Books are repositories of knowledge that shape culture and values, and developing a habit of reading is essential for preserving heritage and intellectual growth, said Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy President Ajjinikanda C. Mahesh Nachaiah. He was speaking after inaugurating the 11th edition of the Kodava Book Festival held at PalandiraMundumane in Balamberi, Kadiyathnadu.
Addressing the gathering, Nachaiah observed that while wealth may come and go, the knowledge gained through reading remains with a person throughout life. He remarked that whatever one reads, hears and learns is permanently etched in the mind, and the immense wisdom contained in books can never be erased. Such knowledge, he said, serves as a guide towards a cultured and meaningful life. Highlighting the rich heritage of the Kodava community, he noted that the unique traditions and culture of the Kodavas have contributed significantly to bringing recognition and honour not only to Kodagu but also to the nation as a whole. In an era dominated by digital devices, he urged people to set aside their mobile phones for at least half an hour every day and cultivate the habit of reading books. Continuing his address, he reflected on the contributions made by his parents and elders in the fields of society and culture, recalling their commitment to preserving traditions and values.
Inaugurating the book exhibition, Kanchana Ponnanna, wife of the Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, said that every aspect of Kodava culture-including traditional ornaments, festivals, customs, rituals and the renowned hockey festival-holds its own significance and cultural dignity. She stressed that members of the community should proudly uphold these traditions and pass them on to future generations in the same spirit and solemnity with which they were inherited from their elders.
State Sports Authority Vice-President Cheppudira Arun Machayya praised the Academy’s initiative of establishing book shelves in Ballyamane and Mundmane households. Such projects, he said, play an important role in promoting literature and cultural awareness within society and should be utilised by all families. District Guarantee Implementation Committee Chairman Teethira Dharmaja Uthappa stated that all communities that cherish the Kodava language and culture should work together with a sense of responsibility and unity to preserve Kodagu’s heritage and pass it on to future generations. He emphasized the need to strengthen socio-cultural commitment and collective responsibility towards safeguarding the region’s traditions. Speaking on the occasion, 96-year-old PalandiraSomanna shared historical insights into the origin of the Palandira family name. Drawing from family traditions and oral history, he explained that the name existed even before the waters of Mother Cauvery flowed through Balamberi. According to family lore, the name evolved from the divine utterance “Pal Endira,” associated with a joyful occasion involving the sharing of milk among family members who were fortunate to witness the Cauvery during that season. Over time, the expression gradually came to be identified with the family itself.
During the programme, PalandiraMonnappa, recognised for his expertise in Balopat, and Palandira Ravi Mandanna, a trainer in Bolakat, were honoured by the dignitaries for their contributions to preserving Kodava cultural traditions.
The Academy also distributed responsibilities among members of the Kotera families as part of its cultural initiatives.
Prior to the formal inauguration, Palandira Pragya Darshan offered prayers to Mother Cauvery. Members of the Bollachettira Vijaya Sangha of Balamberi village rendered selections from the Cauvery Purana through the traditional Balopat recital.
Palandira JagaJoyappa welcomed the gathering and introduced the programme. Academy member Napanda Ganesh proposed the vote of thanks.
Among those present were Academy members Kambeyanda Deena Bojanna and Ketolira Kuttappa Rajappa, members of various foster families, families residing abroad with roots in the region, villagers and members of the wider Kodava community who participated in large numbers, making the event a meaningful celebration of literature, culture and heritage.
