Coorgies' day out at Male Namme

In fact, the unique native games organised by the Karnataka Kodava Sahithya Academy in the paddy field of Kalachanda G Karyappanda of Mukkodlu village reminded many aged persons the games they played when they were kids or young.

The ‘reality show’ titled ‘Male Namme’ (Rain festival) of typical Malnad lifestyle of the yesteryears not only brought to life the traditions of the region, but also enthralled hundreds of villagers who had gathered on the occasion.

Right from the farm activities to mouth watering delicious dishes, the picturesque surroundings witnessed some memorable moments.

Seperate games were arranged for men, women, boys and girls. While games like marshy field race, Shakthi Kol, tug-of-war, running race with legs tied were organised for men, treasure hunt, marshy field race, Shakthi Kol, tug-of-war, balancing pillows on head were organised for women. Similarly, for boys, apart from some regular games, they had a game of firing at coconuts.

The girls had long jump (in marshy field) and ‘threading the needle eye’ and dancing contest in the field.The unique mouth watering dishes, especially a variety of jackfruit delicacies, was liked by almost all the people present.

On the other hand, it was a rare opportunity for the Coorgies to showcase their lifestyle and specialities to others.

Earlier in the day, the villagers traditionally welcomed ZP President Shantheyanda Ravi Kushalappa, Kodava Sahithya Academy Chairperson Aimudiyenda Rani Machaiah, Registrar Vinodchandra, Makkandur Gram panchayat President P K Leelavathi, Taluk Akrama Sakrama Samithi President Napanda Ravi Kalappa, Gram Panchayat Member Chennapanda G Thimmaiah, former athlete Kalachanda Ravi Thammaiah and coffee planter Kalachanda G Kariappa.

(Photos by Rangaswamy)