Coorg by LOKESH ABROL Summary and Q&A Solved Explained

 Summary

Nestled between Mysore and Mangalore, Coorg, India's smallest district, charms with misty hills, lush rainforests, and coffee plantations. The fiercely independent Kodavu people, with possible Greek or Arab ancestry, call this land home. Coffee reigns supreme, filling the air with its invigorating aroma. Adventure seekers can kayak in rivers, trek through forests, or even encounter wild elephants. Don't miss the panoramic views from Brahmagiri hills or a walk across the rope bridge to Nisargadhama Island. For a true Coorgi experience, stay in a coffee estate or home and soak in the warm hospitality. Madikeri, easily accessible by air, rail, or road, is your gateway to this hidden gem of India.

Multiple Choice Questions for Extra Practice 

Thinking About the Text

1. Where is Coorg?

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is the smallest district of Karnataka, India. It sits midway between Mysore and the coastal town of Mangalore.

2. What is the story about the Kodavu people's descent?

There are two main stories about the Kodavu people's descent:

• Greek descent: One story suggests that part of Alexander's army settled in Coorg when returning south became impractical. Their intermarriage with locals supposedly led to the martial traditions and distinct cultural practices of the Kodavus.
• Arab descent: Another theory draws support from the long, black coat worn by Kodavus (kuppia) resembling the kuffia worn by Arabs and Kurds.

3. What are some of the things you now know about:

(i) the people of Coorg:

They are fiercely independent and known for their martial traditions. They have a distinct culture with unique marriage and religious rites, different from mainstream Hinduism. Hospitality is deeply ingrained in their traditions, and they love sharing stories of their valorous ancestors. Kodavus are the only people in India allowed to carry firearms without a license.

(ii) the main crop of Coorg:

Coffee is the main crop of Coorg. The region is famous for its coffee plantations and invigorating coffee aroma.

(iii) the sports it offers to tourists:

Coorg offers a variety of high-energy adventure activities like river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Numerous walking trails cater to trekkers.

(iv) the animals you are likely to see in Coorg:

Wild elephants are often encountered in the forests. The Kaveri river is home to mahaseer fish, kingfishers, squirrels, langurs, and elephants. Birds, bees, butterflies, macaques, Malabar squirrels, and slender loris can be spotted in the tree canopy.

(v) its distance from Bangalore, and how to get there:

Coorg is around 250-260 km from Bangalore. Madikeri, the district headquarters, is the main gateway and offers various accommodation options like resorts, coffee estates, and homestays. YOne can reach Coorg by air (Mangalore or Bangalore airports), train (Mysore, Mangalore, or Hassan), or road (via Mysore or Neelamangal).

4. Here are six sentences with some words in italics. Find phrases from the text that have the same meaning. (Look in the paragraphs indicated)

(i) During monsoons it rains so heavily that tourists do not visit Coorg. (para 2)

ANSWER: "to keep many visitors away"

(ii) Some people say that Alexander’s army moved south along the coast and settled there. (para 3)

ANSWER: "As one story goes" 

(iii) The Coorg people are always ready to tell stories of their sons’ and fathers’ valour. (para 4)

ANSWER: "are more than willing"

(iv) Even people who normally lead an easy and slow life get smitten by the high-energy adventure sports of Coorg. (para 6)

ANSWER: "The most laidback individuals become converts"

(v) The theory of the Arab origin is supported by the long coat with embroidered waist-belt they wear. (para 3)

ANSWER: "draws support"

(vi) Macaques, Malabar squirrels observe you carefully from the tree canopy. (para 7) 

ANSWER: "keep a watchful eye"

Multiple Choice Questions for Extra Practice