Tag Archives: Madikeri

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

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

Madikeri’s Gandhi Memorial Park set to get a major facelift

Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju inspects the works at the park; he says a sum of ₹50 lakhs has been sanctioned for the works by the government and an additional sum of ₹5 lakh will also be released.

Will the Gandhi Memorial Park that is coming up in Madikeri be modelled on New Delhi’s Rajghat?

Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju inspected the Gandhi Memorial Park works and directed the officials to get the works done at the earliest. “Expedite and complete the memorial park works ensuring quality,” said Mr Boseraju.

He said a sum of ₹50 lakhs has been sanctioned for the works by the government and an additional sum of ₹5 lakh will also be released.

Mantar Gowda, MLA, said the work has to be completed at the earliest and there shouldn’t be any delay in its completion.

He assured to sanction a sum of ₹10 lakh from the MLA’s local area development fund, and added that steps will also be taken for releasing additional grants for the project.

Sarvodaya Samiti’s past president T.P. Ramesh said the project required more funds in addition to the funds already allocated by the government and the MLA. In this regard, a formal request has to be made to the government for additional allocation to the government.

Mr. Ramesh said the memorial park has to be constructed on the lines of Raj Ghat in New Delhi. The memorial in Madikeri has to become a model and the development has to be done keeping the concept in mind, he suggested.

Nirmiti Kendra Project Director Sachin explained about the blueprint of the project.

Sarvodaya Samiti President Ambekallu Kushalappa and others were present.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India > Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / January 04th, 2024

Hockey festival celebration of heritage and sport for Kodava community in Karnataka

The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where Kodava players from over 300 families come together to play.

The Kodava Hockey Namme (festival) will be held from March 30 to April 28 in Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

For the Kodava community of the small, hilly district of Kodagu in Karnataka, now scattered across the globe, it’s time to return to their roots for an event that’s deeply ingrained in their cultural fabric — the Kodava Hockey Namme (festival). This annual extravaganza brings together families from far and wide to celebrate their love for hockey and their shared heritage.

Organised in the small town of Napoklu, 21 km away from the district headquarters of Madikeri, this festival is no ordinary affair. Recognised as one of the largest field hockey tournaments globally, it has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records.

This year, the excitement is soaring as the Kundyolanda family takes the reins, transforming it into the ‘Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival’. The year’s event will be held from March 30 to April 28.

Fostering community spirit

The Kodava community organises the inter-family hockey tournament every year where players from over 300 local families come together to play. The sporting event has no bar on age or gender. The only rule of forming a team is that all members must be from the same family.

Dinesh Cariappa, convenor of the Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival (KHC), said, “This year, we aim to set a new milestone by hosting the largest field hockey tournament yet. It’s not just about the sport. It’s about fostering community spirit and giving back to our people.”

The organisers have introduced a range of initiatives this year, encompassing career guidance sessions, motivational speeches by experts across different domains, all geared towards empowering the youth. Additionally, free health check-ups, discussions on wealth management, and talks covering diverse topics such as defense, aviation, and agriculture have been arranged for attendees.

Ramesh Muddaiah, president of Kundyolanda Hockey Carnival, said, “We are hopeful that the Karnataka Government will extend its support to the hockey festival, just as it has done for previous editions of the event. Government backing would bolster our efforts to make this carnival a grand success.”

Food festival to cultural extravaganza

With 360 families slated to participate, the enthusiasm is palpable. The carnival promises much more than just hockey matches. A food festival showcasing Kodava delicacies and also other cuisine, matrimonial initiatives, and cultural events celebrating the rich heritage of the community are all part of the extravaganza.

“There are plans for educational sessions on traditional Kodava folk songs, popularly known as Baloo Paat, ensuring the preservation of cultural traditions. Apart from these, two marathons — 5 km and 10 km — are scheduled, selfie points dotted across the venue to capture memorable moments, creating lasting memories for attendees,” Mr. Cariappa said.

The carnival kicks off with much fanfare on March 30 with an inaugural match between the Indian Navy team and the Coorg 11 team. It sets the stage for a month-long celebration of sport, culture, and camaraderie.

Kodava Hockey Festival has come a long way

The late Pandanda Kuttappa started the concept of the Kodava family hockey tournament, which later evolved into a significant sporting event and festival. “Mr. Kuttappa initiated the Kodava Family Hockey Tournament in 1997, organised by the Pandanda family initially, with the belief that harnessing the inherent affection Kodavas have for hockey could foster unity among families and the community,” Mr. Cariappa explained.

From the last one decade, the tournament has emerged as a platform for the community members to discuss trade and business interests, besides scouting for marital alliances, according to Mr. Muddaiah. “In the first tournament, which was organised in 1997, nearly 60 teams took part. The format of the tournament was such that every year, one of the Kodava families had to host the event. Now, over 300 families participate involving 3,000 hockey players,” he added.

Preparation for the 2024 edition is underway at the Napoklu General Thimayya Ground, one of the town’s three mud grounds. Temporary bleachers surround the ground to accommodate approximately 30,000 spectators. Various amenities, including galleries, lighting, speakers, and display boards, have been installed.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshab Devaiah B / March 22nd, 2024

Tied in knots: Tree, sapling married off in Kodagu

Unique rural wedding: Peepal tree and gooseberry sapling united in matrimony for village welfare.

A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling being married off at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk on Monday.
A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling being married off at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk on Monday

Madikeri :

Hundreds participated in a unique wedding ceremony hosted in the rural part of Kodagu. A tree and a sapling were wedlocked in a spiritual matrimony as the residents prayed for the welfare of their village.

A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling were married off in a ritualistic ceremony at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk. The rituals were hosted for the welfare of the village under the guidance of a priest from Kasaragod district. The wedding ceremony was organized by the Botlappa Youth Association of the village.

The association was established in the village in 1993. As it completed 10 years in 2003, the members planted a peepal tree in the village premises as it was bestowed a spiritual status, the association members shared. In 2012, as per the advise of an astrologer, they carried out a thread ceremony for the peepal tree when it turned nine years old. The astrologer had also suggested that the tree be married when it turns 21 years.

It is believed that deities Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma reside within the Peepal tree, which is associated to great sacrosanct values in rural areas. While Peepal tree was personified as a groom, a saree was draped around the gooseberry sapling and ‘kanya dhana’ and other rituals were observed in par with the Hindu wedding.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / Express News Service / February 06th, 2024

Foundation Stone for State-of-the-Art Sub-Regional Science Center and Planetarium in Madikeri to be Laid Tomorrow

HIGHLIGHTS

Madikeri, often referred to as the Scotland of India, is set to witness the establishment of a cutting-edge sub-regional science center and planetarium at a projected cost of approximately 12.26 crores, courtesy of the Department of Science and Technology

Foundation Stone for State-of-the-Art Sub-Regional Science Center and Planetarium in Madikeri to be Laid Tomorrow

Bengaluru:

Madikeri, often referred to as the Scotland of India, is set to witness the establishment of a cutting-edge sub-regional science center and planetarium at a projected cost of approximately 12.26 crores, courtesy of the Department of Science and Technology. The foundation stone for this landmark project will be ceremoniously laid tomorrow by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Nestled across 3 acres of pristine land in Karnangeri village, Madikeri, the facility will feature an 8-meter dome for the construction of the planetarium. Minister of Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology, NS Boseraju, highlighted Madikeri’s unique advantage of minimal light disturbance at night, making it an ideal location for observing stars and planets.

In an official statement, Minister NS Boseraju emphasized the department’s commitment to promoting science and technology, fostering scientific education, cultivating rational thinking, and raising awareness about astronomy. The initiative aims to establish science centers and planetariums across district centers in the state.

Kodagu district, with its unpolluted skies and minimal light interference, provides an exceptional environment for stargazing. Minister Boseraju likened Kodagu to other picturesque locations such as Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh, Run of Kutch in Gujarat, Nile Island in Andaman and Nicobar, and Matheran in Maharashtra. The sub-regional science center and planetarium project is envisioned to ignite interest in space exploration and provide students in the district with valuable educational opportunities.

The foundation stone laying ceremony, scheduled for tomorrow, February 25, will be graced by the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Minister NS Boseraju expressed optimism about the transformative impact of this initiative on the scientific landscape of the district.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home / by Bharath Anjappa / The Hans News Service / January 24th, 2024

Class eight girl’s project helps save stream in Madikeri

While a majority of science projects are done using the internet, Shreesha went a step ahead, and did a real world project.

Alongside help from other students, Shreesha led an awareness campaign to help preserve the stream | eps

Madikeri :

An honest effort from an eighth grade girl of the government school at Kodagarahalli of Suntikoppa in Kodagu district has helped preserve a local stream.

The work for her science project has now earned the respect of the district administration and district police, who have ordered that CCTV cameras be installed to prevent dumping of waste near the stream.

Shreesha AS, daughter of Suntikoppa residents Shiju and Sandhya, is a student of the Kodagarahalli Suntikoppa Nadu Government High School. She was nominated to represent the school at the 31st National Children’s Science Convention, where she won the ‘Young Scientist’ recognition for her presentation — ‘Pollution across river banks’.

While a majority of science projects are done using the internet, Shreesha went a step ahead, and did a real world project. With the help from her father, she visited the stream near her locality to collect inputs for her project. She surveyed the Haraduru stream, collected details about its importance to the locality. She recorded sound bytes from local residents and learnt that the stream has been the lifeline of the locality for ages. 

Staff deployed near stream to stop littering

The survey, however, also introduced her to the sad state of affairs of the stream where she found loads of plastic and other garbage dumped by its banks. From coffee pulping to plastic waste, the stream was being polluted by a few locals and tourists who visited the spot.

Shreesha compiled the story and submitted a report on the pitiable condition of the water body to the district administration, district police and the local panchayat. Her efforts persuaded SP K Ramarajan to deploy the staff near the stream to stop littering. Further, the administration has ordered the local body to install CCTVs to control garbage dumping at its banks. With the help from her classmates, Shreesha also led an awareness campaign across the locality even as residents were urged to take responsibility in preserving the stream.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Express News Service / January 01st, 2024

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


Gruha Jyothi launched in Kodagu; all guarantees to be implemented by December

As many as 1.30 lakh people have enrolled under the scheme and have already availed the benefit worth ₹2.90 crore, says Minister in charge of district .

Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju speaking after launching the Gruha Jyothi scheme in Madikeri on Tuesday, August 15. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement

The Gruha Jyothi scheme was formally launched in Kodagu on Tuesday, August 15. Inaugurating the scheme, which is one of the guarantees of the Congress government, in Madikeri, Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju said 1.30 lakh people have enrolled under the scheme, availing benefits to the tune of ₹2.90 crore.

The Minister said the government would be spending a sum of ₹60,000 crore on the guarantees and all guarantees announced by the government will be implemented by December.

Amidst the spiraling prices of essential commodities, the guarantees would be able to bring some succor to the poor people, he opined.

Virajpet MLA and Legal Advisor to Chief Minister A.S. Ponnanna said the guarantees would help to empower the people and added that the Shakti scheme – the guarantee of free bus rides for women – has strengthened the transport corporations. “The empty buses are now running full,” he added.

He said the Congress government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has kept its promises even though the Centre refused to give rice for distribution under Anna Bhagya scheme. However, the government decided to pay money equivalent to five kg of rice. The guarantees will help to economically empower the people, he added.

Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda said 1.30 lakh out of 1.68 lakh eligible beneficiaries have enrolled under the Gruha Jyothi scheme. He told the officials to ensure that other eligible beneficiaries enroll under the scheme at the earliest so that they could also avail the benefits.

Describing the Congress government “pro-poor”, he expressed confidence that there won’t be any mismanagement under the free power scheme and added that the bill will be generated if the consumption crossed 200 units.

The MLA urged the Minister to put on hold the request from 30 staff of the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) for transfer from Kodagu.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau, Mysuru / August 15tj, 2023

Possessing wildlife items with ancestral history not a crime: Karnataka MLA

Member of legislative assembly (MLA) and chief minister Siddarmaiah’s legal advisor, AS Ponnanna on Tuesday stated that possessing wildlife products with ancestral connections should not an offence.

MLA AS Ponnanna stresses importance of recognising the historical importance of heritage items. (Facebook/ AS Ponnanna)
MLA AS Ponnanna stresses importance of recognising the historical importance of heritage items. (Facebook/ AS Ponnanna)

Member of legislative assembly (MLA) and chief minister Siddarmaiah’s legal advisor, AS Ponnanna on Tuesday said that possessing wildlife products with ancestral connections should not be an offence.

Ponnanna’s statement came in reference to the stay order issued by the state high court in response to a notice served to Rajya Sabha member and actor Jaggesh by forest officials.’

Speaking to reporters in Madikeri on Tuesday, Ponnanna said that the forest ministry should instruct forest officers not to take any action against those who possess wildlife products until the high court delivers its verdict.

Ponnanna stressed the importance of recognising the cultural and historical significance of heritage items and expressed his belief that it is not appropriate to initiate legal proceedings against those who possess such items. “There is a need for forest officials to have a comprehensive understanding of the wildlife protection laws and urged the government to provide clear guidance to these officers,” he said.

The issue at hand pertains to the use of wildlife products traditionally employed by the people of Kodagu for generations. Ponnanna mentioned that he intends to meet with the chief minister and engage in discussions aimed at providing relief through the state government.

The ongoing legal actions taken by the forest department against individuals who possess wildlife products have instilled fear among hundreds of residents in Kodagu district. Given that the district is a hilly region known for its abundant wildlife and was once encouraged for hunting during the British colonial period, wildlife protection laws were only established in 1972. Prior to that, hundreds of landowners in Kodagu proudly displayed wildlife antlers and skins in their homes as a status symbol, he said.

In Kodagu, people showcased wildlife antlers and skins in their homes as a status symbol. “As I have possessed deer antlers for more than a century, I did not declare them with the forest department,” a coffee grower from Ponnampet in Kodagu told HT on condition of anonymity. He suggested that the state government should provide one more opportunity for individuals to declare their possession of wildlife products.

“The state government should act in accordance with the law. No concessions should be granted to anyone, nor should the possession of wildlife products be allowed,” wildlife expert KM Chinnappa told HT. He warned that if the government permits such practices, hunting could make a resurgence. Chinnappa emphasized the need to change our habits and strictly follow the law, which is enforced for the benefit of the people.

“We will not file suo moto cases or conduct checks in houses in Kodagu,” Madikeri DCF H Bhaskar told HT. He explained that the state government had previously given people a chance to declare their possession of wildlife products until 2003. Whether the state offers another chance for declaration or not, he added, it would be considered an offence.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru News / by Coovrcolly Indresh, Mysuru / November 01st, 2023

Global Kodava summit to unite the community from across the globe

Funds of nearly Rs 3 crore are being spent for the event that has garnered support from all the Kodava Samajas including the Samajas established abroad.

Members of the Kodava community
Members of the Kodava community (Express)

Madikeri :

A Global Kodava Summit aims to unite the Kodava community under a single roof and highlight the culture, traditions, and crises faced by the community. Several members of the community in the district fear that the culture, traditions, and practices of the Kodavas are at stake and will soon vanish.

The summit will host various cultural programmes, exhibitions, and seminars to preserve the unique practices of the Kodavas. It will be hosted by the Connecting Kodavas Trust and will be held on December 29 and 30 in Madikeri.

The summit is the fruit of efforts taken by the trust for several years. “Since 2017, the Connecting Kodavas forum has been involved in collecting details of every Kodava clan from the nook and corner of the district,” said Niran Nanjappa, one of the core members of the Connecting Kodavas Trust.

Meanwhile, volunteers have visited all the villages in the district to document details of the roots of the various Kodava clans.

“As per our research, over 1,000 Kodava clans are in existence. Many other clans have vanished. A few clans have just two members and the biggest clan has over 650 members. All these details are documented and will be revealed during the summit that is likely to witness participation from 20,000 to 25,000 people,” Niran Nanjappa added.

“During our research, we have found several anecdotes relating to the roots, practices and evolution of the Kodava clans. We have insights into the issues that led to the vanishing of several clans too. All these anecdotes will be shared to ensure that the community flourishes and our culture is preserved,” he opined.

“After the summit, we also plan to release websites for each clan so that the members of the clan can track their lineage,”Niran Nanjappa added.

Funds of nearly Rs 3 crore are being spent for the event that has garnered support from all the Kodava Samajas including the Samajas established abroad.

Alongside seminars, the Global Kodava Summit will also have demonstrations of the various practices, architecture, and ancestral history of the community as well as interactive workshops.

The forum also aims to establish a model village in the near future across five to six acres of land to highlight the uniqueness of the community.  

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Express News Service / October 31st, 2023