Kodagu freedom fighters honoured during I-Day event
The event aimed to honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters from Kodagu district.
This event, part of the
Independence Day celebrations
in Ponnampet, highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of Kodagu in India's struggle for Independence.
A key feature of the event was a photo exhibition inaugurated by Buttianda Kusum Aiyappa, whose ancestors were freedom fighters. The exhibition showcased the service and sacrifices of Kodagu's freedom fighters, aiming to educate the public and ensure that the contributions of these local heroes are not forgotten.
Virajpet MLA AS Ponnanna praised the organisers for their efforts in commemorating the sacrifices of Kodagu's freedom fighters. Paradanda Suman Subramani, president of Akhila Kodava Samaja, emphasised the significant role played by the Kodavas in India's Independence. He urged the govt to recognise heroes like Mathanda Appachu, who valiantly fought against British forces.
UKO president Kokkalemada Manju Chinnappa expressed concern that only a few freedom fighters receive recognition at national and state levels. He called for local recognition and commemoration of Kodagu's real freedom fighters by the district administration and gram panchayats to preserve their legacy. The event included cultural programmes and patriotic songs, aiming to introduce the current generation to the historical contributions of Kodagu's freedom fighters.
UKO also submitted a memorandum with various resolutions to MLA Ponnanna, advocating for greater recognition and honour for these local heroes.
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