Tag Archives: Kodagu District

HCL National Squash Championship: Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar, Joshna Chinappa clinch gold

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Chennai :

Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar clinched a gold medal in the men’s doubles category with a commanding 2-0 victory in the HCL Nationals Doubles Championship here on Wednesday (May 15).

In the women’s doubles category, Pooja Arthi and Rathika Seelan secured the top spot with a thrilling 2-1 win. Abhay Singh teamed up with Joshna Chinappa to clinch gold in the mixed doubles category.

The HCL Nationals Doubles Championship, a collaborative effort between HCL and the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), concluded with resounding success at the Indian Squash Academy in Chennai from May 13th to May 15th, 2024.

Marking a significant milestone in India’s squash history, this event, part of the HCL Squash Podium Program, revived the Doubles Squash Championship after a hiatus of 17 years.

The winners were honoured by esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Guest Dr Atulya Misra, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Government, and Thulasimathi Murugesan, the gold medalist from the Asian Para Games 2022, who graced the finale ceremony as the guest of honour.

India’s recent success in doubles squash on the international stage, particularly at the Asian Games, served as a catalyst for HCL to reintroduce the Doubles Squash Championship. This initiative aimed to inject renewed enthusiasm into the sport and provide a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills in doubles play.

Rajat Chandolia, AVP and Head of Brand at HCL, expressed delight at the enthusiastic participation of squash players in the championship. He congratulated all the winners and participants, highlighting HCL’s commitment to supporting Indian players and elevating squash to new heights through initiatives like the Squash Podium Program.

Cyrus Poncha, Secretary General of SRFI, hailed the resurgence of doubles squash in India, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of SRFI and HCL. He stressed upon the significance of nurturing talented players and expressed confidence in the bright future of Indian squash.

“I am truly excited to see the renaissance of doubles squash in India, thanks to the mutual efforts of SRFI and HCL. It was truly thrilling to see the clashes between the double pairs. I believe that Indian Squash has a bright future and the stars of tomorrow will emerge from these events. Our association with HCL has been monumental for the sport and our combined efforts will continue to nurture talented players,” said Poncha.

Abhay Singh, who emerged victorious in both the men’s and mixed doubles categories, expressed his gratitude to HCL and SRFI for organising the championship. Looking ahead, he expressed determination to excel at the Asian Doubles Championship in Malaysia.

Abhay Singh, said, “I have always been interested in playing in the doubles category. I thank HCL and SRFI for organising this championship after a long time in India. I have played with Velavan in Commonwealth but this was my first time playing doubles with Joshna. It is such an honour to team up with her. I was sure that I would win in both categories but now it’s time to win gold at the Asian Doubles Championship in Malaysia.”

The championship showcased gripping matches, including the finals contested by pairs such as Abhay Singh & Velavan Senthilkumar, Rahul Baitha & Suraj Chand in the men’s category, Pooja Arthi & Rathika Seelan, and Janet Vidhi & Nirupama Dubey in the women’s category, and Abhay Singh & Joshna Chinappa, and Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu & Rathika Seelan in the mixed doubles category.

The HCL National Doubles Championship not only celebrated sporting excellence but also marked a significant step forward in the resurgence of doubles squash in India, promising an exciting future for the sport and its talented athletes.

Its game time – play now!

source: http://www.mykhel.com / MyKhel.com / Home> MyKhel Sports / by MyKhel Team / May 15th, 2024

Whodunnit? Thousands of trees burnt inside Kodagu reserve forest

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In a move to erase evidence, they burned the axed trees risking the spread of forest fire across the Talacauvery sanctuary region.

Trees axed inside Padinalkukadu Reserve Forest area Photo | Express

Madikeri :

Thousands of trees were illegally felled inside the reserve forest area close to Talacauvery sanctuary in Kodagu. The incident came to light after Kodagu Ekikarana Members highlighted the issue after visiting the spot. Suspecting involvement of foresters in the act, they have filed a complaint in this regard with the Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna.

Located on the edge of Talacauvery Sanctuary, Mundrote Forest Range of Padinalkunadu Reserve Forest area is home to over 6,000 species of trees and plants. However, thousands of trees have been axed illegally inside the reserve forest area and three accused have been booked in the case.

In a move to erase evidence, they burned the axed trees risking the spread of forest fire across the Talacauvery sanctuary region.

When Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga forum members visited the spot, they found that over 5 acres of reserve forest land was allegedly cleared by the encroachers.

Virajpet DCF Jaganath shared that the department is still ascertaining if the chopping was carried out in the reserve forest area or at the private land touching the reserve forest area.

Nevertheless, FIR filed by the department states that the incident took place in the reserve forest area. “Stringent action will be taken against the culprits,” DCF added.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / May 11th, 2024

8 AM Metro on Zee5 – Netizens call Gulshan Devaiah-Saiyami Kher starrer another sweet film after Laapataa Ladies

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8 AM Metro can be streamed on Zee5 and OTTplay Premium now

A still from 8AM Metro. (Courtesy – PR)

Laapataa Ladies has been the talk of the town ever since it released. Now that people have witnessed Gulshan Devaiah and Saiyami Kher’s film 8 A.M. Metro, they cannot help but feel the same sweet vibe from the movie. Netizens have unanimously praised the Raj Rachakonda directorial. Here are some reactions to note…

Netizens have sweet comments on the film

While one user called 8 A.M. Metro as sweet as Laapataa Ladies, another wrote, “Unexpected person, idelible memories.” A third user called the film impeccable. A fourth one called it therapy. Basically, the film has touched one-and-all. It is to be noted that this was also the case with the critics, back when the movie was out in theatres.

More about the film

8 A.M. Metro is the story of Preetam, played by Gulshan Devaiah and Iravati (Saiyami Kher). They each face fears after their sudden interaction in the train from Nanded to Hyderabad. Iravati gets panic attacks while travelling in a train. Preetam, on the other hand, is depressed and haunted by his past. The two explore more about themselves and each other during their journey. The film is now out on Zee5 and OTTplay Premium.

8 A.M. Metro also stars Umesh Kamat, Kalpika Ganesh, Nimisha Nair, Dheer Charan Srivastav, Jay Jha, Madhu Swaminath and Saurabh Dixitz apart from Gulshan and Saiyami. The movie was made on an estimated budget of Rs. 4 crores and was mainly shot inside a train.

Zee5’s latest offering

8 A.M. Metro is Zee5’s latest offering. Prior to this, the OTT platform was trending owing to The Broken News S2 release. The show starred Sonali Bendre, Jaideep Ahlawat and Shriya Pilgaonkar in the lead roles. The second season saw what the highs and lows which came with Radha Bhargava (Shriya) and Dipankar Sanyal (Jaideep). Sonali played the role of Amina Qureshi, who ensured Radha’s safety in jail and her bail from the place.

source: http://www.ottplay.com / OTT Play / Home> News / by Reema Chhabda / May 10th, 2024

Embark on a Coorgi Gastronomic Journey at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield

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This summer, treat yourself to a remarkable culinary adventure at the Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield’s Coorgi Food Festival. Under the expert guidance of Chef Smitha Kuttayya Boppanda, a master of spice, embark on a gastronomic journey to the lush landscapes of Coorg with a menu that brilliantly showcases the region’s bold and aromatic spices.

Kick off your dining experience with delightful starters such as the fragrant Chekke kuru fry, the tender Mathi meen barthad, and the unique Kadambutt stuffed with bamboo shoots. Cleanse your palate with the refreshing nallamalu kanni soup and the comforting aadkaal soup.

Dive deeper into the culinary heritage with signature dishes like the iconic Pandi curry, the aromatic Meen curry, and the robust Keema curry. These are thoughtfully paired with cherished dishes like Cheemen pulav, Mutton pulav, otti, Nool puttu, or Thaliyaputt.

For those who prefer vegetarian fare, there is an impressive selection of dishes including the rich Avare kuru curry, the enticing Baimbale curry, and the seasonal kaad Mange curry, accompanied by delightful sides like paalputt and double beans pulav.

This May, gather your loved ones and head to Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield for a mesmerizing exploration of Coorg’s kitchen traditions with Chef Bopanna’s exceptional culinary creations. Experience the essence of Coorg, where each dish celebrates the region’s flavors and heritage.

source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Travel and Tour World / Home> Hotel News / May 09th, 2024

Varsha Bollamma’s interactive Tamil-English film Iruvam selected for Cannes Film Festival

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The innovative, interactive film has been selected as part of the Let’s Spook Cannes event. The film stars Varsha Bollamma in the lead role.

Varsha Bollamma-starrer Iruvam has been developed by ManMar Games.

The bilingual film Iruvam, made in both Tamil and English, has been selected as one of the four entries worldwide for the Let’s Spook Cannes event as part of the Cannes Film Festival . The film, which sees Varsha Bollamma as the lead, is innovative because it’s interactive.

Varsha excited for Cannes

Industry tracker Ramesh Bala made the announcement of the film’s selection on his X (formerly Twitter), writing, “.@Manmargames innovative project @iruvam_ManMar has been officially selected for the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival’s “Let’s Spook Cannes” event. A Landmark Indian Entry in the World’s Premier Film Festival #Iruvam starring @VarshaBollamma.” An excited Varsha re-tweeted the post, writing, “Super super super excited for this one!!! Eeeeeeeeepppp!!!!”

About Iruvam

Iruvam is an interactive film that blurs the line between film and gaming. The innovative full motion video (FMV) will offer a narrative where the viewers’ choices will impact the film’s storylines and the outcome, which will offer numerous endings. The description sounds similar to Netflix’s Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. Directed by Manoj Annadurai, who is known for the independent English film Get Happy, the film will feature Sidhu Kumaresan, Shanmathi and Bala Guru.The film will be unveiled at Cannes between May 17-20 and will be subsequently released on a mobile platform.

Upcoming work

Varsha was recently seen in the Telugu film Ooru Peru Bhairavakona with Sundeep Kishan and is yet to announce her upcoming projects. The actor, who debuted with the 2015 film Sathuran got fame when she starred in Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha’s 2018 film 96. She debuted in Malayalam the same year with Kalyanam. In 2020 she debuted in Telugu with Choosi Choodangaane, which also starred Shiva Kandukuri, and in Kannada with Mane Number 13 the same year. She has since acted in films like Jaanu, Middle Class Melodies and Akka Kuruvi.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / by HT Entertainment Desk / May 08th, 2024

Kodagu’s First Flyover Opens For Public Use

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Now, travelling to holy places Talacauvery and Bhagamandala becomes hassle-free.

In what is considered a significant relief for travellers and residents, commuting to holy places like Talacauvery and Bhagamandala will now be hassle-free as the authorities have opened the Bhagamandala flyover — Kodagu’s first flyover project — for public use.

The State Government had allocated Rs. 28 crore for the project, which was executed by Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL). With the completion of the flyover, villagers surrounding Bhagamandala and Talacauvery can now travel with ease, even during heavy rainfall, without fearing floods. However, there has been no official inauguration due to the Model Code of Conduct, which  remains in effect until June 4.

No fear of floods

During the rainy season, Brahmagiri Hills, Talacauvery, Korangala, Cherangala, Bhagamandala and surrounding areas experience heavy rainfall, leading to an overflow of water at Triveni Sangama, the confluence of the Cauvery, Kannike and Sujyothi rivers. 

This overflow often disrupts vehicular movement on Madikeri-Bhagamandala-Talacauvery and Bhagamandala-Ayyangeri-Napoklu roads. Additionally, heavy rains sometimes result in the isolation of Bhagamandala, effectively turning the town into an island for many days. 

The flooded roads render them impassable for vehicles, causing significant inconvenience for residents who struggle to access essential items and groceries. School children are unable to attend classes due to the flooded roads, exacerbating the situation. The completion of the flyover has alleviated these challenges, bringing much-needed relief to the residents of Bhagamandala and surrounding areas.

880 metres-long flyover

The newly-constructed flyover serves as a vital link between the Bhagamandala entrance gate and Talacauvery road, providing connectivity to Napoklu as well. Spanning 880 metres in length, it comprises 36 pillars and includes a 200-metre connecting road with underground drainage (UGD) facilities. 

Designed to accommodate vehicles weighing over 60 tonnes, the authorities have set a speed limit of 40 kmph. Streetlights have been installed along with rainwater drainage pipelines and the painting works have been completed.

Causes for delay

Despite receiving approval from the Siddaramaiah-led Government in 2018, the project faced delays due to challenges such as land acquisition, relocation of electric poles and tree removal by the Forest Department. The floods and COVID-19 lockdown further contributed to the sluggish progress of the project.

The flyover construction has been finished ahead of this rainy season. Vehicles of various types and sizes can now traverse the flyover smoothly, ensuring a hassle-free journey for those  heading towards Bhagamandala-Talacauvery and Bhagamandala-Napoklu, said Harinarayana, Flyover Project Director.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / May 06th, 2024

A.B. Malathi Alankaliya

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , ,

Obituary

A.B. Malathi Alankaliya (67), a poet, writer, retired employee of State Bank of Mysore (SBM) and a resident of Bhargavi Nagar, passed away in the early hours of today in city.

A native of Somwarpet in Kodagu, she leaves behind her husband K.R. Bhandari, a retired Bank official, son Canara Bank Officer Oshan and a host of relatives and friends. Malathi is the younger sister of senior writer and poet of Kodagu Shivadevi Avaneeshchandra.

Last rites were held at Muktidhama in Vijayanagar 4th Stage in Mysuru today.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore/ Home> Obiturary / April 30th, 2024

Kundyolanda Family Cup Creates History

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Earns Guinness World Record for largest field hockey tournament

The annual Kodava family hockey tournament, hosted this year by the Kundyolanda family, has made history by earning itself a Guinness World Record for being the largest field  hockey tournament.

Originating in 1996 with just 60 teams, the festival has grown exponentially, boasting 360 teams participating this year with over 4,200 players, including men, women and children of all ages.

The achievement of this Guinness World Record is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Kodava Hockey Academy, which has elevated the Kodava hockey tournament to a global level.

The certificate from the Guinness Records Society was presented by Swapnil Dangarikar, official adjudicator and spokesperson for Guinness World Records based in London to Pandanda K. Bopanna, President of the Kodava Hockey Academy.

This year’s tournament also featured various activities such as a food fair, financial literacy camp, health care camp and marathon, organised by the Kodava families, which garnered widespread attention.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / April 29th, 2024

Cmde. Rajesh Sharma Inspects Sainik School Kodagu

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Kushalnagar:

The Annual Inspection by Sainik Schools Society was carried out at the Sainik School Kodagu on Apr. 23 by Cmde. Rajesh K. Sharma, the Inspecting Officer, Sainik Schools Society, New Delhi.

The Officer, at the helm of affairs of Ministry of Defence, is taking care of all the 33 Sainik Schools and the newly opened Sainik Schools under PPP mode functioning under the aegis of Sainik Schools Society, Ministry of Defence.

On his arrival, Cmde Rajesh Sharma was welcomed by Col. Amar Jeet Singh, Principal, Sainik School Kodagu. The Inspecting Officer offered his tributes to the war heroes by laying wreath at the ‘Wall of Heroes.’

The Officer was welcomed with a guard of honour and a special Assembly was conducted. The new Prefectorial body of Sainik School Kodagu for the year 2024-25 took oath during the Investiture Ceremony.

The Officer conferred rank badges to meritorious cadets. Cadet Aditya Kumar took charge as School’s Cadet Captain. The School Appointments took a solemn oath to uphold the school motto of valour, determination and honesty in high esteem and discharge their duties to the best of their ability and trust bestowed on them.

Cdt. Deepti and team presented a welcome dance while welcome song was presented by Cdt. Raman and team.

In his address, the Inspecting Officer encouraged the cadets to embrace open-mindedness, ambition, humility and approachability. He emphasised the importance of the newly appointed cadets leading by example and acting as role models for their peers.

Cmde. Sharma urged the cadets to explore and embrace local art forms to preserve the region’s rich heritage.

During his visit the Officer inspected the utilisation of government funds and the ongoing projects in the school. He also reviewed various academic and training activities including sports, games activities and facilities, horse riding arena, skating rink etc.

The school’s contribution in terms of number of cadets entering into NDA and preparation towards UPSC – NDA examination were also reviewed. Cadets’ academic performance in Class X and XII CBSE examinations were appreciated by the Inspecting Officer.

Wg. Cdr. P. Prakash Rao, Administrative Officer, Sqn. Ldr. Manpreet Singh, Vice-Principal, Senior Master, Staff Members, NCC and PI Staff and cadets were present on the occasion.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 28th, 2024

Battle Brews Over Coorg’s Coffee Estates: From Serenity to Sprawling Villas-locals fear environmental disaster

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HIGHLIGHTS

Plans to turn 2400 acres of BBTC Coffee Gardens into large villas and townships have sparked strong opposition and deep concern among locals and environmentalists alike, creating a tempest of controversy around the serene hills of Coorg.

Madikeri:

Plans to turn 2400 acres of BBTC Coffee Gardens into large villas and townships have sparked strong opposition and deep concern among locals and environmentalists alike, creating a tempest of controversy around the serene hills of Coorg.

The proposal, orchestrated by a resort tycoon, has ignited a fierce debate, with critics decrying the potential environmental devastation and cultural erosion that could accompany the transformation of these verdant landscapes. The Codava National Council spearheaded by NU Nachappa has opposed it on two major counts.

“The roots of this dispute delve deep into Coorg’s past, tracing back to the acquisition of the land by the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation (BBTC) during the colonial era. Once communal property of the indigenous Codava tribe, the estate passed through various hands before landing in the possession of a resort magnate, sparking memories of Coorg’s colonial subjugation and indigenous displacement” Nachappa told.

Economic Gain vs. Environmental Loss

At the heart of the controversy lies the stark dichotomy between economic gain and environmental preservation. The sale of the estate, purchased at a fraction of its current market value, has raised eyebrows and suspicions, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the transaction’s legality and ethical implications.

“The conversion of lush coffee estates into sprawling villas and townships not only threatens to disrupt the delicate ecological balance of the region but also poses a grave threat to vital water sources and biodiversity hotspots. The ramifications extend beyond environmental concerns, touching on the preservation of indigenous culture and heritage, which risks being overshadowed by the specter of unchecked development” Nachappa told in a complaint lodged with the President of India, Prime Minsiter and Chief Secretary of the union government for forests and environment.

A Call to Arms

Following the CNC taking up the issue on a global scale, voices from all over the places where Codava people have migrated and relocated “decisive action to halt the encroachment on Coorg’s natural splendour and cultural heritage. Calls for stringent legal measures echo through the hills, demanding accountability from all parties involved, from buyers and sellers to local authorities and regulatory bodies. “The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as Coorg stands at a crossroads, torn between preserving its pristine landscapes and succumbing to the allure of unchecked development. The fate of this idyllic paradise hangs in the balance, with stakeholders grappling with the weighty consequences of their decisions” Nachappa relayed some sentiments of his countrymen.

In the face of mounting opposition, the battle for Coorg’s soul rages on, with the outcome poised to shape the region’s destiny for generations to come. As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: the future of Coorg hinges on the choices made today.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Hans News Service / May 01st, 2024