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
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
Kodagu’s Thekkada Bhavani becomes the firstIndian woman to win international skiing medals
While many youngsters influenced by Bollywood dream of entering the world of glamour and fame, here is a girl who chose a very different path — the icy slopes of the mountains. Inspired by adventure and driven by determination, she turned her passion for mountaineering into a historic achievement, becoming the first Indian woman to win medals at an international-level cross-country skiing championship.
A native of Napoklu in Kodagu district, Thekkada Bhavani Nanjunda defied all odds to make not just her hometown, but the entire State and Nation proud. She clinched bronze medals in the 5 km distance race and 1.3 km sprint at the South American Cross-Country Skiing FIS Competition held at Corralco, Chile, in September this year.
Bhavani has represented India at several prestigious international events, including the Nordic World Championships and the Asian Winter Games. A multiple medal winner at the Khelo India Games and the National Skiing Championship, she is now rigorously training to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.
Daughter of Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu) and Parvathi (Divya) of Perur village near Napoklu, Bhavani draws her strength from her roots and family support. Her younger sister, Thekkada Seethamma, works for a private firm in Bengaluru.
Star of Mysore caught up with the trailblazing athlete to learn more about her journey, challenges and preparations for the upcoming Olympics. Excerpts…
Bhavani (second from right) seen with her father Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu), mother Parvathi (Divya) and younger sister Thekkada Seethamma.
Star of Mysore (SOM): How did your journey in cross-country skiing begin?
Bhavani: It all started after I watched the movie ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’. That’s when I first learned about the majestic Himalayan mountain range, which inspired me to join the NCC Air Wing during my college days.
In 2014, I attended a mountaineering camp in Manali — that was my first encounter with snow, something we never see back home in Kodagu. The experience changed my life completely. I wanted to explore the mountains more deeply and decided to take up skiing so I could glide down the peaks I climbed. Over time, I discovered cross-country skiing and fell in love with it for the endurance, precision, and mental strength it demands.
SOM: What inspired you to pursue adventure sports, and cross-country skiing in particular?
Bhavani: I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors and adventure. But my biggest inspiration came from Marit Bjørgen of Norway — one of the greatest cross-country skiers in history. Her strength, determination, and consistency truly motivated me. Watching her made me want to follow that path and represent India in a sport that very few from our country have even attempted.
SOM: Cross-country skiing is known for its toughness. How did you master such a demanding sport?
Bhavani: It’s been a long and challenging journey. I had no background in snow sports and limited access to proper facilities in the beginning. But I stayed consistent — training first in India, then in New Zealand, and later in Europe. Each season taught me something new — from refining my technique to building endurance and mental resilience. It’s a constant process of learning, and even today, every single day on the snow feels like an opportunity to improve.
SOM: How does it feel to be the only Indian woman to win cross-country skiing medals at an international event?
Bhavani: It’s an incredibly proud and emotional feeling. Standing on the podium with the Indian flag was one of the most special moments of my life. But beyond the medals, it’s about proving that Indian athletes can compete in winter sports at the highest level. I hope my journey inspires more youngsters, especially girls, to explore lesser-known sports and believe that nothing is impossible.
SOM: How have your parents supported you throughout your journey?
Bhavani: My parents have been my biggest strength. Even though they didn’t fully understand the sport initially, they always believed in me and supported my dreams. Their encouragement gave me the courage to pursue such an unconventional path. Every achievement of mine belongs to them as much as it does to me.
SOM: Now that you have reached the international stage, what is your next goal?
Bhavani: My primary focus is the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. I want to qualify and represent India with strong performances on the world stage. At the same time, I hope to raise awareness about winter sports and help build better infrastructure in India, so the next generation has opportunities I didn’t have.
SOM: What advice would you give to youngsters wanting to take up cross-country skiing?
Bhavani: I would say, just start. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or ideal facilities. Passion and perseverance can take you a long way. Cross-country skiing challenges you physically and mentally, but it also teaches resilience, patience, and self-belief. If I could do it, coming from a small town in South India, anyone can.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home > Feature Articles / October 19th, 2025
Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, a former International Badminton player, has won Men’s Singles title, Mixed Doubles Trophy and emerged Runners-up in Men’s Doubles Category at the PAN India Golden Master’s Badminton Championships held at Vardhan’s Vision Sports Club in R.R. Nagar Bengaluru recently.
Along with trophies, cash prize was also awarded.
A native of Nelji, Napoklu in Kodagu, Arun is presently based in Bengaluru and is involved in coaching budding Badminton players.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / August 25th, 2025
The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions.
The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions. (Shutterstock)
Bengaluru:
Coffee prices in Karnataka’s Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru markets that recently surged to historic levels was driven by a global supply crunch, according to officials familiar with the matter. Arabica Parchment, a premium coffee variety, soared to ₹29,600 per 50 kg bag in Chikkamagaluru, while Kodagu recorded an even higher price of ₹29,800, marking an unprecedented peak.
The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions. Experts predicted that recovery will take at least five to eight years, as new coffee plants require time to mature and yield produce.
“Coffee prices are heavily influenced by weather conditions, and it’s impossible to assume that current prices will remain steady,” Coffee Board president Dinesh Devavrinda told HT. He advised growers, particularly those with outstanding bank loans, to capitalise on the price surge by opting for the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, which covers the principal amount up to ₹5 lakh.
India produces approximately 365,000 tonnes of coffee annually, with 70% of the yield exported to European markets. Karnataka is the country’s largest coffee producer, accounting for 70% of national output, with Kodagu alone contributing 32%. The state has 246,000 hectares of coffee estates, yielding 220,000 tonnes annually, while Kodagu, spanning 4,102 square kilometers, produces around 120,000 tonnes from 110,000 hectares of estates.
At the beginning of the year, coffee prices were volatile, but a steep upward trend emerged over the past 10 days, with daily price hikes ranging between ₹500 and ₹1,000 per bag. On January 1, Arabica Parchment was priced at ₹17,000 per 50 kg bag but by the end of the month, it rose to ₹23,500. Other coffee varieties also saw significant increases: Robusta Parchment reached ₹24,500, Arabica Cherry was sold at ₹17,000, and Robusta Cherry hit ₹13,500 in Kodagu markets.
According to market analysts, the absence of buffer stock this year has further aggravated the supply shortage, pushing prices to record highs.
Rajiv Kushalappa, managing director of Leonflix Fintech Ventures Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based coffee export firm, pointed to the impact of global shortages. “Thousands of coffee estates have been destroyed in Brazil and Vietnam, leading to a severe supply crunch in the international market. With no buffer stock available this year, prices have skyrocketed and are likely to remain high for some time,” he said.
For coffee growers, the soaring prices offer much-needed financial relief. “This is the first time I am getting such record prices. Growers have long struggled with high production costs, disease outbreaks, and labour shortages. Arabica coffee estates require significant manpower, and labor costs have risen due to shortages. These higher prices will help growers maintain their estates,” Sannuvanda Kaverappa, a grower from Napoklu in Madikeri, said.
Kodagu, nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, is India’s largest coffee-producing region, contributing nearly 32% of the country’s total output. The district, spanning 4,102 square kilometers, is home to vast coffee estates spread across 1.1 lakh hectares. Known for its rich biodiversity and hilly terrain, Kodagu primarily cultivates Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties. Coffee farming, introduced by British planters in the 19th century, remains the backbone of the local economy, with thousands of small and large growers dependent on it. The region’s coffee is highly sought after in international markets, with 70% of India’s coffee production being exported.
source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home / by Coovercolly Indresh / February 18th, 2025
Now, travelling to holy places Talacauvery andBhagamandala 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
Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as parliament member for Liverpool.
Madikeri :
At a time when people of Indian origin are making a mark — right from the corporate head honchos to politicians — a young woman with roots in Kodagu has been elected to the Australian parliament. Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as the Labor member of Parliament for Liverpool.
Charishma was dressed in traditional Kodava attire while taking oath of office, drawing praise. “So excited to officially be sworn in as part of the 58th Parliament with some amazing colleagues. I’m honoured to represent my amazing community of Liverpool, and can’t wait to raise our challenges and celebrate our wins in this Parliament! The colours I wear today represent the official colours of NSW and I wear a Mysore silk sari, made in Karnataka (where I was born). I wear my sari in the Kodava style to honour my family heritage. Can you spot the Waratah brooch?! ????”, she posted on Facebook.
Charishma traces her roots to Napoklu in Madikeri taluk.
On her Linkedin profile, she has has described herself thus: “As a registered occupational therapist and elected representative, I am passionate about working with individuals and communities to fulfil their potential and engage in the activities they want. I have over 10 years of experience working with young people, particularly in the university sector. Currently, I work closely with students and staff to build capacity in mental health and wellbeing at UNSW, in order to help deliver their Mental Health Strategy 2025. I build relationships with various internal and external stakeholders to facilitate access to and awareness of help for students experiencing distress at UNSW”.
source: http://www.english.publictv.in / Public TV (English) / Home> Karnataka> Latest> Main Post> States / by admin / May 11th, 2023
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
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district won three golds in the Khelo India Winter Games on February 25, 2024. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda, from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, glides over snow slopes the way fish take to water. The athlete, born in a village only 900 m above sea level, won three golds by competing on the snow slopes at an altitude of 4,000 m in the Khelo India Winter Games here on Sunday.
The lean girl from the plains near the Cauvery in Karnataka has sparkled in the winter games with her stunning ski skills. She won gold by topping the 10-km Nordic ski competition, 1.6-km sprint and 5-km sprint.
“It’s all about pursuing your passion. A girl from Karnataka winning winter sports in Kashmir is enough to talk about my passion. We have no snow in Karnataka. I have to work harder than those who compete from the Himalayan States,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
Passionate about mountains, Ms. Nanjunda was formally introduced to mountains when she summited Mt. Rudegera in Uttarakhand as a National Cadet Corps member in 2014. One year later in 2015, she worked through the freezing winter months for a basic course at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling, and managed to summit Renok peak.
Bhavani Thekkada Nanjunda from Napoklu village in Karnataka’s Kodagu district won three golds in the Khelo India Winter Games on February 25, 2024. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
“I work on my endurance at home by running every day. My physical activities puzzle my neighbours and friends at times. It does not stop me,” she said.
Ms. Nanjunda awaits the whole year for the winter months to visit Kashmir and hit the ski slopes. “Skiing makes me feel happy. Gulmarg is the best ski destination. I keep waiting for winter months to be here, as the place has the best slopes,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
International instructor certificate
She became a student of the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam, Kashmir, in 2019 and received an international instructor certificate in skiing in 2019. In 2020, she became a ski instructor with JIM&WS.
“Principal and the instructor at JIM&WS encouraged me to participate as a cross-country skier. I have participated in all the four editions of the Khelo India Winter games. I am happy that Karnataka has emerged as the number two State in the games this year,” Ms. Nanjunda said.
She is now preparing for the Asian Championship and Olympics. “I desire to represent India in the Olympics in 2026. India has never qualified for cross-country skiing,” she added.
The winter games in Kashmir are proving to be the platform for women, even from non-snow States of the country, to dream big in these sports. From mere four girls participating in the first edition of the winter games in Gulmarg, the number has risen to 20 this year.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India / by Peerzada Ashiq / February 25th, 2024
The application had been kept pending for three years instead of seven days as specified by law, he stated in the plea.
High court of Karnataka.(Photo | Nagaraja Gadekal, EPS)
Bengaluru :
The Karnataka High Court directed the Kodagu deputy commissioner to consider the application filed by K Sajan Aiyappa, a well-known shooter, seeking grant for four more arms and 25,000 ammunition to practice his sport. It also ordered the DC to pass appropriate orders as per law.
Aiyappa (54), a resident of Kolkeri village in Napoklu, had filed the plea at the high court against the act of the DC, who kept his application dated September 21, 2020. The application had been kept pending for three years instead of seven days as specified by law, he stated in the plea.
On December 28, 2022, the DC issued a notice to Aiyappa, stating that he has not divulged the minimum qualifying marks to be a renowned shooter and it should be submitted within 15 days. The petitioner’s counsel submitted that Aiyappa, being a renowned shooter, is entitled to possess 10 Arms as per the Arms Act, 1959 and Rules framed there under. He now has three arms, and had applied for four additional arms. The DC and SP are dodging the issue on one pretext or the other, he alleged.
“The DC or the Competent Authority is required to dispose of an application made by any holder of Arms licence to add or delete Arms in terms of schedule 5 of Rule 40, within an outer limit of seven days. Contrary to it, the DC has held on to the application for three long years, which is blatantly contrary to the statute,” said Justice M Nagaprasannam, quashing the final notice dated December 28, 2022 issued by the DC.
The petitioner claimed that he has participated in shooting events at national and state level and he is a life member of the National Rifle Association of India.
He argued that he would come within the definition of a ‘Renowned Shooter’ in terms of the Arms Rules, 2016. The government advocate contended that the petitioner can possess only two arms.
The court said the petitioner is well within the statutory claim made for possession of four more arms, the court added.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Bengaluru / by Express News Service / January 30th, 2024
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