Hockey fest begins with spl thanks to 24 families

Madikeri: The renowned Kodava hockey tournament, recognised by Guinness World Records, commenced in Madikeri. The silver jubilee celebrations of Kodava hockey are organised by the Muddanda family this year. The Muddanda Hockey Festival began on Friday with a special thanks to 24 Kodava families who previously hosted the tournament. These families were honoured with traditional ‘baale mariyadi' ceremony.The celebration began with a traditional procession through Madikeri, led by Muddanda family members and Kodava Hockey Academy participants. Upon reaching the Field Marshal KM Cariappa Grounds, the venue for the matches, the ‘baale mariyadi' ritual was performed. Virajpet MLA AS Ponanna, and other representatives, were present.Ponanna highlighted the tournament's 25-year legacy, acknowledging founders Pandanda Kuttappa and Pandanda Kashi who initiated it in 1997. He noted the tournament's significance in preserving Kodava cultural heritage. "With 396 Kodava families participating and achieving Guinness recognition last year, the tournament has gained national and international recognition," he stated.Mysore MP Yaduveer Wadiyar unveiled the Muddanda Hockey Cup book, praising the organisers' zero-waste initiative and the inclusion of women's teams. Madikeri MLA Manthar Gowda emphasised the tournament's role in showcasing Kodava culture and unity. The event was attended by MLC Suja Kushalappa, former MLA KG Bopaiah, DC Venkat Raja, SP K Ramarajan, Olympian AB Subbaiah, and other officials.The inauguration featured exhibition matches involving district administration teams, Muddanda family, Kodava Hockey Academy, and Karnataka X1. The tournament has 396 Kodava families and 48 women's teams.