Madikeri, Feb. 1 -- The Kodava community, a martial race with a unique cultural identity, will embark on a peace march from Feb. 2 to 7 to raise awareness about their dwindling population and cultural erosion.

Organised by the Federation of Kodava Samajas, Kodava-speaking native communities and Kodava Language Communities Association, the 80-km march will begin in Kutta, near the Kerala border and conclude in Madikeri.

The community has voiced concerns over cultural marginalisation, citing incidents such as the denial of temple entry in traditional attire and a decline in political representation. Migration into Kodagu has further exacerbated fears of socio-political neglect.

Shrinking population

Once numbering around 3 lakh five deca...