The United Kodava Organisation (UKO) organised a programme titled ‘Neppra Nalat Manjata Mott’ (Unforgettable Step in the Courtyard of Memory) to commemorate historic events and pay tribute to freedom fighters.Held at the fort premises in Madikeri, the programme carried the theme ‘Independence and Kodagu – A Fusion of History, Music and Patriotism’.
A portrait exhibition was organised to honour those who fought for the nation’s freedom.Portraits of hundreds of freedom fighters from Kodagu who resisted British rule were displayed inside the fort. Rare photographs depicting significant incidents from Kodagu during the freedom struggle were also exhibited, drawing keen interest from the audience.
Tributes were paid to freedom fighters through speeches and songs. Homage was offered to martyrs including MallengadaChangappa, Matricada Belyappa and Chekkera Monnaiah, who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Students of General Thimmaiah School presented the historical background of Pannangalathamme Devara through a dance performance. Students of Kodagu Vidyalaya, along with Paleyada Divya and Maletira Ajith Poovanna, rendered patriotic songs.
Addressing the gathering, UKO convenor Kokkalemada Chinnappa said that creating false history and forgetting real history posed a serious threat to the nation’s identity. He noted that Kodagu too had witnessed continuous freedom struggles and expressed regret that such sacrifices are often overlooked.Personality development guide and international athlete Teetamada Arjun Devaiah said the Kodava community currently requires courageous, grassroots-based organisations that work issue-wise and have financial backing. He urged the community to focus on building such institutions.
Shakti Daily Editor G. Rajendra, Coorg Hotels and Resorts Association President Kundyola Dinesh Cariappa, Archaeological Department Officer Sunil, sons of freedom fighter Mallengada D. Changappa-Prakash and Girish, General Thimmaiah School Principal Baleada Savita, District BJP President Napanda Ravi Kalappa, former City Municipal Council President Neravanda Anita Poovaiah, and several Kodava community leaders and UKO members were present.
