Kodava Diaspora in Muscat Celebrates Kailpodh With Traditional Fervour

The Muscat event not only revived these traditions but also strengthened the bonds of the Kodava diaspora in Oman. Photos by: Palangiyanda Madhu Mandanna

Muscat: The Kodava community in Oman came together to mark Kailpodh, the festival that celebrates the warrior spirit of Kodavas, with a colourful gathering organised by Team Coorg Muscat on September 19, 2025, at the Muscat Holiday Hotel in Al Khuwair.

According to Palangiyanda Madhu Mandanna, one of the members of Team Coorg, the event, themed around unity and tradition, drew families and friends for an evening of cultural performances, competitions, and celebrations. Guests of honour included Muckatira Kumudha Madappa, mother of Muscat resident Muckatira Deepak Madappa, as well as Nadikeriyanda Vinesh Erappa with his wife Yeshodha, and Buttiyanda Manju Subbaiah with his wife Jeevitha.

The programme opened with a prayer song by Bollepanda Savitha Ganapathy, followed by a welcome address by Muckatira Poojitha Chengappa. Newcomers to the community were introduced by Manavattira Mouna Monnappa, while Napanda Lakshmi Aiyappa presented an achievement report and also conducted a Kodava quiz. A raffle draw, anchored by Bachamanda Lavin Mandanna, added excitement, before the evening closed with a vote of thanks by Alemada Ramya Kushalappa.

The highlight of the celebration was the Thaali Paat, a traditional Kodava feast, alongside a display of Kodava attire (kupya and podiya), an ainmane model, and a showcase of Kodava literature. Participants in the Thaali Paat included Palangiyanda Madhu Mandanna, Napanda Dinal Aiyappa, Iychanda Niran Nanaiah, and Napanda Somanna, with younger members also taking part.

Kailpodh, observed annually on September 3 in Kodagu, symbolises the readiness of Kodavas to defend their land and homes. Historically, it marks the end of sowing season when agricultural tools are set aside and weapons are worshipped. Families decorate their homes, prepare traditional meals, and display arms as a tribute to their warrior heritage.

The Muscat event, organised under the leadership of President Kannambira Subash Subbaiah, not only revived these traditions but also strengthened the bonds of the Kodava diaspora in Oman.

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