no important ceremonies or celebrations take place during this one month,” says historian Bacharaniyanda Appanna.
While tradition says that this month is inauspicious, there is a reason behind it. This monsoon month demands complete attention in the paddy fields and since Kodagu is an agriculture-based district, every household involved themselves in agricultural activities and there was no time for any other kind of celebrations,” explains Daty.
And the continuous work on farmlands in cold weather demanded one to be fit, which is when ‘Maddu thoppu’ came into attaining special status during this inauspicious season. ‘The presence of numerous phyto components lends credence to the use of the plant as a medicinal herb by the local community,” states Dr Latha D in a study conducted on this medicinal plant. With anti-microbial effects, they fight various pathogens that spread widely during the monsoons. “While Justicia Wynaadensis has high medicinal value and is used widely in Ayurveda medicine, the plant attaining maximum medicinal value on the 18th day of ‘Aashada’ month is more of a belief,” explains Ayurveda doctor Udayashankar.
And hence the people of Kodagu religiously follow the ritual of plucking the leaves of ‘Maddu thoppu’ on the 18th day of ‘Kakkada’ and indulge in a variety of elaborate cuisines. “The plant is believed to give 18 types of medicines during this month and a variety of dishes including ‘Maddu thoppu halva’ and ‘Maddu thoppu’ porridge are prepared using pure, traditionally extracted honey. (The plant is believed to lose its medicinal components one by one after the 18th day).
Along with this, a variety of dishes are prepared from country chicken, colocasia leaves, bamboo shoot, crabs, jackfruit and are laid alongside paddy-arrack, which are all believed to stabilise the body heat during chilly monsoons,” explains Daty. This marks the celebrations of ‘Aati padinent’ (padinent translating into 18th day in Kodava language), which falls on August 3 every year. While the presence of Justicia Wynaadensis in the backyards of houses is reducing after urbanisation, they are still widely present on the peaks in the district.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Bengaluru / by Prajna GR / Express News Service / August 05th, 2018
In the past two years, admissions have increased significantly, and from the current academic year, the school has started recording 100% attendance.
Chennangi Government Primary School, located in a tribal settlement in South Kodagu, has introduced a unique concept called Dinnakondu Karyakram, a special programme held every day.(Photo | Express)
Madikeri :
In a heartening initiative aimed at ensuring 100% attendance among tribal students, a government school in Kodagu has taken an extraordinary approach.
Chennangi Government Primary School, located in a tribal settlement in South Kodagu, has introduced a unique concept called Dinnakondu Karyakram, a special programme held every day, which has now made school a fun and welcoming space for all its students. The result: students who once refused to attend classes are now turning up enthusiastically each day.
The school currently has 52 students, all from tribal families. While government schools across the state are allegedly witnessing a sharp fall in admissions due to various issues, this institution is seeing a positive shift. In the past two years, admissions have increased significantly, and from the current academic year, the school has started recording 100% attendance.
“Several tribal students stayed away from the institution. When their parents left for daily wage work, these students sat at home. However, we conducted a survey before the start of this academic year and have ensured that all the children from the tribal colony attend classes at the institution,” shared Susha K K, the headmistress of the institution.
Over five students who had previously discontinued schooling have now returned and are attending classes without hesitation. Last year, the school had introduced Thingaligondu Karyakrama (a special programme every month), where students were encouraged to exhibit their talents through various performances. However, despite this, some students still remained absent.
This prompted the school to implement a new daily programme. As soon as students arrive at the school each morning, they are engaged in various fun activities ranging from yoga, singing, dancing, craft, and literature, to unique games.
“This has resulted in all the students attending classes without fail. To encourage them further, we have started a YouTube channel and we regularly upload the talent shows of the students onto the channel. It is like an incentive to these students, as the entire village watches and celebrates them after watching the YouTube channel,” the headmistress shared.
Admissions have gone up from 39 students to 52 in the past two years. Some students who had even taken transfer certificates were allegedly convinced by the headmistress to return. In addition, the school management conducted awareness meetings with parents, urging them to ensure their children attend school regularly to build a better future.
Despite facing an acute shortage of teaching staff and deteriorating infrastructure, the school management is doing its best to provide quality education to the tribal students.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Prajna GR / August 07th, 2025
The catchment areas in the district are receiving heavy rainfall every day, and the reservoir is filled to its full capacity for the first time in a non-monsoon month.
Water level in Harangi stands at 2,858.09 ft, against its capacity of 2,859 ft on Friday. / Photo | Express
Madikeri :
For the first time, Kodagu’s Harangi reservoir has filled up to the brim in October. Following increasing inflow to the dam, over 5,000 cusecs of water is being let out to the rivers. The catchment areas in the district are receiving heavy rainfall every day, and the reservoir is filled to its full capacity for the first time in a non-monsoon month.
“In the wake of heavy rainfall in the Harangi basin for the past one week, additional water is being released into the river for the dam’s safety,” said Harangi Irrigation Department Executive Engineer IK Puttaswamy.
He confirmed that the inflow into the dam has been increasing day by day for the last five months. The water level as of Friday stood at 2,858.09 feet against its full capacity of 2,859 feet.
Kodagu district has been facing monsoon showers since May this year, and the district continued to receive heavy rainfall every day. Several parts of the district have already received more than 7,600 mm of rainfall this year. The district recorded 2,998.59 mm of rainfall this year from January.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / October 25th, 2025
The Kodavas, while a socio-culturally homogenous community, have evoked considerable interest among anthropologists as their origins and demographic history are much debated.
The Coorgi, or Kodava, community in Karnataka can trace its origins to at least three different ancestral populations, including as geographically diverse as the Palliyar, a tribe from the South Western Ghats, to north Indian Sikh-Jat. The oldest of these can be traced to roughly 3,000 years ago, and the most recent, to about 330 years, reports a first-of-its-kind study analysing genetic data from native Coorgis.
The study, published in the latest edition of the peer-reviewed Communications Biology, underlines that the several ethnic communities in India are not homogenous and are a result of the mixing of diverse ethnic groups over millennia.
The Coorgis, while a socio-culturally homogenous community, have evoked considerable interest among anthropologists whose origins and demographic history are much debated “due to their stark socio-cultural contrast with surrounding populations”, the study notes.
Their population comprises around 3,00,000 individuals, with 1,200 extended families.
Based on studying the genetic history from 144 individuals, the authors, comprising those from the University of Delhi, South Campus, and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, have found that the oldest — called Coorg 3 — had a shared genetic history with the Palliyar population and this lineage came into being about 98 generations before present (GBP).
One GBP is about 25 to 30 years, thus dating them to about 3,000 years ago. Then the Coorg-1 branched away 64 generations, or around 1,900 years ago. The third group, Coorg-2, is relatively recent — about 330 years ago — from the admixture of Coorg-1 and Coorg-3.
The authors came to their conclusions by comparing the frequency of certain genes in the Kodavas to the database of the genetic structure of other caste groups and tribes. The frequency distributions of variations in certain genes enable educated guesses at the times during which certain populations combined, or whether the individuals of a group were largely isolated from surrounding populations.
Traditionally a group of agriculturists with martial customs interlacing their day-to-day lives, the Coorgis practise family exogamy and caste endogamy, the paper notes.
However, the community’s various customs prevalent among the Coorgis “notably deviate from the Hindu way of life” and their cultural origin stories trace them to the Indus Valley during the Mohenjodaro period as well as migratory groups such as the Indo-Greek army of Alexander’s India chapter, pre-Muslim Kurds or pre-Christian Georgian, and an off-shoot of the Indo-Scythian Sakas.
“These being entirely anecdotal or from the early population dating, scientific evidence is lacking,” the authors B.K. Thelma, K. Thangaraj, Anirban Mukhopadhyay, Loumos Kumar, and Kiran Sran note.
“These insights into ancient and diverse genealogies among Coorgis not only explain their unique status in the Indian diaspora but also encourage further research to identify unknown migrations to the Indian subcontinent and thus further unravel its unique demography,” the authors note.
India’s population groups, several of whom maintain distinct physical and cultural practices, trace their ancestry to two large population groups: Ancestral South Indian (ASI) and Ancestral North Indian (ANI). The former trace their lineage to a hunter-gatherer Ancient Ancestral South Indian (AASI) group from 65,000 years and the lineages from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The latter, or the ANI, are a mix of IVC and late Bronze Age Steppe culture (of Central Asian origin).
The mixing of ASI and ANI intermixing between 1,900 and 4,200 years make up the main caste and tribe groups of North and South India.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / by Jacob Koshy / May 20th, 2025
The Codava National Council (CNC) held its 16th human chain awareness campaign in Ammathi of Virajpet taluk on Tuesday, October 21, rallying for the indigenous Codava community’s constitutional recognition and territorial sovereignty.
Under the leadership of Chairman N.U. Nachappa Codava, an advocate, the event spotlighted demands for Codavaland’s political autonomy, Scheduled Tribe (ST) designation, reserved seats in Parliament and State Assembly similar to Sikkim’s “Sangha” model, and enduring rights to ancestral properties and the Animistic “thok-gun” firearm tradition integral to Codava ceremonies.
Nachappa stressed that Codava survival hinges on securing a distinct ethnic identity in the 2026-27 national census through a dedicated column and code, enabling constitutional protections for their mono-ethnic, Animistic faith, which venerates the Cauvery River, forest deities, and ancestral graves without mainstream religious or caste affiliations.
Unlike conventional practices, Codava weddings feature a sacred “patthak” tied by the bride’s mother and obligatory offerings of alcohol and pork, aligning with global indigenous groups like Jharkhand’s Santal (proclaimed Sarna by CM Hemant Soren) or the Kalash, protected by UNESCO’s heritage framework.
From 1871 to 1931, colonial censuses acknowledged Codavas as a unique non-religious, non-caste entity, a status lost post-1947 as they were merged into dominant categories, obliterating their distinctiveness. Nachappa warned that without census reinstatement, their political and cultural voice risks permanent suppression, undermining self-determination.
The CNC voiced concerns over alleged plots to integrate Bangladeshi Rohingyas into Kodagu’s voter rolls, inflating demographics for political gain, and criticised unauthorised land conversions for resorts, such as a 16-acre township within a 2,400-acre estate, enabled by lax governance.
To address labour needs without compromising local rights, Nachappa suggested a guest worker permit system, modelled on the 2015 Modi-Sheikh Hasina Dhaka agreement, mandating seasonal migrants’ return to their regions.
The peaceful chain, joined by Codava leaders like Udianda Chondamma, Badumanda Sanvi Dechamma, and Inanda Prakash Ganapathy, vowed to continue the struggle in the name of sacred Codava symbols and the Constitution, closing with the National Anthem.
The 17th chain is scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025, in Srimangala, building on events in places like Madapur and Chettalli to amplify Codava advocacy for justice and recognition.
source: http://www.hansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka / by The Hans India / October 21st, 2025
“India needs committed teachers who believe in their career development,” opined Professor M D Nanjunda, renowned educationist and secretary of Kodagu Academy for Education and Culture, Gonikoppal.
He was speaking after receiving the prestigious Alevoor Group Award instituted by Alevoor Group for Education at the annual day celebrations of Shanthiniketan English Medium School, Alevoor, on Sunday January 29.
“Unfortunately, many teachers did not take up the teaching profession as a choice, but somehow they landed up in the profession. Now they believe only in bell and the bill,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prof Nanjunda advised the teachers to develop a professional attitude or to quit the profession. He also said that government’s effort to get the state syllabus on par with the central syllabus through a bridge course would be a futile attempt.
Presenting the award, Lions district governor Jayakar Shetty Indrali called upon the parents to instill the qualities of respecting elders and teachers in their wards.
DDPI Nagendra Madhyastha released the annual bulletin of the group,
Alevoor Group president A Ganapathi Kini welcomed the gathering. Secretary A Dinesh Kini introduced the awardee. Principal Roopa D Kini presented the annual report. Teacher Vibha Adiga proposed the vote of thanks. Srinivas Upadhya and Sudha S Puthraya compered the programme.
source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Shubalaxmi / Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (RD) / January 31st, 2012
Kodagu’s Thekkada Bhavani becomes the firstIndian woman to win international skiing medals
While many youngsters influenced by Bollywood dream of entering the world of glamour and fame, here is a girl who chose a very different path — the icy slopes of the mountains. Inspired by adventure and driven by determination, she turned her passion for mountaineering into a historic achievement, becoming the first Indian woman to win medals at an international-level cross-country skiing championship.
A native of Napoklu in Kodagu district, Thekkada Bhavani Nanjunda defied all odds to make not just her hometown, but the entire State and Nation proud. She clinched bronze medals in the 5 km distance race and 1.3 km sprint at the South American Cross-Country Skiing FIS Competition held at Corralco, Chile, in September this year.
Bhavani has represented India at several prestigious international events, including the Nordic World Championships and the Asian Winter Games. A multiple medal winner at the Khelo India Games and the National Skiing Championship, she is now rigorously training to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.
Daughter of Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu) and Parvathi (Divya) of Perur village near Napoklu, Bhavani draws her strength from her roots and family support. Her younger sister, Thekkada Seethamma, works for a private firm in Bengaluru.
Star of Mysore caught up with the trailblazing athlete to learn more about her journey, challenges and preparations for the upcoming Olympics. Excerpts…
Bhavani (second from right) seen with her father Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu), mother Parvathi (Divya) and younger sister Thekkada Seethamma.
Star of Mysore (SOM): How did your journey in cross-country skiing begin?
Bhavani: It all started after I watched the movie ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’. That’s when I first learned about the majestic Himalayan mountain range, which inspired me to join the NCC Air Wing during my college days.
In 2014, I attended a mountaineering camp in Manali — that was my first encounter with snow, something we never see back home in Kodagu. The experience changed my life completely. I wanted to explore the mountains more deeply and decided to take up skiing so I could glide down the peaks I climbed. Over time, I discovered cross-country skiing and fell in love with it for the endurance, precision, and mental strength it demands.
SOM: What inspired you to pursue adventure sports, and cross-country skiing in particular?
Bhavani: I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors and adventure. But my biggest inspiration came from Marit Bjørgen of Norway — one of the greatest cross-country skiers in history. Her strength, determination, and consistency truly motivated me. Watching her made me want to follow that path and represent India in a sport that very few from our country have even attempted.
SOM: Cross-country skiing is known for its toughness. How did you master such a demanding sport?
Bhavani: It’s been a long and challenging journey. I had no background in snow sports and limited access to proper facilities in the beginning. But I stayed consistent — training first in India, then in New Zealand, and later in Europe. Each season taught me something new — from refining my technique to building endurance and mental resilience. It’s a constant process of learning, and even today, every single day on the snow feels like an opportunity to improve.
SOM: How does it feel to be the only Indian woman to win cross-country skiing medals at an international event?
Bhavani: It’s an incredibly proud and emotional feeling. Standing on the podium with the Indian flag was one of the most special moments of my life. But beyond the medals, it’s about proving that Indian athletes can compete in winter sports at the highest level. I hope my journey inspires more youngsters, especially girls, to explore lesser-known sports and believe that nothing is impossible.
SOM: How have your parents supported you throughout your journey?
Bhavani: My parents have been my biggest strength. Even though they didn’t fully understand the sport initially, they always believed in me and supported my dreams. Their encouragement gave me the courage to pursue such an unconventional path. Every achievement of mine belongs to them as much as it does to me.
SOM: Now that you have reached the international stage, what is your next goal?
Bhavani: My primary focus is the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. I want to qualify and represent India with strong performances on the world stage. At the same time, I hope to raise awareness about winter sports and help build better infrastructure in India, so the next generation has opportunities I didn’t have.
SOM: What advice would you give to youngsters wanting to take up cross-country skiing?
Bhavani: I would say, just start. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or ideal facilities. Passion and perseverance can take you a long way. Cross-country skiing challenges you physically and mentally, but it also teaches resilience, patience, and self-belief. If I could do it, coming from a small town in South India, anyone can.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home > Feature Articles / October 19th, 2025
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