Mamatha Subbaiah, CLN’s loyal and proficient stalwart contributor has written a heartfelt account about being an Army Veteran’s proud daughter and the sacrifices and valour that her father endured as a brave soldier of the Armed Forces. There was a time when almost every Okka and for that matter every family had one member in the Armed Forces. As earlier mentioned, it is remarkable that for a community of our size, we have a disproportionate representation in the Armed Forces – more than any other community in the country. We Kodavas are proud of the selfless service rendered and look forward to stories, anecdotes and snippets from all families. We would be honoured and privileged to showcase these stories! – CLN Newsdesk
Many kudos on bringing out the ultimate sacrifice, a legacy of courage, love and duty of the retired solder from Kodagu. Kodavas have a large population of “serving” and “ex- servicemen”, who have served the nation with honour and courage – deserving our respect and appreciation for their sacrifices. They deservedly enjoy the pride and privilege of being honourable ex-servicemen of this great country. These Heroes make a significant impact but for some unknown reason go largely unnoticed, with their efforts sometimes taken for granted.
They are many retired solders who served the nation in lesser known capacities but their efforts are essential and make a significant impact. They are a diverse and proud group of people who have served the nation in various capacities and roles.
I am the proud daughter of Palachanda Uthappa, the soldier who took part in the Indo-China war of 1962, which was a significant conflict in which my father had a challenging experience. To my father’s knowledge, the only other Kodava soldier who fought this was Bayavanda Subbaiah, who unfortunately lost his life. My father served in the army from 1954 to 1970.
The Army was not as well equipped as we are now. During the 1962 war, soldiers had limited access to basic necessities like food and shelter, relatively poor infrastructure, remote areas with inadequate roads and communication networks, harsh weather, limited food and medical supplies. Despite these challenges, the soldiers showed remarkable resilience and bravery.
In those times soldiering was not a meal ticket. It was a calling and an act of devotion beyond anything. My father’s story is not just his alone. They are many such Heroes from Kodagu who demonstrated extraordinary courage for their country and upheld values larger than themselves and gave their all, so that we could live in peace and freedom.
Being a daughter of an Indian Army soldier can be a fulfilling experience filled with pride and valuable lessons. They serve as role models, demonstrating values such as discipline, courage and commitment. I truly wish many soldier’s stories of valour, and a message of resilience, sacrifice and undying love for the nation should be brought out which inspires future generations to stand tall, no matter the odds. Their sacrifice serves as a beacon of valour, reminding us that Heroes don’t seek comfort – they seek honour in protecting their land.
In a previous article of mine I had the privilege of writing about the soul-stirring, identity defining disciplined Kodavamme Balo Nadp. Many Armed Forces personnel took place in the march and it is a testament to our community that the District Administration heaped paeans of praise for the orderly conduct of the procession without a single mishap. Perhaps involving ex-servicemen in positions of responsibility serving the Kodava community would be welcomed given their secular, honest and inclusive experience, which is precisely how they served in the Armed Forces.
Once again, the initiative in bringing out such stories of the soldiers in Kodagu was much needed . They are many such soldiers in Kodagu who need to be recognized and appreciated.
Very well written article.
To the best of my knowledge, no other community has as many people in proportion from within their fold, who have served the Armed Forces as the Kodavas have done, from within the country. Maybe the Sikhs from Punjab and the people from the Garhwal And Kumaon in Uttarakhand.
In Kodagu, more often than not, the retired ex-service men live a discreet life after retirement. We get to see them mostly at weddings and on occasion at functions related to Armed Forces. Maybe their tough and challenging profession in the Forces makes them look for peace and quiet.
However the discipline, depth and values they develop over the years in the Armed Forces makes them tough and unlike civilians who complain about everything and are never content, the soldier is very accommodating.
The Community will benefit enormously if these outstanding individuals participate in all events – especially as Office Bearers in Temple Committees, Panchayats, Government sponsored programs or any community building exercise for Kodavas. They will bring on board a sense of purpose, quality and inclusive and secular attitude in an apolitical manner.
An organisation like Akhila Kodava Samaja would welcome their contribution and participation in large numbers – the membership is free for every Kodava and ability to contribute is limitless.
Delighted to see the post – makes me proud. The Kodandera Okka is extremely fortunate to have two Chiefs of the Armed Forces, who have been written about extensively.
This article however focuses on the huge swell of soldiers from Kodagu who form the backbone of the Armed Forces. After all, to quote Cariappa Ajja – “An officer is nothing without the soldiers”.
Thank you for this most relevant and morale boosting article; a model for youngsters to follow 🙏🏼
Mamatha…thank you for sharing this. Our soldiers from Independence till 1990s served in extremely tough conditions with the barest minimum of facilities and comforts. I suppose what kept them going was their love for the country and the unstinted support of their families.
Proud to be a Army child like you.
Thank you for your encouraging words, General Muthanna. We are hoping that more officers of your standing will come forward and work with the community. Your involvement in KESST is a role model for armed forces personnel to engage for the betterment of the Kodava youth.
I’m sure the Kodava Community has evolved as Dependable, Discipline and Dedicated in all walks of Life, thanks to the generations of influence from the Okka members, who served in the Indian Defence forces.
Nice Article Mamatha.
This is a great initiative by CLN Online and the entire community should respond with their stories from individual Okkas. The Kodavas who served and are serving in the Armed Forces bring distinction and pride to the community. We salute you 🫡
Yes I agree fully with Mamatha. Kodagu district though very small has the single largest representation in the FORCES OF THE COUNTRY and as Mamatha rightly pointed out we should write and chronicle such stories firstly to recognise the valour and bravery of our ancestors and secondly to motivate younger generations to join the forces. Great job as always Mamatha
Very nicely articulated! Yes it was difficult fighting during those times and years……
Kudos to the brave soldier and all the very best to his family members.