Day 4 of ‘Kodavaame Baalo Padayatra’ Gains Momentum in Kodagu, Passes Virajpet

The fourth day of the Kodagu community march witnessed an overwhelming response from the public in Virajpet, Kodagu. Photo: The Kodagu Express

Virajpet: The fourth day of the 82-km ‘Kodavaame Baalo Padayatra,’ a peace march aimed at advocating for the constitutional rights and protection of Kodava customs and traditions, commenced on Wednesday morning. Starting from Bittangala, thousands of Kodava-speaking participants gathered to make their voices heard, bringing attention to the growing challenges threatening the community’s existence and security.

From Bittangala, the marchers resumed their journey through Heggade Samaja, passed by Virajpet Clock Tower and Kakotuparambu, and concluded the day's leg at Bethri. The march, which began on February 2 from Kutta, reached T. Shettigeri on the first day. On February 3, the march continued to Ponnampet, and on February 4, thousands of participants, adorned in traditional attire, walked from Ponnampet to Bittangala via Gonikoppa.

ADVT

The march has seen a strong show of support along the route. The Kembatti community offered refreshments to the marchers at Jodubeeti, while local Kodava families in Aruvathokkalu village, near the Coffee Board, extended their hospitality. Other communities, including the Koyava Samaja, Iri Samaja, Kodava Madivaala, Boone Pattama Kodava Muslim, and Savitha Samaja, also organised welcome ceremonies to greet the participants.

A spiritual moment was marked at the Vana Bhadrakali Temple, where prayers were offered, and refreshments were arranged for the marchers. The Kannangala Jamma Muslim community also expressed its support, with Mandamada Mohammed passionately voicing solidarity with the event. At Bittangala, the Heggade Samaja, led by Padanjaranda Aiyappa, welcomed the marchers with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and a special high tea, further strengthening the sense of unity and support for the cause.

The march, set to conclude in Madikeri, continues to highlight the pressing need for government intervention in securing the rights and cultural identity of the Kodava community.

To advertise on The Kodagu Express website, kindly call us at 9108795369 or mail us at thekodaguexpress@gmail.com 

Join The Kodagu Express WhatsApp Group: CLICK HERE 

Follow us on Instagram and X(Twitter)