Kodava Samaja condemns writer Poonacha's controversial remarks on Kodava community

Bengaluru: After statements made by writer Thambanda Poonacha at the Bangalore Literature Festival held recently in the city, the Kodava Samaja in Bengaluru condemned Mr Poonacha’s controversial statements on the Kodava community.

The Kodava Samaja Bengaluru, a representative body elected by over 20,000 individuals from the Kodava community in Bengaluru has released a robust condemnation of the remarks made by writer Mr. Poonacha in an official statement.

The Kodava Samaja contends that Mr Poonacha has distorted and manipulated historical facts, portraying the Kodava community in an unfavorable manner and deeply offending their sentiments.

Kodavas' contributions to the Independence movement

A press release from Kodava Samaja Bengaluru underscores the exclusion of individuals such as Mathanda Appachu, Mandira Uthaiah, Shanteyanda Mallaiah, Pandiyanda Seetha Belliappa, Paruvangada Kushalappa, Kollimada Karumbaiah, Apparanda Chengappa, Mallengada Chengappa, Cheppudira Poonacha, and others from recent discussions at Bangalore Literature festival.

“We dispute the claims that Kodavas collaborated with the British for personal gains, emphasizing the community's ownership of lands and possession of guns even before the British era,” a release stated.

The statement by Kodava Samaja upholds Diwan Bopanna's reputation, recognizing the British's suspicions about his loyalty while underscoring his unwavering commitment to his governmental responsibilities as both a Government and Army officer. The release emphasizes Bopanna's noteworthy contributions, including his role in renovating the Padi Igguthappa Temple, advocacy for coffee cultivation in Kodagu, and active involvement in the upliftment of the Kappla labor community.

What is the controversy?

During a talk by Mr. Ponnacha on the topic 'Uprisings in Kodagu and Dakshina Kannada in the early 1800s' at the Bangalore Literature Festival, as per a report by TOI, he elucidated different aspects of the revolt against British rule in the Kodagu region (formerly Coorg). According to the report, Mr. Ponnacha discussed how a faction of Kodavas collaborated with the British, gaining advantages from their association.

Members of the Kodava community expressed disapproval of these statements, leading the Kodava Samaja to release a statement condemning Mr. Ponnacha's talk.