Today is Army Day. Every year, 15 January is commemorated as ‘Army Day’ to remember the occasion when General (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa took over the command of the Indian Army from General Sir FRR Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief in 1949 and became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of Independent India.
Field Marshal Cariappa is known for his exceptional secular and leadership qualities. Soon after taking command, he did away with the British “Martial Race” concept of recruitment in the Armed Forces and opened it up for all Indian nationals.
“A Soldier is above politics and should not believe in caste or creed”, he said.
Kodagu is known as the land of Generals and Soldiers. In the not too distant past, every Kodava family had at least one person serving in the Armed Forces or retired from the service. The Armed Forces has been a part and parcel of Kodava Culture. Many retired servicemen reside in Kodagu and also those who have been martyred in battles are remembered with pride. Many statues have been erected in their honor – and there are others who have died unsung and unheard.
CLN contacted the Office of the General Thimmaiah Memorial Museum in Madikeri to enquire about Army Day functions across Kodagu. It is rather unfortunate that other than the ex-servicemen’s union/office, there were no significant events planned/organized by the people nor the District Administration. Kodava Armed Forces members have been the utmost pride and distinction of the community. In addition to two Chiefs’ of Army Staff this small community has provided 25 Lieutenant and Major Generals and equivalent of number of Brigadiers, 4 Air Marshals, 1 Rear Admiral, hundreds of other Officers and thousands of Soldiers. Besides Field Marshal Cariappa and General Thimayya, a few senior officers like General C N Somanna and B C Nanda have proactively involved themselves in community matters for the long term welfare and good of Kodagu. This tradition should continue. It is therefore only appropriate that this important occasion be commemorated and celebrated with due respect and honor.
The hallmark of the Armed Forces has been the secular camaraderie and discipline that is instilled in all Armed Forces personnel at every level. It is most common to see a Temple, Church, Mosque and Gurudwara side by side on most campuses and everyone wholeheartedly participates in every celebration. A parallel in Kodagu was the unique inclusive leadership that Kodavas provided from time immemorial to forge a community spirit on the principles of Kodavaame where almost everyone spoke a common language (Kodava Thakk), wore similar dress (Kupya/Saree with Vastra), ate similar cuisine and celebrated/danced at festivals together. Even to this day it is quite common to see members of most communities sporting a Kupya and dancing at Temple festivals together, with the Deva Thakkas from all communities.
It is surprising to see the conspicuous absence of Armed Forces personnel participating as Thakkas or Mentors or heading Community Organizations, as they are ideally suited and trained to quash the misdemeanors of vested and unwanted elements from creating communal disharmony. The recent fracas at a Temple that caused widespread tensions may have been avoided with the timely involvement of retired Army Personnel.
Talking to retired Armed Forces personnel, they reminded us that in overseas countries members of the Armed Forces are treated with utmost respect in every sphere of civilian life. These officers and soldiers would have loved to see the community celebrating the Army Day at all levels within the District, from the Panchayat to Community Organizations like the Kodava Samajas, Educational Institutions and last but not the least – the District Administration. They were quick to add that this won’t happen unless our political class initiates it. It was sad to hear their lament that they will quietly have a drink at home.
It is time the community stood up and recognized the contribution and valor of the Armed Forces on this auspicious Army Day.
Very well written, shows the apathy of current state of affairs in once called THE LAND OF WARRIORS,
From early morning I’m getting What’s app forwards from various groups out of Kodagu wishing Indian Army Day, pity none of the groups/ Media in our own Kodagu has mentioned about Indian Army Day,
On 10th September ‘ 2024 I was in Demchok ( China India border) biking, happened to meet a Brigadier from Armoured, security reasons they enquire civilian travelling to Demchok, I mentioned I’m from Kodagu , He called his Captains and introduced ” He is from land of Field Mashal Cariappa”, It was a great pride ,
Wish our district administration will look into this important day in future…
Very well said ….The people of Kodagu have long stood as pillars of bravery and dedication in the Indian Army. Their contributions, from the fierce Coorg Regiment to countless other soldiers, have been vital in protecting our nation. These warriors have shown unwavering commitment, often making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their courage and sacrifice embody the spirit of selflessness and patriotism. Kodagu’s legacy of service continues to inspire future generations.
Kodagu as it’s evident is known for its unique culture and harmony, famous sports personalities and contribution to armed forces, especially from kodavas which is a micro miniscule community when compared with the mammoth population of India.
It’s a pain where “army day” passed without much of a celebration or fervour that too in kodagu.
Coming to the recent incident in a temple in kattemaad village, the author’s observation to deploy the retired army men into the Temple committee is the need of thr hour.
As the army men are trained to uphold the secular values if the country and i also feel such incidents wouldn’t ave taken place if the committee consisted of one or two retired men from any rank for that matter.
Such temple committees be it a voluntary body or from the government should make ammendments to include at least one or two reserved seats in the board, which will avoid groupism within the communities and help in protecting the thin fabric of social structure