A genetic study has traced the ancestry of the Kodavas, the culturally distinct community from Karnataka’s Kodagu district, to nearly 3,000 years ago. Yet, the mystery of their precise origins remains unsolved.
This is the first scientific attempt to explore the genetic makeup of the Kodavas. Conducted by researchers from the University of Delhi South Campus and Hyderabad’s Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, the study was published in Communications Biology.
Using genomic data from 144 Kodava individuals, scientists identified three genetically distinct lineages within the community. They named it: Coorg-1, Coorg-2 and Coorg-3.
Coorg-3 emerged as the most ancient lineage, dating back 98 generations, about 3,000 years. Coorg-1 diverged around 1,920 years ago and Coorg-2, the youngest lineage, appeared roughly 330 years ago from a mix of Coorg-1 and Coorg-3.
Interestingly, mitochondrial DNA passed down from mothers showed that around 40% of maternal lineages in the community are South Asian.
In contrast, Y-chromosome data revealed genetic signatures from Eurasian, Middle Eastern and India-specific male lines. This suggests a pattern of male-dominated migration followed by local assimilation.
Despite numerous theories about the Kodavas’ origin, including links to Alexander the Great’s Indo-Greek army, pre-Muslim Kurds, pre-Christian Georgians or Indo-Scythian Sakas, concrete evidence of origin has remained elusive.
Even in this study, while Coorg-3 stands out as the most genetically distinct group and ancient, its original ancestral source remains unidentified. [Sourced]
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / May 19th, 2025
In Singapore, Kannada actress Varsha Bollamma, who recently enchanted viewers as Bhoomi in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, is enjoying some well-earned relaxation.
The curly-haired beauty shared new photos from her trip, showing off her bright curls and beaming smile while wearing a white shirt and black shorts. She won over fans with her carefree aura and natural charisma when she posed in front of Singapore’s national symbol, the famed Merlion monument, in one of the photos.
Varsha costarred with Sundeep Kishan in Ooru Peru Bhairavakona, where he portrayed Basava, a desperate stunt double who steals a bride’s jewelry and becomes entangled in a series of enigmatic occurrences.
Next up, Varsha Bollamma has two great projects underway and is back to work. In addition to filming for Nithiin’s next film, Thammudu, she is also working on a Tamil film called Iruvam. Varsha never fails to captivate her followers with her presence and performances, whether she is on vacation or on television.
source: http://www.gulte.com / Gulte / Home> Photos> Actress / by Satya B / May 14th, 2025
Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, a Badminton player of International repute, was felicitated by the organisers of Tambaram Badminton Premier League (TBPL) at Chennai recently for his contributions to the field of badminton for the past 45 years.
A six-time National Champion, Arun has won silver and bronze medals at the World Senior Badminton Championships held at Kaula Lumpur (Malaysia) and Sophia (Bulgaria) respectively.
A native of Nelji, close to Napoklu in Kodagu, Arun Poovaiah is presently based in Bengaluru and is involved in coaching budding Badminton players.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 13th, 2025
Karisma Aiyappa (centre) was crowned ‘Mrs. Bharat California 2025’ by Mydream TV USA at an event held at California recently.
Karisma, a HR/logistics professional in Silicon Valley, is a former State-level athlete and a passionate dancer.
Picture above shows Karisma walking the ramp in the traditional Kodava attire
A native of South Kodagu and daughter of Poilengada P. Machamma and late Alemanda Aiyappa, residents of Kuvempunagar in Mysuru, Karisma is married to Abhishek, an employee of Microsoft, Bay Area, California, USA.
Karisma’s participation in various Coorg events in the USA showcases her commitment to her heritage.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Photo News / May 13th, 2025
Coorg oranges, a unique citrus variety with a distinct sweet-sour taste, hold cultural, economic, and ecological significance. Despite challenges like declining production and pests, their Geographical Indication recognition offers hope for revival, making them a valuable crop for farmers in Coorg.
Coorg oranges are vulnerable to pest and disease infestations, such as citrus greening, fruit rot, and the damaging effects of citrus psyllids, which degrade fruit quality. (Image Credit- Pexels)
Coorg oranges, a distinctive variety of citrus fruit, are believed to be a man-made hybrid of mandarins (Citrus reticulata). With their greenish-yellow color, tight skin, and sweet-sour taste, these oranges are a significant part of the agricultural landscape in Coorg, Karnataka, India. Historically cultivated in the region, they have played a vital role in local culture, cuisine, and economic development. Although their production has declined over the years, efforts to preserve this unique citrus variety continue through Geographical Indication (GI) recognition and conservation initiatives.
Significance of Coorg Oranges
Coorg oranges hold deep cultural, economic, and ecological significance, symbolizing prosperity and tradition in the Kodava community. Historically cultivated for centuries, they play a vital role in local cuisine, festivals, and agricultural heritage. Economically, these oranges were once a major cash crop, sustaining local farmers and fueling agribusiness, while also contributing to Coorg’s eco-tourism appeal.
Known for their unique sweet-sour taste, Coorg oranges stand apart from conventional varieties with their resilient greenish-yellow skin and rich natural oils, which enhance their aromatic flavor and make them an integral part of the region’s biodiversity.
Coorg Oranges Cultivation
The cultivation of Coorg oranges requires a specific climate and soil conditions, making Coorg’s Western Ghats region an ideal environment for their growth. Their farming involves careful propagation, maintenance, and harvesting techniques.
Soil and Climate Requirements
Prefer well-drained loamy soil with adequate organic matter.
Thrive in the moderate temperatures and high humidity of Coorg.
Rainfall between 1,500 to 2,500 mm annually is ideal for their growth.
Propagation Methods
Primarily propagated through grafting, ensuring genetic consistency and quality.
Requires regular pruning to maintain productivity.
Proper spacing and irrigation enhance yield and fruit quality.
Harvesting Season
The oranges mature between November and January, marking the harvest period.
Farmers pick fruits when they are firm, full-sized, and greenish-yellow.
Post-harvest handling is crucial to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Challenges
Coorg oranges, once historically significant, now face several challenges threatening their continued cultivation. The shift towards coffee plantations over the years has led to a decline in orange orchards, and poor maintenance practices have further reduced fruit yields.
Additionally, these oranges are vulnerable to pest and disease infestations, such as citrus greening, fruit rot, and the damaging effects of citrus psyllids, which degrade fruit quality. Climate change also plays a role, with erratic rainfall patterns disrupting the growth cycle and rising temperatures affecting flowering and fruit development.
On top of these environmental and agricultural issues, orange farmers also struggle with market and economic difficulties, including a lack of support, incentives, and increasing competition from other citrus varieties that impact demand.
Coorg oranges are not just a fruit—they are a symbol of Coorg’s rich agricultural heritage. Despite challenges such as declining production and pest issues, the GI recognition provides hope for revival. Their distinct flavor, nutritional benefits, and historical significance make them an essential part of Coorg’s identity. Conservation efforts and renewed interest in traditional farming practices may help ensure the survival of this remarkable citrus variety.
First published on: 03 May 2025, 17:28 IST
source: http://www.krishijagran.com / Krishi Jagran / Home> Agripedia / by Kirti Narwal / May 11th, 2025
Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja presiding over the district disaster management authority meeting in Madikeri on Friday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja on Friday directed nodal officers and engineers concerned to take necessary precautionary measures for monsoon preparedness.
He was speaking while presiding over the district disaster management authority meeting, held at his office in Madikeri.
The Deputy Commissioner said monsoon is likely to begin in June, and precautionary measures must be taken to prevent disasters caused by heavy rainfall.
Mr. Venkataraja stressed the importance of ensuring that there is no loss of human or animal life during the monsoon.
Nodal officers have already been appointed and must take necessary measures within their respective jurisdictions, with extra vigilance in sensitive areas, he told the meeting.
Fire and emergency services personnel must gear up to safeguard people in flood-prone areas and coordinate with the National Disaster Response Force teams during the season, he added.
Officials from the Department of Health and Family Welfare were told to stock necessary medicines and raise awareness to prevent the outbreak of communicable diseases. The Deputy Commissioner instructed engineers from the Public Works and Panchayat Raj Departments to repair roads in their jurisdiction.
Additional Deputy Commissioner R. Aishwarya, Additional Superintendent of Police Dinesh Kumar, and other district and taluk-level officials were present.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / May 09th, 2025
The Kodava Students Association (KSA), Mysuru, recently organised a hockey tournament at Chamundi Vihar Stadium, in Nazarbad, featuring 26 teams.
The two-day event showcased the commitment and unity of Kodava students pursuing higher education in Mysuru.
The tournament commenced on May 3 at 11 am in the presence of Ponjanda Ganapathy, President of Mysuru Kodava Samaja; Jammada Ayyanna, Treasurer of Jabhboomi Charitable Trust and Dr. Mathanda Aiyappa, Director of Brindavan Hospital.
KSA President Motteyanda Ishani Kuttappa presided.
During the ceremony, Jammada Ayyanna briefed the gathering on the ‘5-a-side hockey’ format, while Dr. Mathanda Aiyappa inspired the youths with motivating words, stressing the values of sportsmanship and perseverance. Ponjanda Ganapathy reaffirmed the continued support extended to Kodava students.
The opening day saw 18 matches, followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals and the grand finale on day-2, each match receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.
Axilaratorz HC’ emerged as champions, while Bottiyath Naad, Kunda, finished as runners-up. ‘Blaze A’, Murnad, secured third place, with ‘Blaze B’, Murnad, taking fourth.
The closing ceremony featured a distinguished line-up of guests, including social activist Ajjikuttira Kanchan Ponnanna, wife of Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna; Puliyanda Sujatha Bopanna, Dean at Sapient College; Baleyada Karun Kalappa, retired Senior Vice-President and Regional Head of a leading firm; Manjeera Kuttappa, a Progressive farmer from Kodagu and Chendanda Shammi Belliappa, Director of Druid Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and also KSA Advisor.
Kanchan Ponnanna delivered an inspiring address to the students, while Baleyada Karun Kalappa underscored the importance of balancing sports with academics. He urged the younger generation to consider careers in civil services, highlighting the Kodava community’s under-representation. Puliyanda Sujatha Bopanna also shared motivating insights.
Chendanda Shammi Belliappa commended the KSA team for their dedication and efforts to keep the sport of hockey alive in Mysuru. He thanked contributors such as R. Ashok (Mysore University Hockey Coach), Boliyadira Chetan Subbaiah, Muckatira Karthik Nanjappa, Mandepanda Kripan, and others for their support.
In recognition of outstanding achievements, Mandepanda Jasmine Kaveramma, CEO of Growthzone Company, UAE, and Monnanda Tasmai Kariappa, professional motorcycle racer, were felicitated.
Mookonda Sanjana proposed the vote of thanks, while Ajjetira Vikram provided engaging match commentary. The tournament was seamlessly coordinated by KSA’s Hon. Secretary, Mandetira Degul Ganapathy.
KSA Committee Members
The following students have been elected as KSA Committee Members: President – Motteyanda Ishani Kuttappa, Vice-President – Theetharamada Thanush Ganapathy, Hon. Secretary – Mandetira Degul Ganapathy, Joint Secretary – Mookonda Sanjana Damayanthi, Treasurer – Allaranda Kariappa, Joint Treasurer – Puchimanda Dipshika Daychamma, Cultural Heads: Kundyolanda Aiyappa (Amakka) and Kaliyanda Richa Poovamma (Pommakka).
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 07th, 2025
Jktyre Orange 4×4 Fury: A thrilling finale at Bizari Mayhem stage
Bizari :
The final day of the Jktyre Orange 4×4 Fury rally culminated in an exhilarating fashion at the Bizari Mayhem stage, where competitors faced off against some of the most challenging terrain yet.
The event drew spectators and adrenaline junkies alike, eager to witness the fierce competition amidst the iconic landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.
Chethan Chengappa won the first place while V.M Gujral and Aditya Mein secured the second and third place, respectively, in the pro category.
Despite a did not finish (DNF) due to a mechanical failure, Chethan Chengappa claimed the top honours and was crowned the undisputed King of Offroading in Arunachal Pradesh-2024, thanks to the commanding lead he built over the previous two days. His consistency and skill throughout the event earned him a revered place in off-roading history.
Ujjal Namsum and Chow Tseng Tsing Mein were also jointly awarded the ‘best sportsman spirit award’, recognising their courage and empathy towards fellow competitors throughout the event.
In the stock category, Nabam Katung came first, followed by Jawjun Mirip Singpho and Naku Hage Chada, who claimed the second place. Atong Tithak from Jairampur secured the third place.
Nang Suwana was honoured with the ‘best women category award’, highlighting her exceptional performance and inspiring presence.
Sports minister Kento Jini, alongside sports secretary Abu Tayeng and youth affairs director Ramesh Linggi gave away the prizes to the winners in the presence of Jktyre Motorsports head of operations Hari Singh.
source: http://www.arunachaltimes.in / The Arunachal Times / Home> State News / December 16th, 2024
The Codava National Council (CNC) has urged the Union Government to ensure a separate “code and column” for the Codava community in the upcoming General Census and caste-based enumeration scheduled for 2025.
Madikeri:
The Codava National Council (CNC) has urged the Union Government to ensure a separate “code and column” for the Codava community in the upcoming General Census and caste-based enumeration scheduled for 2025. The demand, presented in a memorandum to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Registrar General of India, seeks formal recognition of the Codavas as a distinct, mono-ethnic indigenous warrior clan native to Kodagu in southwest Karnataka.
In a detailed representation given to the central government on Friday and subsequently shared with The Hans India, CNC president N.U. Nachappa Codava welcomed the Centre’s April 30 decision to conduct caste-wise enumeration along with the delayed decennial census, calling it a long-overdue step toward social justice. He stressed that this offers a crucial opportunity for micro and minuscule communities like the Codavas to be accurately documented and constitutionally acknowledged.
“Codavas are a unique mono-ethnological community with no class or sub-caste divisions. Our identity, tied intrinsically to our ancestral homeland of Codavaland, has been historically undermined by administrative mergers in post-Independence censuses,” said Nachappa Codava.
He argued that the Codava community’s omission from independent classification between 1941 and 2011 had severely affected its socio-political representation and cultural survival. From being enumerated distinctly in colonial censuses between 1871 and 1931, the community was, he alleged, subsumed into broader categories under post-1956 frameworks, stripping it of its ethnic and territorial recognition.
The CNC’s memorandum calls for a “social engineering” process that includes:
A distinct column and code for Codavas in the Census 2025, Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the community, Restitution of hereditary land rights lost due to state reforms, Recognition of the Codava language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, Autonomous geo-political status for Codavaland,
Special political representation in Parliament and state legislatures, And recognition under international indigenous frameworks, including those of the United Nations. Codavas, traditionally known for their martial legacy, were one of the few communities permitted to retain arms under British rule—a right they view as emblematic of their warrior identity. “India’s diversity should not be measured merely in numbers. Communities like the Codavas may be small in size, but our cultural and historical distinctiveness deserves statutory recognition and protection,” the CNC noted.
The memorandum has also been copied to the United Nations, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and the Karnataka Department of Social Welfare, underlining CNC’s efforts to raise the issue at both national and international levels.
This fresh call for constitutional safeguards comes amid growing discourse around caste enumeration, identity preservation, and indigenous rights in India’s evolving demographic policy landscape Nachappa told Hans India
source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Hans News Service, Hans India / May 02nd, 2025
Described as a fantasy drama, Kaalanaagini is directed by Vishruth Naik
Kaalanaagini, starring Harshika Poonacha has wrapped up shooting, and is nearing release. The first look poster was released by Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar.
Described as a fantasy drama, Kaalanaagini is directed by Vishruth Naik and produced by Rakshitha Gowda under the Madhura Movies banner. Madhu Mariswamy serves as project head.
The first look poster of Kaalanaagini sees Harshika in the shape of snake. The film is touted to be blend of emotion, action, and suspense, with the team currently focused on building anticipation with the final phase of promotion, before eyeing a June release.
Along with Harshika Poonacha, Arjun Vedanta also plays a prominent role in the film. The supporting cast includes well-known names such as Avinash, Sharath Lohithaswa, Ugram Manju, and Vijay Chendoor.
On the technical team, cinematography is handled by Arun Suresh, while music is composed by Sathish Babu. MN Vishwa takes charge of editing, with stunt choreography by Narsimha, dance choreography by Dhankumar, and VFX by Laksved Sangamesh.
source: http://www.cinemaexpress.com / Cinema Express / Home> News / by A Sharadhaa / May 01st, 2025
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