Madikeri: The Kandanda family in Kodagu recently inaugurated their newly built Ainmane (ancestral house) in the heart of Kolakeri village, Napoklu-Nad, Kodagu.

The original Ainmane, believed to be around 600 years old, has been rebuilt while retaining its heritage aesthetics. The reconstruction, completed with a budget of approximately Rs. 1 crore, was funded by contributions from family members and close relatives.

The Pattedara (senior male family member), Kandanda A. Subbaiah, inaugurated the Ainemane by lighting the lamp. Kandanda Paridhi Poovamma rendered the invocation, seeking the blessings of Goddess Cauvery.

Before the ceremony, guests and well-wishers, including Thamane daughters (married Kandanda women) were formally welcomed and escorted from the Kaimada (a family shrine dedicated to ancestors) to the Ainmane amid the rhythmic beats of Komb Kott (traditional drums).

The celebrations featured vibrant welcome dances by Kandanda women and their daughters, dressed in colourful traditional attire, captivating the audience. Guests and relatives shared their thoughts on preserving the traditions and cultural heritage of the dwindling Kodava community, emphasising collective efforts for the prosperity of village families.

Kandanda M. Ponnanna and Rekha Ponnanna served as the event’s MC. Prominent senior guests honoured at the event included: Kundyolanda S. Subbaiah, Boliyadira Raja Somaiyya, Puchimanda Sabu Kuttappa, Mandepanda Sundari Kuttappa, Biddatanda Dikki Somaiyya, Boliyadira Bollavva, Kannambira Changappa, Bottolanda Appanna, Ketolira Kuttappa, Kaliyanda Shambu Madappa, Appachira Suresh Belliappa, Kumbarada Chomuni, Kandanda Ammunu Chondavva, Chermana, Joyappa and Bopanna.

Jaya Karumbayya, Secretary of the Kandanda family, was felicitated for his contributions. At the same time, Kandanda M. Ponnanna, Secretary of the Ainmane Renovation Committee, was honoured for his dedicated efforts in ensuring the smooth completion of the project.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Kandanda B. Joyappa, followed by the National Anthem.