The invigorating aroma of the coffee blossoms carried by chilled breeze, the midnight green ambience along the loopy roads…it is not just the abundant natural beauty that makes kodagu a distinct place. It’s people- the Kodavas – with discrete culture and heritage, boost the glory of this coffee land. Be it the language, cuisine, attire or rituals, Kodava culture moves away from the humdrum reckoning distinct ethnic identity. And safeguarding this ethnicity while preserving their way of life is the architectural legacy known as the Ain mane or Balyamane. It is said that the early settlers of kodagu stayed in forests as a family. Due to feudal fights, it was common for people with the same bloodline to stay together in a small thatched hut. These settlements grew in size and became stronger, which made the ruling king seek their support. In return the king allocated them land, which is the jamma land. As their living condition improved ,they built a strong fort- like structure on the jamma land which is now known as ” Ain mane ” or ” Balyamane “. Kodagu is deep-rooted in the culture of – the glorious past. The traditions, the ideals , and the institutions of the past are inherited by us as a rich legacy. We should be proud of our present, but we can hold our heads high when our past history, culture, traditions and ideals are taken into consideration. Ours is a land of warriors, poets and diverse tribes has a rich and vibrant history. Be it our dance or our architecture, every nook and corner, act as silent reminders into our colourful past. An architectural aspect which has stood the test of time, are our Ain manes. Home to the native communities of Kodagu these ain manes stand as the silent testimonies of our history . These ancestral homes of kodavas, reflect the distinct ethnic identity of the region, and act as a binding force. These were the abodes of our guru karanas and our ancestors. The knowledge, art , literature and culture passed down by our Ancestors adorn the wall of these beautiful houses. Sadly with the passage of time our culture has been ambushed by modernization. Today more than 60 percent of the okkas no longer have Ain manes. Currently conserving our rich heritage to let our future generations know who we truly are, is of surmount importance. Let us join hands, in conserving the little that remains of our ancestors and their impressions left on the phase of earth. Because Ain manes are a matter of pride and are the souls of Kodava rituals, and their revival provides a surety to Kodavas customs and legacy.
KODANDERA MAMATHA SUBBAIAH.
