The Kodava people are an ethnic group native to the Kodagu district in Karnataka, India. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their bravery, loyalty, and love for their land. Many Kodava individuals have made a name for themselves in various fields, including sports, arts, and politics. Here is a list of 10 famous people from the Kodava ethnic group:
- Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa: He was the first Indian commander-in-chief of the Indian Army and played a crucial role in India’s victory in the 1947-48 Indo-Pak war.
- Rani Abbakka Chowta: She was the queen of Ullal and is known as the first woman freedom fighter in India, who fought against the Portuguese colonial rule in the 16th century.
- Pemmaiah: He was an Indian hockey player who represented India in the 1956 Olympics and played a key role in winning the gold medal for the country.
- Robin Uthappa: He is a prominent Indian cricketer who has represented the national team and several IPL franchises. Uthappa was born in Kodagu and has a huge fan following.
- Rajeev Gowda: He is an Indian politician and Member of Parliament who has been making significant contributions in the field of education and public policy.
- Appanna: He is a professional cricketer who has played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and been a part of Karnataka’s successful domestic cricket team.
- Colonel M. N. Rai: He was an Indian Army officer and recipient of the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration. Colonel Rai sacrificed his life while fighting terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Thimmappa: He is a renowned sandalwood actor who has acted in several Kannada movies and gained a loyal fan following.
- Shikha Pandey: She is an Indian cricketer who has represented the national women’s cricket team and played a vital role in India’s success in various international tournaments.
- Mopsy Mathews: She is an Indian para-athlete who has won several medals in international long jump and shot put events, including the Paralympics and Asian Games.
The achievements of these famous individuals from the Kodava ethnic group showcase their immense talent, dedication, and contribution in various fields. They continue to inspire and make their community proud with their remarkable accomplishments.
Most Famous Kodava Celebrities
Kodagu, also known as Coorg, is a beautiful district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is famous for its verdant landscapes, coffee plantations, and rich cultural heritage. Over the years, Kodagu has produced several notable individuals who have made a name for themselves in various fields. Many of these celebrities have roots in Kodava, the native community of Kodagu. Here are some famous celebrities from Kodava roots:
- Ruthika: Ruthika, whose full name is B.C. Ruthika, is an Indian actress who predominantly works in the Telugu film industry. She made her acting debut in 2004 with the film “Nenu Saitham.” Ruthika hails from Ammathi, a small town in Kodagu, and has acted in over 30 movies in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada languages.
- Robin Uthappa: Robin Uthappa is a former Indian cricketer who represented the national team in both One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). He was born in Kodagu and started his cricketing journey from his hometown. Uthappa is known for his explosive batting style and was a key member of the Indian team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007.
- Nikki Galrani: Nikki Galrani is a South Indian actress who has worked in Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada films. She made her acting debut in 2013 with the Malayalam film “1983.” Nikki’s father hails from Kodagu, and she has acted in several successful movies, gaining popularity for her versatile performances.
- Prem Kumar: Prem Kumar is a prominent Indian film director and screenwriter who works primarily in the Kannada film industry. He has directed several critically acclaimed movies, including “Jogi,” “Raajakumara,” and “The Villain.” Prem Kumar was born and raised in Kodagu and his films have garnered a huge fan following.
- Diany Rebello: Diany Rebello is an Indian fashion model and winner of the 2001 Gladrags Megamodel Contest. She has worked with several leading fashion designers and appeared in various magazines and advertisements. Diany belongs to the Kodava community and has been a source of inspiration for many aspiring models.
Explore the rich tapestry of celebrities with Kodava ancestry listed above. Delve into the fascinating world of their diverse cultural backgrounds and achievements. For a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the latest celebrity news and updates on renowned figures from various fields, immerse yourself in the content available at Wikipedia.org.
Ethnic Factsheet: The Kodava People
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Kodava |
| Alternate Names | Coorgi, Kodagu |
| Region | Kodagu district, Karnataka, India |
| Population | Approximately 200,000 |
| Language | Kodava Takk |
| Religion | Primarily Hinduism, with a minority of Christians and Muslims |
| Traditional Occupation | Agriculture, primarily coffee and spices |
| Typical Dress | Men wear a traditional costume called ‘kupya’ and women wear ‘sari’ with a unique style |
| Festivals | Kailpodh, Cauvery Shankaramana, Puthari, Kail Muhurtha |
Kodava Ethnicity: References and Resources
Some references to dig deeper about Kodava ethnic include:
- Wikipedia – Kodava People: This Wikipedia page provides an overview of the Kodava people, their culture, history, language, and customs.
- Kodava Clan: The Kodava Clan website is a comprehensive resource for learning about Kodava history, customs, traditions, festivals, and rituals. It also provides genealogical information and connects people from the Kodava community.
- ResearchGate – Ethnic and Regional Identities in India: The Kodavas Today: This research paper delves into the ethnic and regional identities of the Kodava people in India. It discusses various aspects of Kodava culture, such as marriage, religion, language, and the impact of globalization and modernization on their traditions.
- Kodava.co.in: This website offers insights into Kodava history, culture, festivals, literature, and tourism. It also features articles, stories, and interviews with members of the Kodava community.
- ResearchGate – Member of A Coorg Entertainment and Entertainment System: Preservation of Kodava Culture: This research paper focuses on traditional Kodava dance forms, music, and cultural practices. It explores how the Kodava community preserves their cultural heritage.
That concludes the information we can provide about famous Kodava individuals. Thank you for reading.
