Tag Archives: Coorg

I would like to see more players with me from Karnataka: Poovanna CB

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Ahead of the India hockey team’s Australia tour, Poovanna CB, a first-time player from Karnataka, reflects on aspirations for the 2026 World Cup.

Poovanna CB

Bengaluru boy Poovanna CB, a 22-year-old hockey player, originally from Kodagu, has been included in the 24-member national team for the first time. “A couple of years ago, my goal was to be here in the core team. Now that I’m here, I’m just happy to play alongside those I’ve always wanted to play with,” he says, sharing his excitement. “All these players have a lot of experience in the game and I’m learning a lot. I admire Manpreet’s energy, seeing him play like that, Harmanpreet’s consistency and attitude towards the game, Hardik and how hard he plays, and Abhishek and Sukhjeet, who have made a lot of difference for the team in the last couple of years,” he adds, speaking to CE on the hockey field at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) grounds, ahead of his departure with the team to Australia for a four-match series.

The lead-up to the Australia tour has meant rigorous practice for Poovanna, with his days starting early and involving two training sessions before wrapping up in the evenings. He explains, “I get up at 6.30am, freshen up, have breakfast and mentally prepare for the intensity of the day’s training, which starts at 8.30am. Red days are high intensity, orange is a little intensive, and on green days we focus on technicalities and concentration.” In between practice sessions, the youngster has also been pursuing higher studies, “I’ve also been attending online seminars and classes for my MBA and try to read a few chapters of books in between,” he says.

Hailing from Kodagu and being surrounded by a rich hockey culture as a child was how Poovanna first got introduced to the sport. Recalling those early days, he credits his mother with pushing him to pursue the sport further, saying, “As a Kodava, we have huge hockey festivals and my dream as a kid was to play for the family team. I started in Class 5 and would play whenever I got some free time.” He adds, “It was my mom who really wanted to make me something of player. I got selected for one of the first batches in Ashwini Nachappa’s academy. Those three years really helped me grow. The coaches there taught me a lot in terms of my fitness and physicality – I think that’s when I grew up.”

Players from Karnataka and particularly Kodagu, were once a common sight in hockey teams but that hasn’t been the case for the last few years. Poovanna comments, “A few years ago, we had a lot of Karnataka players like Raghunath, SK Uthappa, SV Sunil, in the team which was really nice to see. It is sad that it’s just me now; I would like to see more players with me from Karnataka.” He speculates that the reason may be a lack of opportunities to compete. “We need more exposure tournaments where more players can play and talents can be found. There are hundreds of players and one tournament cannot accommodate them all. In Punjab, things have improved a lot, and there are many opportunities for kids to compete in and showcase their talents,” he says.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Bengaluru / by Mahima Nagaraju / August 12th, 2025

Karnataka SHRC wants Kodagu DC to prevent river pollution

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At the same time, the Central Pollution Control Board conducted an inspection and collected water samples from ten distinct locations along the River Cauvery.

The Save Cauvery organization emphasized that untreated waste and sewage effluent from various towns and villages in the district were being discharged into the river, leading to massive contamination. Photo | Express

Madikeri :

The State Human Rights Commission has sought a comprehensive report from the Kodagu deputy commissioner detailing the initiatives undertaken to mitigate pollution in Cauvery and Lakshmana Theertha rivers. This directive follows a complaint lodged with the commission by members of the Save Cauvery River organisation.

The Save Cauvery organization stressed that untreated waste and sewage effluent from various towns and villages in the district were being discharged into the river, resulting in massive contamination. This complaint was later forwarded to the additional chief secretary overseeing the forest department, who instructed an inquiry and requested a detailed report.

At the same time, the Central Pollution Control Board conducted an inspection and collected water samples from ten distinct locations along the River Cauvery.

Laboratory analyses of these samples confirmed the presence of pollutants, including sewage and untreated waste, particularly from the regions of Bhagamandala, Napoklu, Murnad, Kondangeri, Siddapura and Kudige.

The DC has been urged to implement stringent measures to prevent the inflow of waste and sewage into the rivers. The commission also sought a compliance report from the district administration by April 27, 2026.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / November 10th, 2025

Dr. U.T. Uthappa of Kodagu among ‘Top 2% Scientists in World’

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Mysore/Mysuru:

Dr. Uluvangada T. Uthappa (Sanju), a native of Kodagu, has been recognised among the ‘Top 2% Scientists in the World (2025 Survey)’ compiled by Stanford University, USA.

The annual list, prepared by Prof. John P.A. Ioannidis of Stanford in collaboration with Elsevier and Scopus, identifies the world’s most influential scientific researchers representing about 2% of all scientists globally. The rankings are based on standardised citation metrics and composite indicators of scientific impact.

Dr. Uthappa is currently serving as a Post-Doctoral Researcher/Scientist at the College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, China. Earlier, he worked as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at Chonnam National University (2021-2022) and as a Research Professor at Yeungnam Univer-sity (2022-2023) in South Korea. He obtained his Ph.D in Chemistry from Jain University, Bengaluru, in 2021. His research focuses on addressing global challenges in environment, health, food and agriculture sectors.

He has published over 50 articles in reputed international peer-reviewed journals, with more than 2,300 citations and an H-index of 25. He has also filed two patents in South Korea and one in China.

An extraordinary achiever, Dr. Uthappa is the son of Uluvangada Sabu Thammaiah and Meena, residents of T. Shettigeri, Ponnampet Taluk, Kodagu.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / October 17th, 2025

Field Hockey : 100 years of Indian Hockey: BP Govinda, hero of 1973 World Cup semi-final win over Pakistan, reflects on two historic victories over arch-rivals

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(Courtesy : Hockey India)

India also outclassed Pakistan in the 1975 WC final.

In the last half a decade, the Indian men’s hockey team have bagged two bronze medals at the Olympic Games, and that brought a lot of joy to the fraternity.

India had to wait a bit before experiencing Olympic glory, but that was not the case for a major part of the last 100 years. With 13 medals at the Olympic Games, and three at the World Cup, India is among the most decorated teams in the sport.

Reflecting on India’s glorious history, a two-time World Cup medallist (1973 and 1975) and an Olympic medallist (1972), BP Govinda said, “It is a nice thing and a big achievement that we can celebrate such a glorious 100 years of Indian hockey.

“The journey started all the way back in 1928 with our first Olympic medal, and we are all very happy that Hockey India is making a celebration of this landmark of 100 years.”

Considered to be one of the fastest players during his era, BP Govinda was a crucial part of the Indian team. In 1973, it was his goal that helped India overcome Pakistan in a thrilling semi-final, before they went onto finish with silver.

In the next World Cup in 1975, BP Govinda again played a big role in the team’s success, scoring important goals in the tournament, as India outclassed arch-rivals Pakistan in the final to win the coveted gold medal.

Reflecting on the memories of those World Cup campaigns, BP Govinda said, “1975 World Cup we really outclassed Pakistan in the finals, but before that Malaysia gave us a very tough time in the semi-finals.”

He further added, “When we won the gold medal in 1975 in the World Cup in Kuala Lumpur, there is no words to express the feeling. All the members of the Indian team were overjoyed, and there was a lot of emotions, as it was a first World Cup gold medal, and of course we were all very thrilled to stand on the podium.”

Now as a former player, and a fan of the sport, BP Govinda believes the current generation of players should always aim high.

He said, “As a team, the Indian men’s hockey team should always expect a lot from themselves. It is important to be aiming for the top prize, the team should always aim for a gold medal. We have won two bronze medals in the last two Olympics, I hope we can make it better in the next Olympics and World Cups.”

source: http://www.khelnow.com / Khel Now / Home> Field Hockey / by Alex / November 05th, 2025

Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth Commends 19 Karnataka Battalion NCC in Madikeri for Exemplary Youth Development Efforts

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On November 5, 2025, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, visited the 19 Karnataka Battalion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) in Madikeri. This visit highlighted the Indian Army’s dedication to fostering youth involvement in nation-building and promoting leadership, discipline, and patriotism among cadets.

Throughout his visit, Lt Gen Seth received a comprehensive briefing on the battalion’s notable history, organizational structure, and major accomplishments since it was formed in 1954. The presentation emphasized the unit’s ongoing achievements in training cadets from various schools and colleges in Karnataka, as well as its exceptional performance in adventure activities, social awareness initiatives, and national-level competitions.

Lt Gen Seth lauded the battalion’s steadfast dedication to the central mission of the National Cadet Corps, which is to develop young men and women into responsible citizens and future leaders for the Armed Forces and the nation. He commended the officers and training staff for their professionalism and commitment to instilling values of discipline, integrity, and service in the cadets.

The General Officer also engaged with a group of distinguished cadets who have represented the battalion at various regional and national events, including the Republic Day Parade, the All India Nau Sainik Camp, and the Thal Sainik Camp. He acknowledged their enthusiasm, confidence, and dedication to serving the nation in diverse roles.

In his address to the cadets, Lt Gen Seth encouraged them to uphold the NCC’s motto of “Unity and Discipline” and to focus their efforts on nation-building and social welfare. He emphasized that the NCC offers an unparalleled platform for character development and leadership training, urging cadets to continue pursuing excellence in all aspects of life.

The visit concluded with Lt Gen Seth expressing his belief that the 19 Karnataka Battalion NCC would maintain its tradition of honor, discipline, and service, making significant contributions to the youth development initiatives of the Indian Armed Forces.

source: http://www.shop.ssbcrack.com / SSB Crack / Home / November 06th, 2025

CM announces Rs. 1 crore grant for Chenanda Cup Hockey-2026

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Madikeri:

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday announced a financial grant of Rs. 1 crore for Chenanda Cup Hockey Festival to be held in 2026 in Kodagu district.

Unveiling the Hockey Festival’s logo at his home Office ‘Krishna’ in Bengaluru, the CM praised Kodava community’s deep-rooted association with the sport. 

The 26th Chenanda Cup Hockey will be held at Napoklu from Apr. 5 to May 2, 2026.

“Kodavas mean hockey and hockey means Kodavas,” he remarked, highlighting the region’s legacy of producing national and international-level players, including Asian Games.

Siddaramaiah lauded the Kodava community for preserving its cultural identity while excelling in sports. “Kodava culture has retained its distinctiveness and continues to thrive. It is a matter of pride for our heritage. Their talent and dedication have brought immense honour to the nation,” he said. Pledging Government support, he added, “We will provide Rs. 1 crore for Chenanda Cup Hockey-2026. I will also attend the matches.”

The event was attended by office-bearers of Chenanda Cup, Virajpet MLA and CM’s Legal Advisor Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, Kodagu District Minister N.S. Boseraju, Ministers Byrathi Suresh and Shivaraj Thangadgi.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / November 04th, 2025

Selected for BCCI’s Cooch Behar U-19 probables

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Mysuru:

Kodagu’s Gaurav Appanna Chendanda has earned a coveted spot among the 39 probables shortlisted for the prestigious Cooch Behar Under-19 cricket tournament conducted by the BCCI.

This year he is the only player selected from Kodagu district making this achievement significant for the region.

An all-rounder, Gaurav is a right-arm fast bowler and a right-handed batsman known for his discipline, work ethic and consistent performances. At just 18, he has been pursuing cricket professionally for the past decade.  He is the son of Chendanda Naveen and Reshma couple, who hails from Chembebellur village near Virajpet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / November 03rd, 2025

Mini-hydel proposal near Pushpagiri in Karnataka’s Kodagu dist. kindles concern over Western Ghats conservation

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A proposal has surfaced for the construction of a mini-hydel project across the Kumaradhara river in Kodagu district at a time when the conservation of Western Ghats should be a policy priority.

The proposal in question is for the Sri Shantamallikarjuna Mini Hydel Project across the Kumaradhara in Kodagu, which seeks the diversion of 2.8 hectares of forestland in Kumarahalli village of Somwarpet taluk.

This has been proposed by M/s Poorna Pragna Infrastructure of Hassan district and is pending before the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Madikeri Division, for examination and recommendation.

However, conservationists have expressed concern drawing attention to ecological issues and the degradation of the Western Ghat ecosystem under the guise of mini and micro hydel systems.

Wildlife conservationist Giridhar Kulkarni has appealed to the Forest Department to deny permission for the project on grounds that the site was close to the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary — an important elephant habitat and home to several species listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Mr. Kulkarni said that the project area reportedly falls within the sanctuary’s Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) notified in June 2017 and lies barely 2.5 km from its boundary.

“The region is already facing severe habitat fragmentation due to multiple infrastructure projects, unregulated tourism, and mini-hydel projects, and the new proposal, if approved, will further add to anthropogenic pressure and have a negative impact on the elephant corridor,” said Mr. Kulkarni. While it will threaten the survival of key species, it will also aggravate human-elephant conflict in the region, he cautioned.

Underlining the importance of conserving the project area, Mr. Kulkarni said failure to do so will also result in the degradation of the riverine ecosystem. The attention of the authorities was also drawn to recurring incidents of landslides in the region due to habitat degradation and measures to stop further deterioration of the ecosystem were sought.

The representation made to the Forest Department on October 28, 2025, also sought to remind the authorities of the State government affidavit filed before the Karnataka High Court in Writ Petition No. 9333/2009, wherein it undertook not to permit new mini hydel projects in the Western Ghats.

“The High Court had accepted this undertaking, leading to the cancellation of several proposed schemes. Any new approval, Kulkarni argued, would contradict this commitment and violate the State’s stated conservation policy,” said Mr. Kulkarni.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / November 11th, 2025

Do you love coffee? Attend this unique festival in Mumbai that celebrates the beverage

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India International Coffee Festival kicks off this week, and it promises a packed calendar for javaphiles in Mumbai.

The competitions receive participating entries from home brewers and professional baristas. Pics courtesy/IICF

If you are a coffee lover, and take keen interest in its craft, India International Coffee Festival (IICF) to be held within the Bakery & HoReCa Industry Show is where you should be from October 30 to November 1.

Organised by Speciality Coffee Association of India (SCAI), the event will see six preliminary rounds of competitions including flagship National Barista Championship, Brewer’s Cup Championship, Coffee in Good Spirits, and Latte Art Championship. The final will be held in Bengaluru later this year. It is a great spot to network and engage with representatives from the entire coffee value chain across India.

The jury consists of qualified tasters

DM Purnesh, a fourth-generation coffee grower from Chikmagalur and immediate past president, SCAI, part from industry folks, the event is a great place for entrepreneurs, aspiring professionals, and enthusiasts to understand about coffee and its process. Over the last 23 years that we have been running competitions, we have seen a lot of interest from home brewers.

A participant takes part in a filter coffee making challenge

A qualified jury judges the competitions. Winners at Indian Barista Champion 2025 to be held in Bengaluru later this year will go on to represent at global competition World Barista Championship 2025,” says Purnesh.

Exhibiting brands include Kaapi Machine and Solutions, caffeine superstore Benki, Brewing Gadgets and Trufrost & Butler.

Serious about coffee

(Left) Suhas Dwarkanath; (right) a participant takes part in a previous coffee-making championship

Hamsini Appadurai, president, SCAI, is happy consumers are more aware in recent years and want to know where their coffee comes from. “Gone are the days when we would order a cup of coffee.

We also have a Brewers Cup and Filter Coffee Championship, which sees participation from home brewers as well. We want everybody to catch the coffee bug,” she tells us.

Micro communities around coffee are thriving on social media, WhatsApp and offline. “Makers discuss brewing and brewing techniques. The competitions are becoming a sort of value badge, allowing homebrewers to showcase their talent of working with different kinds of coffees and techniques,” adds Appadurai.

DM Purnesh and Hamsini Appadurai

Suhas Dwarkanath, last year’s winning barista who recently notched the 15th spot at the World Barista Championship 2025, says the festival is a great place to meet with the community exchanging ideas, networking and most importantly learning from others. “Trends today include coffee mocktails and Coffee Omakase sessions where barista-led Omakase coffee sessions are hosted over a multi-course tasting experience just like an omakase sushi dinner. It is a unique journey of coffee beverages for the diner. The expert highlights unique flavours, origins, and innovative preparations, sometimes with accompanying food pairings.”

On October 30 to November 1
At Bakery and HoReCa Business, Jio World Convention Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex. 
Time 9.30 am to 5.30 pm
Register www.bakerybusiness.in 
Entry Rs 500

source: http://www.mid-day.com /mid-day / Home> Mumbai Guide News> Things to do News> Articles / by Phorum Pandya (smdmail@mid-day.com) / Mumbai, October 28th, 2025

Ritvik Muralidhar: Sundari Sundari had to feel original in every language

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Shot across stunning locations in Madikeri, the song from Peter has been simultaneously released in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam.

A still from Sundari Sundari

Peter is about creating hope, says director Sukesh Shetty, describing his upcoming sensitive crime drama that blends love, action, and local traditions. “We made sure the film meets expectations, and we worked as one team. About 50 per cent of the shooting was done in the rain. Music had to be a highlight, so Ritvik Muralidhar worked on a song that could become a trend,” Sukesh added, speaking on the sidelines of the recent launch of the film’s first song, ‘Sundari Sundari’.

Talking about the intent of the song, Ritvik says, “Our goal was to make the song feel original in every language, using all live instruments. The credit goes to the entire team. Three more songs will be released soon.”

The visuals of the song feature Rajesh Dhruva and Raviksha Shetty in a romantic sequence, with lyrics by Nagarjun Sharma, and sung by Kapil Kapilan and Sunidhi Ganesh. Shot across stunning locations in Madikeri, the song has been simultaneously released in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam.

Actor Rajesh Dhruva, who stars in the film, described the journey as special: “Sukesh wanted something extraordinary, and producers Ravi Hiremath and Rakesh Hegde supported the vision. Every note of Sundari Sundari lands on your heart. It’s the kind of song that will stay on everyone’s playlist.”

Peter is a sensitive crime drama rooted in tradition, highlighting the Chende Mela — a 300-year-old drum ensemble integral to Kerala’s cultural performances such as Yakshagana and Bhutakola. The film promises an immersive theatre experience, bringing this centuries-old folk rhythm to life on screen.

Produced under the Vruddhi Studios banner, the ensemble cast includes Janvi Rayala, Pratima Nayak, Raghu Pandeshwar, and Ram Nadagouda, with cinematography by Guruprasad Narnad, collection by Naveen Shetty, and art direction by Devaraj Kala.

source: http://www.cinemaexpress.com / Cinema Express / Home> News / b y A Sharadhaa / September 13th, 2025