Villagers Oppose Commercial Activity Near Sacred Igguthappa Malama Betta in Kodagu

A view of the Padi Sri Igguthappa Temple near Kakkabe in Madikeri taluk, Kodagu. Photo: The Kodagu Express

Napoklu: Residents of Kakkabe, Nelaji and Peroor villages in Kodagu have come together to oppose the alleged commercial use of land near the sacred Malama Betta, also known as Igguthappa Betta, a revered hill associated with the famous Padi Igguthappa Temple.

The temple, situated near Kakkabe in Madikeri taluk, is one of the most important places of worship for the Kodava community and devotees from across Kodagu. Nestled amid lush hills, the temple lies at the foothills of Malama Betta, which is regarded as a sacred peak by local residents.

According to villagers, around 80 acres of land near the hill was recently sold by a local resident to outsiders. Residents have expressed concern that the land could be used for commercial purposes, which they fear may affect the sanctity of the area and the surrounding environment.

To discuss the issue, villagers from Kakkabe, Nelaji and Peroor, along with devotees of Lord Igguthappa and members of the Kodava Samaja, gathered for a meeting on Sunday. Participants unanimously resolved to oppose any alleged commercial development near the sacred hill and decided to approach government authorities seeking intervention.

Speaking at the meeting, Paradanda Subramani, president of the Akhila Kodava Samaja, stressed the need for collective action to protect the area. “We need to show our unity against such illegal and environmentally destructive projects being taken up near this historically significant and sacred place in Kodagu,” he said.

The gathering also resolved to submit representations to the district administration, including the Deputy Commissioner, the Tourism Department, local MLA and Member of Parliament, urging them to prevent any activity that could harm the religious and ecological significance of the region.

The meeting further decided to convene a special gathering on June 20 to discuss the issue in greater detail and chart out the next course of action.

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