COORG NOTES 2

Kodavas in general are proud of their unique culture.They call themselves ‘Children of Mother Kavery’.Their food habits,dress code,beliefs,rituals and ceremonies are different from those of others living in Kodagu.Outsiders may feel that the community is strong and will continue to be so for many more decades.But it is a sad fact that the number of Kodavas are fast dwindling in Kodagu.Most of the educated youths among Kodavas do not like to continue in their native place.They move to Mysore or Bangalooru for higher studies and seek jobs there itself.Some among them get employed in other cities in the country or get chances to seek their fortune in foreign countries. All of them are almost cut off from the culture nurtured by their parents and ancestors.Many observers fear that after 50 years the traits of original Kodava culture may turn to be a faint memory. Paddy cultivation in Kodagu began to give way to coffee plantations during the British rule.Coorg coffee was recognised as the best in the country .The recognition remains true even now.Coffe estates considerably raised the financial status of many Kodavas and their life rose to very high standards.But the new generation is disintersted in coffee cultivation also.They show haste in leaving Coorg with the hope that a more fashinable,eventful and enjoyable life could be realised in cities.No one can resist or blame them. They have the freedom to act according to their concept of life. But the unpleasent fact that Kodavas are shrinking to a small minority in Kodagu and their culture is slowly vanishing looms over this beautiful land and many feel sorry and helpless. 21/5/2016