Kodava Samaja Bengaluru election turns bitter, raising concerns over unity

BENGALURU: What was expected to be a quiet internal election for office bearers of Kodava Samaja, Bengaluru, has turned bitter, marked by police complaint, viral mudslinging, and allegations of money power.The contest, between Cheriyapanda Suresh and Baleyada Karun Kalappa, has surprised many within the community. Senior Kodavas say the intensity of this election is unprecedented.Videos, memes, and audio clips mocking rival camps have flooded WhatsApp groups, leading to digital sparring within a community otherwise known for discipline and tradition. “It is embarrassing. We are a small community of less than 1.5 lakh people, and here we are tearing each other apart in public,” said Poyyattira M Changappa, a senior community member.

The Kodavas, who hail from Kodagu district in Karnataka, are historically known for their association with the armed forces, policing, and disciplined service. Their cultural practices include greeting elders by touching their feet, adherence to rituals, and a strong sense of unity.“We are a proud martial community with an unbroken link to the nation’s military history. Field Marshal K M Cariappa and General K S Thimayya were icons not just for us but for the entire country,” said Koothanda K Santhosh, a hockey player and banker.

“That is why the present divisions are painful to witness.”The Kodava Samaja in Bengaluru is more than a community association. Located on land in Vasanthnagar originally allotted by the Maharaja of Mysore to Cariappa in 1959, it was later donated by him to the community. Since 1961, it has grown into a cultural hub, known today as the FM Cariappa Convention Centre.“It is a place of pride for every Kodava in Bengaluru. When people walk into the Samaja, they see a living symbol of our culture and unity,” said Naleyanda Deepak. “That is why the current spectacle of division and infighting is so disturbing.”Several senior Kodavas argue the election has crossed all traditional boundaries. “In the past, we would unanimously elect a respected senior. This mudslinging will only create bitterness in the community,” said Theetharamada J Bopanna.Others expressed concern that real issues were being sidelined. “The community is already facing challenges — declining land ownership in Kodagu, community not accepting inter-caste marriages, shrinking numbers, and pressures of modern life. Instead of addressing these, we are busy spending money on elections and fighting like political parties,” said Chemira Sanju PoonachaAllegations of money power are also rife. “Candidates are hosting booze parties to woo voters.

This is not our tradition. Why should anyone spend so much money to get elected unless they see power or influence in the position?” said some senior members, who did not want to be identified. The campaign itself has begun to resemble political battles. “Look at the way WhatsApp groups are flooded with campaign material. Every day, I wake up to see another video mocking the other side. This was never the way of the Kodavas,” said Chandapanda Prajwal Poovanna.Younger Kodavas, however, see positives in the contest. “At least there is interest. For too long, community bodies have been run by the same set of people without change. A contest brings accountability,” said Poyyattira M Changappa. He added that while some office bearers worked hard to develop the Samaja and secure seven acres of land for expansion, progress since then has been limited to renovation works.Community members are increasingly worried about what this election represents for the future of the Samaja. “The Samaja is not just four walls in Vasanthnagar. It represents our culture, identity, and heritage. We cannot let it be reduced to the level of a political battleground,” said SantoshHe added that the Samaja has been instrumental in preserving Kodava traditions and festivals such as Kailpodh and Puttari, while giving city-based Kodavas a strong sense of belonging.

“When our forefathers entrusted us with this institution, they expected us to safeguard it. Elections should not become a tool to divide us.”Calls for restraint are growing louder. “At the end of the day, we are a small community. The world knows us for our discipline, our military service, and our hospitality. If we destroy that reputation over an election, it will be a shame,” said Deepak.As voting day approaches on Sunday, the contest between Suresh and Kalappa promises to be closely fought. But many within the community fear that regardless of the outcome, the scars of this election may take longer to heal than expected.