Tag Archives: Virajpet

Who Is Madan Mandanna? Meet the Supportive Father of Rashmika Mandanna

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Madan Mandanna, father of Rashmika Mandanna, has stayed away from the spotlight but has always supported her. Here’s everything you need to know about her father and the role he played in her journey.

Image Credit : Instagram

A Pillar of Support

Madan Mandanna, father of actress Rashmika Mandanna, has mostly stayed away from the public eye, but he has been a strong support for his daughter throughout her journey. Born in a Kodava Hindu family in Virajpet, Kodagu, Karnataka, he played a key role in shaping Rashmika’s values and career.

Image Credit : Instagram

Entrepreneurial Roots

Madan is a successful businessman who runs a coffee estate and owns a function hall called Serenity in Virajpet. His work shows the family’s entrepreneurial spirit, long before Rashmika became a household name in films.

image credit : X

Family First

Though he avoids the limelight, Rashmika often credits her father for teaching her important life lessons like hard work, humility, and determination. These values have helped her navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry successfully.

image credit : Instagram

Close-Knit Family

Madan is married to Suman Mandanna, a homemaker. Together, they raised Rashmika and her much younger sister, Shiman Mandanna. Rashmika occasionally shares glimpses of her parents on social media, showing the love and close bond in their family.

From Humble Beginnings to Stardom

Despite her fame as a pan-India actress, Rashmika often reflects on her modest upbringing. Her family faced financial struggles, but Madan’s guidance and support were crucial in helping her rise from Virajpet to becoming one of India’s most popular and loved stars.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet News / Home> English> Entertainment / by Nancy Tiwari / March 05th, 2026

Karnataka MP writes to Centre seeking fund allocation for Cauvery conservation

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The MP highlighted the immediate need to prevent pollution to the river and sought fund allocation in the union budget for conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

Cauvery River image used for representation purposes only.(File Photo | Express

Madikeri :

Mysuru–Kodagu MP Yaduveer Wadiyar has written to the Union Minister of Jal Shakti seeking central government support for the conservation of the River Cauvery in Kodagu.

The MP highlighted the immediate need to prevent pollution to the river and sought fund allocation in the union budget for Cauvery river conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

The letter stressed on the immediate need for conservation and development of the riverbanks of Cauvery across the district. The MP also pointed out that the river has become a victim of increased pollution due to the flow of untreated wastewater from houses and commercial setups and from encroachments alongside the riverbanks.

“These issues are affecting water quality, public health, river ecology and the livelihoods of people dependent on the river,” the MP noted.

He urged the union minister to order a comprehensive survey of the boundaries of the River Cauvery in the district to enable eviction of the encroachments, followed by rehabilitation and systematic riverbank development in a planned manner.

The MP also highlighted the need to regulate activities along riverbanks in Madikeri, Virajpet and Kushalnagar taluks while also requesting the establishment of scientific sanitation and drainage facilities.

Wadiyar also sought a focused intervention to regulate tourist activities along the riverbanks and address recurring flood issues. He urged the need for eco-friendly riverfront development.

Mentioning the interstate importance of the River Cauvery, he urged the minister to formulate a central government-supported phased action plan for conservation and development of the Cauvery.

He has requested funds in the forthcoming budget for Cauvery river conservation, sanitation, waste management and riverbank protection works.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / January 09th, 2026

Rashmika Mandanna Becomes Kodagu’s No.1 Taxpayer; Find Out What She Paid

Artists of Kodagu (wef. January 21st, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rashmika Mandanna has added another remarkable achievement to her name by emerging as the highest taxpayer in Kodagu district, creating pride among locals and fans while proving her success goes far beyond the film industry.

From Kirik Party to National Stardom

Rashmika Mandanna, fondly called the “National Crush,” has come a long way since her breakthrough in the Kannada film Kirik Party. Today, she stands tall as one of India’s most successful actresses, making a strong impact in South cinema and Bollywood with consistent box office successes.

The Rise of a Box Office Queen

With multiple hit films across languages, Rashmika has earned the title of “Box Office Queen.” Her strong screen presence, versatility, and audience connect have made most of her films commercially successful, placing her among the most bankable stars in the Indian film industry today.

Pride of Kodagu District

Hailing from Virajpet in Kodagu district, Rashmika has become a source of immense pride for her hometown. Kodagu has produced several notable personalities, but Rashmika’s achievements have set her apart, elevating her status beyond cinema and making her a standout figure from the region.

Biggest Taxpayer in Kodagu

In a remarkable achievement, Rashmika Mandanna has emerged as the highest income taxpayer in Kodagu district. She has reportedly paid ₹4.69 crore in income tax for three quarters of the current financial year, securing the top position among all taxpayers in the district.

Marriage Buzz Continues

Apart from professional milestones, Rashmika is also in the news for personal reasons. Reports suggest she may soon marry actor Vijay Deverakonda, with rumors pointing to a February 26 wedding in Udaipur. However, no official confirmation has been made by either star yet.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet News, English / Home> Entertainment / by Nancy Tiwari / January 07th, 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

Karnataka coffee growers welcome Modi’s praise, seek action on long-pending challenges

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In his monthly radio broadcast, Modi lauded the distinctive character and diversity of Indian coffee, saying it has carved a ‘unique identity’ on the world stage.

For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. | Photo Credit: For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention.

Planters in Karnataka have welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for the global recognition earned by coffee from the State’s key producing regions Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on Sunday. However, growers have urged the government to take concrete steps to address persistent challenges affecting the sector.

Coffee Board of India chairman M.J. Dinesh thanked the Prime Minister for recognising the efforts of lakhs of growers and said the acknowledgment would inspire renewed enthusiasm in the sector. “The Prime Minister’s words will encourage planters, traders, and exporters alike. It comes at a time when the board has undertaken several initiatives to boost both productivity and domestic consumption,” he said.

For many growers in Kodagu, the Prime Minister’s mention has brought a sense of pride but also renewed hope for government intervention. “It is heartening that the Prime Minister has spoken about coffee from Kodagu, which produces the largest share of India’s coffee. His words reaffirm the importance of our work,” said coffee planter Ravi Chengappa from Virajpet in Kodagu.

However, Mr. Chengappa noted that the sector continues to face serious difficulties. “Coffee growers are struggling with rising input costs, labour shortages, damage caused by erratic rainfall, and wild animal attacks. Fluctuating international prices and a lack of adequate crop insurance have also left many growers financially vulnerable,” he said.

Another farmer Dinesh H. from Chikkamagaluru urged both the Central and the State governments to take immediate steps to protect the livelihood of coffee farmers. “We hope the Prime Minister’s appreciation will translate into stronger policy support. The government must address these long-standing issues from better price realisation to support for sustainable cultivation so that the next generation of planters can continue this legacy,” he added.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by Darshan Devaiah B P / October 27th, 2025

CNC Conducts 16th Human Chain in Ammathi

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Madikeri: 

The Codava National Council (CNC) held its 16th human chain awareness campaign in Ammathi of Virajpet taluk on Tuesday, October 21, rallying for the indigenous Codava community’s constitutional recognition and territorial sovereignty.

Under the leadership of Chairman N.U. Nachappa Codava, an advocate, the event spotlighted demands for Codavaland’s political autonomy, Scheduled Tribe (ST) designation, reserved seats in Parliament and State Assembly similar to Sikkim’s “Sangha” model, and enduring rights to ancestral properties and the Animistic “thok-gun” firearm tradition integral to Codava ceremonies.

Nachappa stressed that Codava survival hinges on securing a distinct ethnic identity in the 2026-27 national census through a dedicated column and code, enabling constitutional protections for their mono-ethnic, Animistic faith, which venerates the Cauvery River, forest deities, and ancestral graves without mainstream religious or caste affiliations.

Unlike conventional practices, Codava weddings feature a sacred “patthak” tied by the bride’s mother and obligatory offerings of alcohol and pork, aligning with global indigenous groups like Jharkhand’s Santal (proclaimed Sarna by CM Hemant Soren) or the Kalash, protected by UNESCO’s heritage framework.

From 1871 to 1931, colonial censuses acknowledged Codavas as a unique non-religious, non-caste entity, a status lost post-1947 as they were merged into dominant categories, obliterating their distinctiveness. Nachappa warned that without census reinstatement, their political and cultural voice risks permanent suppression, undermining self-determination.

The CNC voiced concerns over alleged plots to integrate Bangladeshi Rohingyas into Kodagu’s voter rolls, inflating demographics for political gain, and criticised unauthorised land conversions for resorts, such as a 16-acre township within a 2,400-acre estate, enabled by lax governance.

To address labour needs without compromising local rights, Nachappa suggested a guest worker permit system, modelled on the 2015 Modi-Sheikh Hasina Dhaka agreement, mandating seasonal migrants’ return to their regions.

The peaceful chain, joined by Codava leaders like Udianda Chondamma, Badumanda Sanvi Dechamma, and Inanda Prakash Ganapathy, vowed to continue the struggle in the name of sacred Codava symbols and the Constitution, closing with the National Anthem.

The 17th chain is scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025, in Srimangala, building on events in places like Madapur and Chettalli to amplify Codava advocacy for justice and recognition.

source: http://www.hansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka / by The Hans India / October 21st, 2025

Rajya Sabha member Ajay Maken to contribute funds from his grants for Sports Training Residential Hostel in Kodagu

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Rajya Sabha member Ajay Maken and MLA for Virajpet A.S. Ponnanna, who is also Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, looking at a map during an inspection of a site reserved for a sports facility in Kodagu on Monday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Rajya Sabha member Ajay Maken has assured to provide funds from his grants for the construction of a Sports Training Residential Hostel in Kodagu.

Mr. Maken, along with the Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor and MLA for Virajpet A.S. Ponnanna, inspected a site reserved for a high-level sports facility at V. Badaga village in Virajpet in Kodagu district on Monday.

During the inspection, Mr. Ponnanna explained to the Rajya Sabha member that the residential hostel in Kodagu will attract athletes, especially those from Kodagu.

Mr. Maken, during the inspection of the 11.2 acres of land reserved for the sports facility, assured that maximum possible funds from his grants will be allocated to the hostel.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Ponnanna recalled that he had submitted a request to the MP earlier and the latter had fondly remembered Kodagu’s proud contributions to sports and armed forces, while assuring full support by providing grants to the best of his ability.

A statement said that preparatory work for the construction of the Sports Training Residential Hostel has already been under way. An official programme in the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Sports Minister and Mr. Maken will be held likely in November this year and the date for the same will be finalised later.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / September 15th, 2025

St Philomena College NCC Cadet Selected to Join Indian Air Force as Medical Assistant

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Puttur :

Manjunath T. V., a second-year B.Sc. student of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, has been selected to serve in the Indian Air Force as a Medical Assistant. He is set to report at the Military Training Centre in Bengaluru on July 1, 2025, thus realizing a long-cherished dream of joining the armed forces.

A native of Kodagu district, Manjunath is the proud son of educators Mr Venkatesh T. J. and Mrs Radhamani G. R., from the Virajpet taluk.

Since 2013, he has actively participated in several selection processes across various branches of the Indian Armed Forces. His relentless perseverance has finally borne fruit with his selection into the prestigious Indian Air Force. In honour of this remarkable achievement, the college organised a formal felicitation ceremony.

Presiding over the event, the Principal of St Philomena College, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, hailed the commitment of soldiers as comparable to that of monks who renounce worldly ties. “A soldier is one who is willing to sacrifice even his life for the nation, forsaking personal comfort and family for the greater cause of national service. Such dedication requires not only divine grace but also the blessings of parents,” he said, presenting a floral bouquet to the proud parents of Cadet Manjunath and extending his heartfelt congratulations.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Principal Dr Vijay Kumar Moleyar emphasized the significance of Manjunath’s accomplishment in the current scenario, where fewer young men and women are opting to join the armed forces due to perceived hardships, modest remuneration, and lack of parental encouragement. “Despite facing multiple setbacks in previous recruitment processes, Cadet Manjunath remained undeterred and committed. His success today brings pride to the college, his hometown, and especially to his parents,” Dr Vijay Kumar noted.

Dr Vinaychandra, Controller of Examinations, Dr Edwin D’Souza, Finance Officer, Mr Vipin Naik, Academic Assistant Registrar, Mr Abhishek Suvarna, Assistant Controller of Examinations and Dr Malini K, IQAC Coordinator, Faculty members, administrative staff, and students were also present in large numbers to witness the occasion.

Captain Johnson David Sequeira, the college NCC Officer, compered the felicitation ceremony and lauded Cadet Manjunath’s journey as an inspiring example for youth aspiring to serve the nation through the defence services.

The entire St Philomena College community joins in wishing Cadet Manjunath T. V. great success in his military career and salutes his dedication to the nation.

source: http://www.catholictime.com / Catholic Time / Home> Association – Institutions News / by Media Release / June 30th, 2025

Kodagu Student Muskan Sufi’s Debut Poetry Book Nominated for International Award

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pix: kannada.hindustangazette.com

Mysuru/Chandigarh:

“This Too Shall Pass,” a debut poetry collection by Muskan Sufi, a young Kodagu student studying in Mysuru, has earned international recognition after being nominated for the prestigious Indie Authors Award 2025, held in memory of American poet Emily Dickinson. The book is now available for purchase online on Amazon.

Muskan Sufi, a student of English Literature and Psychology at St. Philomena’s College, Mysuru, hails from Virajpet in Kodagu and belongs to the Kodava Muslim community. Her literary achievement has drawn attention not only for its quality but also for the quiet determination that brought her recognition at a young age.

Published by the internationally acclaimed Bookleaf Publication, This Too Shall Pass was born out of Muskan’s participation in the publisher’s “21 Poems in 21 Days” challenge. She surpassed expectations by writing more than 28 poems, which resulted in a 50-page collection of emotionally rich, thought-provoking verse.

Her poems explore themes of pain, healing, nature, death, and the complexities of human emotion. With modern and socially conscious subjects, Muskan’s writing brings to life the inner turbulence of individuals and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments. She uses simple yet powerful language, aiming to connect souls and provide hope to those facing life’s darkest times.

Thousands of poets participate in Bookleaf’s global poetry initiatives, and the top entries are selected for book publication and nomination to the Indie Authors Award. Muskan’s nomination has created a ripple in the English literary community, marking a proud moment for the Kodava Muslim community.

Expressing her joy, Muskan said, “I joined the challenge after coming across the campaign on social media. I’ve always loved writing English poetry, but I never imagined my poems would be published or nominated for such a prestigious award. It’s given me great motivation to pursue more literary work.”

Muskan is the daughter of Duddiyanda H. Sufi and Masuda Sufi, who head the DHS Group of Companies in Virajpet. Her father also serves as the president of the Kodava Muslim Association (KMA).

Muskan’s poetry book, This Too Shall Pass, is now available for purchase on Amazon.

source: http://www.hindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Latest News / by The Hindustan Gazette / pix:kannada.hindustangazette.com / July 21st, 2025

NGO integrates AI-based siren system to warn Kodagu villagers of elephant movement

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Using this app, people can update the last location where they spotted a wild elephant, and through an AI-based system, the movement of the elephant will be traced.

The siren system is being installed across 12 conflict zones in Virajpet limits. (Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

A new initiative to prevent untoward incidents related to wildlife movement is being undertaken on a trial basis in Kodagu. Funded by a private company, the early warning system has been installed by Support for Network and Extension Help Agency (SNEHA), an NGO.

An early warning system in the form of a siren to alert residents about wildlife movement within a one-kilometre radius has been installed by SNEHA on a trial basis in wildlife conflict regions across Virajpet in Kodagu.

The NGO is currently in the process of installing 12 such sirens across the conflict zones of Badaga Banangala and surrounding areas. While the initiative is currently at a trial stage, SNEHA plans to expand it further by introducing automated alert systems.

“This initiative is being carried out by SNEHA in Odisha and Kodagu regions. We are looking at developing the system further to ensure an automated alert system,” explained Ramaswamy Krishnan, the Executive Director of SNEHA.

He said the NGO has developed a mobile application called SNEHA Kalpvaig Elephant Tracker, which is being uploaded online to become accessible to all.

Using this app, people can update the last location where they spotted a wild elephant, and through an AI-based system, the movement of the elephant will be traced.

Further, based on the location of the elephant, a siren will be triggered to alert residents within a one-kilometre radius.

“The users who have this application can learn about the movement of the elephant, and this application is linked with the siren system. We have also placed about four camera traps in conflict zones, and these cameras are being monitored by the staff at the office to activate the siren manually,” he explained.

The cameras click pictures every minute, and these photographs are reviewed by the appointed staff, who can activate the siren if an elephant is detected within the designated area.

“We want to make this an automated system, and we are devising plans where the cameras can automatically detect wildlife movement,” he confirmed. When the sirens are activated, a voice alert message is also sent through the mobile application simultaneously.

The alert system is currently being implemented in Kodagu on a trial basis, with the NGO having formed a tracking team to monitor wildlife movements.

A total of 12 sirens have been installed across conflict zones in the Virajpet limits. The initiative is being funded by Sucden Coffee Pvt Ltd and is being implemented in collaboration with the Forest Department.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Prajna GR / May 30th, 2025