Tag Archives: Kodagu First

Kuppanda team wins Kodava hockey cup title in Madikeri

Nearly a month after the Kodava hockey tournament started at Napoklu in Kodagu district, the finals were held on Sunday.

The Kuppanda family team beat 3-time champion Kulletira team by a margin of 4-2 goals in the shoot out. Kuppanda became champion for the first time in the 23rd edition of the hockey tournament.

Kuppanda team wins Kodava hockey cup title in Madikeri

Madikeri :

Nearly a month after the Kodava hockey tournament started at Napoklu in Kodagu district, the finals were held on Sunday. The Kuppanda family team beat 3-time champion Kulletira team by a margin of 4-2 goals in the shoot out. Kuppanda became champion for the first time in the 23rd edition of the hockey tournament.

Kulletira had won the tournaments in 1998, 1999 and 2002.

It entered finals for the first time since 16 years, while for the Kuppanda team it was their first shot at the title.

Kuppanda and Kulletira scored one goal each in the stipulated time period. Then they were given a shoot out opportunity which resulted in the Kuppanda team win the match by 4-2 goals. Kuppanda Somaiah scored a goal for his team in the 16th minute of play while Kulletira Avinash equalised the score for his team in the 22nd minute.

Kuppanda team received Rs 3 lakh cash and a trophy. Satisfied with the runners-up title, Kulletia team got two lakhs and a trophy. The winners will also get a rolling trophy given by the Kodava Hockey Academy. A cultural programme was organised before the final tournament. Kodava traditional dances were performed in the middle of the field , and many hockey fans from the district and outside the district took part, Kodava family members witnessed this exciting match in Napoklu in the scorching sun.

The 24th year of hockey is planned in 2024 by the Kundyolanda family team.

The main guests on the occasion were Pandanda Leela Kuttappa wife of the Kodava hockey founder late Pandanda Kuttappa, Air Marshal Baltikalanda U Chengappa, Kuttanda Sudhin Mandanna of Kaig Group, former Indian hockey captain Dhanraj Pilley, Olympian Cheppudira S Poonacha, Triple Olympian Zafar Iqbal, Olympian Anjaparavanda B Subbaiah, Cheranda Kishen, Ajjikuttira Kanchan Ponnanna and others.

Appachettolanda Mittu Erappa presided. Kodava Hockey Academy president Pandnada K Bopanna inaugurated. Convener of the tournament Appachettolanda Manu Muthappa was present.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> City News> Mysuru News / by G Rajendra, TNN / April 10th, 2023


The Tamara Coorg welcomes Saswata Banerjee as new General Manager

Banerjee brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of success with Indian and international brands, making him a valuable addition to The Tamara family

Saswata Banerjee, General Manager, The Tamara Coorg

The Tamara Coorg, a leading luxury resort in the hills of Coorg, announced the appointment of Saswata Banerjee as its new General Manager. With 21 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Banerjee brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of success with Indian and international brands, making him a valuable addition to The Tamara family.

His dedication to excellence and adventurous spirit have garnered him numerous accolades, including the prestigious MD’s Club Member Award at TAJ Exotica, Maldives, and the esteemed LQA Star Award at COMO Bhutan. Under Mr. Banerjee’s adept stewardship, RAAS Jodhpur achieved international acclaim, securing a place among the “Top 50 Best Hotels in the World” in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Awards 2020.

Shruti Shibulal, CEO & Director of Tamara Leisure Experiences, said, “The appointment of Saswata Banerjee as General Manager at The Tamara Coorg underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. His extensive industry knowledge and steadfast dedication to excellence are in perfect alignment with our vision at Tamara Leisure Experiences. We eagerly anticipate his invaluable contributions in enhancing our guest offerings and upholding our esteemed status as a leading luxury destination.”

source: http://www.hotelierindia.com / Hotelier India / Home> Operations / by Staff Writer / September 20th, 2023

Poetic rendition of East End Hotel, Coorg in Sonnet style

The East End Hotel is a well-established hotel and restaurant located in Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka, India. It’s known for its comfortable accommodations and a restaurant that offers a diverse menu of Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Amidst Coorg’s embrace, where nature’s sighs,
East End Hotel’s dishes, a feast for eyes,
In sonnet’s verses, their essence shall rise.

Spice-Infused Symphony: Chicken Biryani

In fragrant notes, where spices entwine,
Chicken Biryani, a dish divine,
Each grain tells tales of flavors that shine.

Tandoor’s Enigma: Seekh Kebab’s Delight

From the tandoor’s flame, where secrets ignite,
Seekh Kebab’s Delight, a savory flight,
Each bite whispers stories of the spicy night.

Garden’s Bounty: Vegetable Manchurian

In the garden’s embrace, where colors unite,
Vegetable Manchurian, a veggie’s delight,
Each ball of joy, in the sauce takes its flight.

Coastal Rhapsody: Fish Curry’s Dream

By the coastal breeze, where waves excite,
Fish Curry’s Dream, a sea’s endless sight,
Each morsel dances in the flavors so right.

Paneer’s Serenade: Paneer Butter Masala

In creamy melodies, where curdles unite,
Paneer Butter Masala, a vegetarian’s light,
Each bite in richness, brings comfort to sight.

Sweet Euphoria: Gulab Jamun’s Bliss

Under dessert’s spell, where sweetness takes flight,
Gulab Jamun’s Bliss, in syrup’s embrace so tight,
Each dumpling of joy, in the sugary night.

At East End Hotel’s table, where dining complies,
These dishes, in sonnet, their essence shall rise,
In Coorg’s heart, where nature’s beauty belies,
A poetic feast, under the open skies.

A sonnet is a structured and highly stylized form of poetry that has been used for centuries in various literary traditions, most notably in English and Italian poetry. The sonnet is a structured and versatile poetic form known for its precise structure, rhyme scheme, and meter. Its rich history and ability to convey complex themes in a concise manner have made it a beloved and enduring style of poetry in both traditional and contemporary poetry.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> Blogs> Lifestyle / by Food Connoisseur in Symphony of Taste, Lifestyle. TOI / September 10th, 2023

Rare variety of lemons weigh 5 kg in Kodagu

HIGHLIGHTS

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg.

Madikeri:

A coffee plantation in Polibetta in Kodagu has become the unexpected home of a rare lemon variety, with each lemon weighing approximately 5 kg. Local laborers and farmers are astonished at the sight of these unusually large garden lemons.

The unique lemons have thrived in the coffee estate of Mookonda Viju Subramani, a former Zilla Panchayat member and prominent social worker. The lemon plants, have reached a height of about 6 feet and bear lemons ranging from small to an impressive 5 kg in size.

Mookonda Viju Subramani, the owner of the plantation, shared the story behind the rare lemon variety, saying, “Four years ago, I purchased citrus fruits from the Mysuru market. I planted the seeds in the backyard, and within a few days, two saplings emerged. After transplanting them to the garden using organic manure, the plants grew for three years but did not produce flowers or fruits. Consequently, I was unable to identify the plant. A few months ago, the plant blossomed with large, jasmine-like flowers, which eventually transformed into pods. Over the next few months, these pods grew into enormous lemons.”

This particular lemon variety is rarely found in Italy and other European countries. Known for its adaptability to various climates, the oval fruits contain small seeds, and their dull skin encases juicy pulp. Often used in the preparation of pickles and cold drinks, the lemons also boast several health and medicinal benefits. The unexpected growth of these rare and massive lemons has sparked excitement and curiosity among locals in Polibetta, Kodagu.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by The Hans India, Hans News Service / December 25th, 2023

Youngster Abhin Rai from Kodagu emerges as champion of Indian National Rally Championship

Abhin was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally.

Abhin Rai (centre) awarded the Rising Star trophy at Kodagu; Abhin Rai in action during the INRC rally. (Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

A youngster from Kodagu is emerging as the favorite driver in the motor rally world even as he was declared the National Champion 2023 at the Indian National Rally Championship. Abhin Rai, a 24-year-old motor enthusiast from the district, shares his dream and experience at the recent rally.

Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) is a pan-India rally championship that was held across six stages this year. The rally began at Arunachal Pradesh and then was held at Chennai, Coimbatore, Kodagu, and Bengaluru.

Abhin enthusiastically took part in this rally and has emerged as the champion. He was leading in points, was named the National Champion in four categories, and was declared the second runner-up at the Junior-level INRC rally. He also won the Rising Star award during the rally at Kodagu. 

“Ideal Racing has supported me throughout the rally and my Honda City was perfectly tuned by Amshad Pasha.

Each category has a different number of participants and they were over 60 in all. The overall experience was great despite facing technical issues in Hyderabad,” shared Abhin. He turned up first in three stages and fifth in Coimbatore. However, he did not finish the rally in Hyderabad due to technical troubles. Nevertheless, his unabated performance helped him emerge as the champion.

He started off rallying only in 2022 and he participated only at the K1000 rally last year. “I could not finish the rally then and it was like a test run,” he recalled.

However, in his second year as a rallyist, Abhin has made everyone’s head turn. “I started driving at a very young age and I drove at an autocross in a pickup. I later bought a race car without the knowledge of my folks and I attended races discreetly. However, after winning several trophies, I revealed my passion to my parents, who are now very supportive,” he added.

Apart from the national championship, Abhin has won 48 trophies in autocross even as he has bigger dreams for the sport.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Prajna GR, Express News Service / December 24th, 2023

ASICS India Brand Athlete Rohan Bopanna and Actress Gul Panag Unveil the Official Race Day Merchandise for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024

Tennis player Rohan Bopanna & Bollywood actress Gul Panag during the launch

Bangalore :

ASICS, the Japanese sportswear brand, today launched the limited-edition merchandise for Asia’s most prestigious Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. ASICS Brand Athlete Mr. Rohan Bopanna along with actress & avid runner Ms. Gul Panag unveiled the new collection at ASICS store on Linking Road in Mumbai.

The vibrant design of this collection by ASICS conveys a strong story of energy, persistence and passion for running. The Gel Kayano™ 30 Limited Edition shoes are designed with a unique blend of colors like Electric Blue/Aquarium for Men and White Sun Coral for Women, to appeal both male and female runners.

The specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 running shoe has Mumbai 2024 emblazoned on the side. The shoe provides maximum comfort and style reflecting Mumbai’s colorful culture. The GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoes is equipped with advanced features like a 4D Guidance System for stability and FF BLASTTM PLUS ECO cushioning for softness, the shoes aim to energize runner’s every stride of their run.

The limited-edition race day t-shirt design shows the circular pattern that encapsulates the spirit of unity via the “Enso” motif from Japanese traditions. It is crafted in seven symbolic colours denoting various facets of life, the collection aims to bring all marathon participants together in a harmonious cooperation towards a shared goal. The t-shirt and shoe bring out the complete essence of the city of Mumbai and will connect and bond well with the runners of Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024.

Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South ASIA said, “We are delighted to have Mr. Rohan Bopanna and Ms. Gul Panag onboard to reveal our official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024. Inspired by the dynamic energy of this city and event, our goal is to design apparel that empower athletes at every skill level to unleash their complete potential. This collection is a testament to our dedication in fostering a commitment to help individuals achieve their athletic goals.”

Commenting on the event, ASICS Brand Athlete, Rohan Bopanna said, “I am glad to be a part of this special day being a Brand Athlete for ASICS India and unveiling the official merchandise for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024 is truly special. As an athlete, I believe having the innovatively designed gear that seamlessly blends style with high performance is paramount. These specially crafted GEL-KAYANOTM 30 shoe and t-shirt perfectly captures the vibrant energy of the city.”

Mr. Anil Singh, Managing Director, Procam International, said, “ASICS has been a longstanding partner of the Tata Mumbai Marathon and the Procam Family. They have continuously set new benchmarks with top-of-the-line event merchandise which are highly sought after by our participants. As we gear up for the 19th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, here’s a race filled with inspiration, determination and the beating heart of India in every step #HarDilMumbai.”

The TATA Mumbai Marathon 2024, is a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race and will be hosted on Sunday, 21st January. The event will flagged off from the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal.

The official TATA Mumbai Marathon merchandise will be available to shop on flagship ASICS stores across the country and online brand store, link – https://www.asics.com/in/en-in .

source: http://www.passionateinmarketing.com / Passionate In Marketing / Home> Article / by Passionate in Marketing / December 13th, 2023

Lack Of Rains To Chikklihole Dam: Submerged Shiva Temple Surfaces In Kodagu

Kushalnagar:

A Temple that was submerged after the construction of the picturesque Chikklihole Reservoir in Kushalnagar Taluk of Kodagu district has emerged from the waters, thanks to the dry spell and the failure of monsoon. People are coming to see the Temple in hordes and the place has become a picnic spot and a weekend getaway.

The Shiva Temple, constructed in 1983, has become accessible to people after 40 years.  In April 2017 too, the Temple was visible for a brief period but was soon covered in water as it rained in June that year. This time, however, people have a chance to see the Temple till the next normal monsoon which is scheduled to start in June 2024

The Temple, located right in the middle of the Chikklihole Reservoir is visible along with the sanctum sanctorum and the pillars on the sides. There is a small well that was used as a source of water for the Temple before the Reservoir was constructed. Apart from the Shiva Temple, there are structures dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Nandi.

Clear warning, say residents

Clear warning, say residents

The re-emergence of the Temple six months before the onset of monsoon season is causing concern among locals about the potential implications and raising anticipation of a looming water crisis. This situation suggests a possible worsening of the water scarcity issue within the Cauvery basin. Usually, in December, the water inside the Chikklihole Reservoir does not dry up like it has happened this year. The current circumstances serve as a clear warning, say the residents.

Unfortunately, this year, due to inadequate rainfall in Kodagu, the Cauvery River did not flow vigorously, resulting in a water shortage in the Reservoir. The Chiklihole Reservoir, constructed for irrigation and agricultural purposes, saw water flowing into it in the initial months and excess water was discharged. As a result, the Reservoir lost its storage capacity as it did not rain beyond the initial months.

Thousands of farmers depend on the Chikklihole Dam for irrigation in the villages of  Kushalanagar, Rangasamudra, Chikka Bettageri and Dodda Bettageri, Nanjarayapatana, Virupakshapura, Rasoolpura, Bollur, Basavanahalli and Guddehosur.

Even in hot summers these years, there was rarely a situation like the submerged Shiva Temple emerging from the waters. This year, however, the dam has become dry, exposing the structures beneath it.

150-year-old Temple

150-year-old Temple

The Shiva Temple was built 150 years ago by the Magdoor family, hailing from Kerala. The family migrated from the neighbouring region and were indulging in agriculture for a living. As the place had a special significance due to its spiritual nature, astrologers from Kerala were invited there. On the advice of the ‘thanthri’, the Temple was constructed with regular pujas and a grand Mahashivarathri and temple fair that used to be attended by thousands of people.

The Chikklihole Dam was built in 1983 when R. Gundu Rao was the CM to store and supply 0.18 tmcft (thousand million cubic feet) of water. When the Temple was submerged, the Government, honouring religious sentiments, ordered an alternative Temple to be built nearby. Many channels were constructed to take the water to the fields of tail-end farmers. 

In 1993, the descendants of the Magdoor family constructed another Temple of Lord Vishwanatha nearby and consecrated the main idol of Lord Shiva from the old submerged Temple in it. The Vishwanatha Temple of Magdoor went on to become famous.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / December 10th, 2023

Steeped in culture and packed with wonder: Our guide to witnessing Kodagu’s grace and hospitality

Set in the heart of Kodagu (now Coorg), The Tamara Coorg crafts a scenic getaway for the discerning traveller. Surrounded by nature’s bounty and soaked in tales of history, the property gives its guests a peek into the culture and the livelihood of the people in the region.

When it comes to an experiential holiday in the hills, Coorg is the first destination that comes to mind. Previously known as ‘Kodagu’, this hill station has bragging rights to misty mountains, sprawling coffee plantations, quaint monasteries, pepper vines, and a host of other scenic delights for the discerning traveller. 

The etymology of the words “Kodava” (referring to the indigenous people, language, and culture) and “Kodagu” (referring to the land) traces back to the root word ‘Koda’ of uncertain meaning. Some speculate it signifies ‘hills’ while others suggest it signifies ‘west.’ In 1956, Kodagu (now Coorg) was established as a district and became a part of the Karnataka state.

The Land of Coffee

Kodagu thrives as the land of coffee, with the Robusta variety being its primary plantation crop. Notably, Kodagu alone contributes around 33% of India’s coffee production. The region is also renowned for its exquisite wild honey. Nestled within a 184-acre coffee estate, the Tamara Coorg resort stands as a testament to preserving the surrounding ecosystem, untouched by extensive development, making it a truly unique creation in this coffee-rich land.

The flora and fauna of Kodagu

Blessed with three wildlife sanctuaries—Brahmagiri, Talakaveri, and Pushpagiri—and the Nagarhole National Park (also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park), located within the Kodagu district, the region boasts an unparalleled wealth of flora and fauna, showcasing its remarkable biodiversity.

Kodava people

The Kodava people, also known as Kodavas, are the inhabitants of this land. They speak the Kodava language and traditionally identify as land-owning agriculturists, following a patrilineal social order deeply rooted in martial customs. Kodavas hold their ancestors and weaponry in high reverence, and uniquely, they are the only community in India permitted to carry firearms without a licence. Kodagu has also produced several notable hockey players.

Kodava festivities

Kodava festivities revolve around their agricultural practices and military traditions. The community celebrates three main festivals that are distinctive to their culture—Kail Podh, Kaveri Changrandi (Tula Sankramana), and Puthari. In recent times, under the rule of the Haleri Rajas, Kodavas have also embraced a few Hindu festivals, including Ugadi, Ayudha Puja, Dussehra, and Mahashivaratri.

Kodava trails at The Tamara Coorg

Embark on our immersive Kodava Cultural Tour and be transported to a bygone era steeped in tradition. Journey to a nearby village, where a guide will accompany you to an Ainmane, a quintessential ancestral home of the Kodava people.

Walk through the halls of the Ainmane, as it unveils its architectural marvels and treasured artefacts. Delve into the essence of Kodava heritage as you learn about their unique way of life.

Indulge in a tantalising Kodava meal that showcases the region’s authentic flavours and local ingredients. Carry with you cherished memories of the warmth and hospitality as you bid adieu to the Kodava people.

In and around Kodagu

Scouting for activities to partake in when in Kodagu? Here’s a list of destinations that are a stone’s throw from the city and are worth a visit:

  • Abbey Falls | Distance: 44 km
  • Talakaveri And Bhagamandala | Distance: 40 km
  • Bylakuppe | Distance: 76 km
  • Nalknad Palace | Distance: 7.5 km
  • Padi Igguthappa Temple | Distance: 9.2 km
  • Chelavara Falls | Distance: 13 km
  • Omkareshwara Temple | Distance: 38 km
  • Raja’s Seat and Nehru Mantap | Distance: 38 km
  • Madikeri Fort And Palace | Distance: 37 km

For more information about planning a Kodagu itinerary and booking a stay at the plush property of The Tamara Coorg, click here

source: http://www.cntraveller.in / Conde Naste Traveller / Home> India> Hotels & Resorts / Published by The Tamara Coorg / August 04th, 2023

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100. Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

Ashwini-Tanisha climb four spots to world no. 28
India’s women’s doubles pair of Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa (Pic: File Pic)

Indian women’s doubles pair, Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto, jumped four places to reach world number 28 in the latest BWF rankings.

Ashwini, 36, and her 20-year-old partner Tanisha, who started playing together only in January this year, finished runners-up at the Syed Modi International Super 300 tournament in Lucknow on Sunday.

The duo earlier won the Nates International Challenge and Abu Dhabi Masters Super 100.

Priyanshu Rajawat, who had reached the semi-finals in men’s singles, also gained a place to break into the top-30.


All other Indian singles players stayed static with HS Prannoy (8) remaining the top ranked shuttler from the country, followed by PV SIndhu (12), Lakshya Sen (17) and Kidambi Srikanth (24).

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty occupied the world number 2 spot, while Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand stayed at 19th position.

source: http://www.mid-day.com / Mid-Day / Home> Sports News> Other Sports News> Article / by PTI / December 05th, 2023

‘ANVESHANE-2’ Project Expo Contest At CIT On Dec. 15

Ponnampet:

A unique project exhibition titled, ANVESHANE-2, aimed at inculcating scientific and research bent of mind among students leading to new perspectives, will be held at the Coorg Institute of Technology (CIT) here on Dec. 15.

The competitions would be held in three different groups. Students from SSLC, PUC and Diploma Engineering are eligible to participate in the event.

SSLC students can come up with projects relating to Science and Environmental Science and the winners of first three places will take home a cash prize of Rs. 8,000, Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 4,000 respectively.

Subjects for PU students for coming up with the projects relate to the streams of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. There are two cash awards in each of the category with the winner eligible to get Rs. 10,000 and the runner-up getting Rs. 6,000.

In the Diploma Engineering category, projects are related to the fields of Computer Science & Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Electronics & Communication Engineering. Cash award would be given in each of the categories. Winner will get Rs. 10,000 while runner-up will take home a sum of Rs. 6,000. A maximum of three teams are eligible to take part in the competitions with a maximum of four students in a team.

Students interested should register names before Dec. 5 in the google form issued to Colleges for registrations.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / December 03rd, 2023