The threat of Covid-19 seized the festive spirit of Kodava new year -'Edamyar Ondh', which fell on Tuesday. People celebrated the festival in a simple fashion in their agricultural fields.
The Kodava new year was celebrated in a simple way by Codava National Council (CNC) at the paddy field of Koopadira in Bettatturu in Madikeri taluk on Tuesday, by ploughing the field in a traditional way.
CNC President N U Nachappa offered prayers to mother earth and tilled the land using a pair of oxen. Member Koopadira Guru offered prayers to Guru Kaarona.
Speaking on the occasion, Nachappa said that Edamyar festival marks the beginning of the agricultural season. Farmers make preparations for the transplantation of crops to be done at the onset of monsoon. Edamyar is among the major five festivals in the district, which are closely related to agriculture.
Dr B R Ambedkar was remembered on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Owing to his contributions, Kodava people were able to place their demands as per the provisions in the Constitution.