Padebeera Bottola Maanicha

Author 

Bottolanda Nanaiah

life

In the idyllic village of Kealkeri, Peroor, where the echoes of tradition resonated through the narrow lanes, Padebeera Bottola Maanicha emerged as a beacon of valor and spirituality. Born into the quaint Bottola family in Kealkeri-Peroor, his journey transcended the ordinary and unfolded as a saga of devotion and courage.

In his formative years, the spirited Maanicha, fueled by an innate thirst for knowledge, embarked on a pilgrimage to the mystical lands of Kerala. The Kalakattilam temple, steeped in ancient Tantric wisdom, became his sanctuary for the next twelve years. Under the wise tutelage of a venerable priest, Maanicha immersed himself in the profound art of Tantric rituals.

The culmination of his spiritual odyssey came when the priest, recognizing Maanicha’s mastery, presented him with a sacred 5 koot moothis with Tantric belt & . However, the ultimate test awaited – a demonstration of his skills. With unwavering resolve, Maanicha stood on one leg for an astounding 48 days in the temple’s river, the melody of mantras resonating in harmony with the flowing waters. The priest, witnessing this ethereal display, nodded in awe and approval.

After twelve years of spiritual enlightenment, Maanicha returned to the embrace of his homeland in Kodagu. His arrival coincided with a pivotal moment in his destiny. The Haleri Dynasty, acknowledging his unparalleled courage, appointed him as the Courageous & Bravest Warrior for Naalnaad.

Yet, fate unfurled a tapestry of challenges. A servant of the dynasty arrived at Peroor, bearing news of impending conflict. Simultaneously, the Bottola family, amidst the quaint charm of Peroor, sought a bride for their valiant scion.

The convergence of love and duty set the stage for Maanicha’s poignant journey. Armed with a lunch box adorned with NettMatt leaves, prepared by his sister-in-law, and blessed by Guru Karona, Lord Igguthappa, and Kaveramme, Maanicha set forth on his noble quest. The journey through the Nell Maali Kund – Bongey Paarey, marked by the gentle caress of the afternoon sun, revealed an unexpected trial. Opening the lunch box, Maanicha discovered rice mixed with cow dung, nails, and hairs—a disheartening revelation that failed to deter his determination.

Undeterred, he sought blessings at sacred sites like Kadodi Choundi temple and Thavoor Choundi temple. The path led him to the battlefield of Annachira Yaaka, where enemies concealed themselves, shooting from the shadows. With a resounding call, Maanicha challenged them to face him directly.

In a display of unmatched valor, he single-handedly vanquished all 500 to 1000 army personals of Karnambavu with the Coorg Matclock gun and Odikathi. The aftermath, however, revealed the tragic climax of his journey. Washing his feet in a stream near Annachira Yaaka, Maanicha faced betrayal from three to four enemies shooting from behind.

In a moment of profound inquiry, he asked, “Do you really need to kill me?” Their somber reply, burdened by the weight of their predicament, prompted an unexpected decision. In an act of profound nobility, Maanicha, facing certain death, cut his Tantric Rituals belt from his thigh.

For ten days, his body lay untouched, a testament to the awe and respect inspired by his sacrifice. The Bottolanda and Moovera families, upon receiving the heart-wrenching news, embarked on a somber pilgrimage to Thaavu Naad Annachira Yaaka. With reverence, they gathered his scattered body pieces and brought him back to Peroor, where Padebeera Bottola Maanicha found eternal rest—a hero immortalized in the echoes of sacrifice and indomitable courage.