BENGALURU: The Kodava community, a martial race with distinct cultural traditions, will undertake a peace march from February 2 to 7 to highlight concerns over their dwindling presence and cultural erosion in Kodagu (Coorg). Organised by the Federation of Kodava Samajas, the 80-km march will commence in Kutta, bordering Kerala and conclude in Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu.
The community has raised alarm over cultural marginalisation, including incidents of denial of temple entry in traditional attire, and fears of socio-political neglect exacerbated by migration into Kodagu, particularly from Karnataka's neighboring states.
“Kodagu is not only known for its coffee but also for the Kodava community’s immense contributions to the armed forces and sports. Unfortunately, urban migration of young populace to cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru has made us vulnerable,” said Chemira Sanju Poonacha, a coffee planter who has been settled in Bengaluru.
''The Kodava population has dropped from 3 lakh five decades ago to approximately 1.25 lakh today. Factors such as migration for education and jobs, inter-caste marriages, and economic-driven voluntary birth control have reduced their numbers. Only 40% of Kodavas continue to reside in Kodagu, eroding their political clout,' explained Chandapanda Prajwal Poovanna, a realty professional citing his research.
Theethramada Satish Bopanna, a PSU professional, pointed out, “Wealthy individuals, including politicians from Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, are purchasing plantations from marginal growers to launder money. Later, they turn these properties into commercial ventures like wellness centers. resorts. This leads to Kodavas selling their ancestral properties and relocating, which also threatens our roots and Kodagu’s ecological balance,” he added.
Despite remarkable contributions, such as producing distinguished military leaders like Field Marshal K M Cariappa and General K S Thimayya, as well as sports icons including hockey player M P Ganesh, Cricketer Robin Uthappa, Badminton star Ashwini Ponappa and ace tennis player Rohan Bopanna, the Kodava community’s issues have remained largely unaddressed. “Neither the state nor central government responds to us because they see us as a small community that doesn’t impact their vote banks,” said cultural expert Poyyatira Raj Chengappa.
Advocate and SVG Kodava Sangha secretary Bayavanda Sharath Kushalapoa called for special status for the community to safeguard its unique identity. “This special status would prevent outsiders from purchasing land for commercial purposes, protect plantations, and conserve Kodagu’s distinct culture and ecology,” he added.
Codava National Council (CNC) chief N U Nachappa, a long-time advocate for Kodava rights, criticiwed the growing attacks on Kodava traditions, including restrictions on their attire and weaponry. “We need an inclusive environment where all communities coexist peacefully without fear or discrimination,” Nachappa asserted.
"The peace march represents a strong plea for the survival of the Kodava community and the preservation of Kodagu’s cultural and ecological heritage., said Koothanda Santosh, a bank officer urging community members yo join in big numbers “This march is our call for urgent action to ensure our community and traditions endure,” added Nalyanda Deepak, a Bengaluru-based entrepreneur.
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