'Is This A Hockey Final Or Political Rally?': Spectators Question Muddanda Hockey Festival Organisers

MADIKERI: The month-long Muddanda Hockey Festival, part of the larger Kodava Hockey Festival, is concluding on April 27. However, what was expected to be a grand sporting event turned into a political gathering, leaving many spectators frustrated.

More than just one or two leaders, a large number of politicians and officials were present on the final day. Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, Urban Development and Town Planning Minister Byrathi Suresh, MLAs A.S. Ponnanna, Mantar Gowda, and Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar Kodagu-Mysuru MP and several district officials, crowded the stage. Their lengthy speeches delayed the much-awaited final match by over four hours, forcing spectators to sit under the hot afternoon sun.

Disappointed fans criticised the festival organisers for inviting so many political leaders instead of focusing on sportspersons. Many questioned why the emphasis was placed on politicians and officials with no direct link to hockey or sports.

Social media too buzzed with discontent. Rajith Mundachadira posted that the event had become a "politics hockey tournament" instead of a Kodava hockey festival. Another user, Somanna Nambudumada, sarcastically asked whether there would be a final match at all or only speeches.

Even during the live streaming of the final, viewers criticised the organisers for turning a sporting celebration into a political show.

As the dust settles on this year’s Muddanda Hockey Festival, the organisers are now facing serious questions about the direction of the event and whether the true spirit of Kodava hockey is being sidelined.

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