Virtual Modagoodē. Virtual Museum

The “ Virtual Modha Goodē ”  is an attempt made to create a virtual museum and would like to accommodate lots of parameters that will facilitate visitors across the globe. Virtual Museum Visitors will now get to know the location of the artifact  as the mapping of the artifact to the location of the artifact will be done as a value addition to the Virtual Modagoodē. This helps researchers in reaching out to their interested articles and gain information

Modha Goode

Modha Goodē (also spelled Modha Goode) is a Kodava term referring to a museum or a place where objects of heritage and memory are preserved. In Kodagu, many families possess artifacts inherited across generations, often stored in ancestral homes or discovered in attics. These objects reflect the cultural, social, and ecological history of the region.

The Virtual Modha Goodē is a digital initiative designed to document, preserve, and present such artifacts in an accessible, structured format. The platform aggregates items from across Kodagu and classifies them under multiple parameters, enabling systematic study and interpretation.

A key feature of the virtual museum is the geospatial mapping of artifacts. Each listed object is associated with its physical location, allowing researchers and interested individuals to identify and, where possible, access the artifact in person. This integration of location data enhances the research value of the collection and facilitates field-based study.

The platform also documents the individuals and families connected to these artifacts, highlighting their historical and cultural significance. In addition to written records, the initiative seeks to preserve oral histories by recording the experiences of elderly custodians. These narratives may be presented through audio recordings and, where feasible, accompanied by video documentation demonstrating the traditional use of the artifacts.

Unlike conventional museums, the virtual format allows for the inclusion of extended metadata. This may include the estimated period of use, context of usage, reasons for decline or extinction, and other interpretative details. The Virtual Modha Goodē thus serves as a comprehensive digital archive aimed at preserving Kodagu’s material culture while making it accessible to a global audience.

Team

Concept

Gummattira Kishoo uthappa

Article Collection

Adengada Rajesh

Compiled by

Gummattira Aaira Dechamma

Photography

Kunjiyanda Machaiah

Achandira Kushalappa

Contents

Gummattira Kishoo uthappa

Alphabetically

A

•  Aal Potti (ಆಲ್ ಪೊಟ್ಟಿ)
  • Aal Potti refers to a traditional wooden cupboard used in Kodava households for storing clothes, valuables, and household essentials. Typically crafted from sturdy local wood, it reflects the simplicity and durability of Kodava domestic furniture, often passed down through generations.
• Aare Changole (ಆರೆ ಚಂಗೋಲೆ)
  • Aare Changole is a decorative chain-like ornament worn across the chele when men are dressed in the traditional white kupya. It enhances the ceremonial appearance and signifies pride in Kodava identity and attire..
• Agistike (ಅಗಸ್ಟಿಕೆ )
  • Agistike refers to burning embers, commonly preserved from the household fireplace. These embers were traditionally used to rekindle fire, symbolizing continuity of the hearth and the central role of fire in Kodava homes.
• Achi koll (ಅಚ್ಚಿ ಕೊಲ್)
  • Achi Koll is a slender implement used to fill gunpowder into rifles. It reflects the martial traditions of the Kodavas, where precision and preparedness in handling firearms were essential.
• Adike Kattari  (ಅಡಿಕೆ ಕಟ್ಟಾರಿ)
  • Adike Kattari is a specialized nipper used to cut areca nuts. As areca nut consumption is deeply embedded in Kodava culture, this tool was an essential part of everyday life and hospitality practices.
• Adaph (ಅಡಾಫ್)
  • Adaph is a traditional shoulder bag used for carrying personal items, tools, or provisions. It was commonly used during travel, agricultural work, and hunting expeditions.
• Adoori (ಅದೂರಿ)
  • Adoori is a cloth tied around the udder of a cow to prevent the calf from suckling milk before it is collected. This practice reflects traditional methods of livestock management in Kodagu.
• Adcha (ಅಡ್ಚ)
  • Adcha is a type of trap used for catching wild animals. It represents indigenous knowledge of forest life and survival techniques practiced in the hilly terrains of Kodagu
• Akki Pittari / Akki Potti (ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಪಿಟ್ಟಾರಿ / ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಪೊಟ್ಟಿ)
  • Akki Pittari or Akki Potti is a wooden storage box used to store rice, the staple food of the region. These containers were designed to protect grain from moisture and pests, ensuring long-term preservation.
• Akki Batti (ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಬಟ್ಟಿ)
  • Akki Batti is a basket made of bamboo, cane, or reed, traditionally used for storing rice. It is often coated with cow dung to enhance durability and protect against insects, showcasing sustainable practices.
• Akki Komme (ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಕೊಮ್ಮೆ)
  • Akki Komme is a large lidded basket made from bamboo or cane, used for storing rice and grains. Its size and structure make it ideal for bulk storage in agrarian households.
• Ambali chatuwa (ಅಂಬಳಿ ಚಟುವ)
  • Ambali Chatuwa is a ladle used in the preparation of ambali, a traditional porridge. It reflects the culinary practices of Kodava households, where simple and nourishing foods were common
• Ambthotti (ಅಂಬ್ತೊಟ್ಟಿ)
  • Ambthotti is a quiver used to carry arrows. It forms part of traditional hunting equipment and symbolizes the warrior heritage of the Kodavas
• Ambh Bill (ಅಂಭ್ ಬಿಲ್)
  • Ambh Bill refers to a bow used in hunting and warfare. It represents one of the earliest forms of weaponry used in Kodagu.
• Andhkode (ಅನ್ಧಕೊಡೆ)
  • UAndkode is an umbrella-like ceremonial object made of palm leaves, held over idols during temple processions. It signifies reverence and honor in religious practices.
• Andhol (ಅಂಡೋಲ್)
  • Andhol is a palanquin-like structure made of wood or cane, used to carry a hero, noble person, or deity. It reflects social hierarchy and ceremonial traditions.
• Arpa kall (ಅರ್ಪ ಕಲ್ಲು)
  • Arpa Kall is a traditional grinding stone used for processing grains and spices. It was an essential tool in every household kitchen before mechanized grinding became common.
• Avlaki oleke (ಅವಲಕ್ಕಿ ಒಲೆಕೆ)
  • Avlaki Oleke is a wooden baton used in the preparation of flattened rice (avlaki). It highlights traditional food processing techniques practiced in Kodagu.

B

• Baal charate (Kaikane )  (ಬಾಳ್ ಚರಟೆ / ಕೈಕಣೆ)
  • Baal Charate, also known as Kaikane, is a traditional ladle made from a coconut shell attached to a bamboo handle. It was widely used in Kodava kitchens for serving liquids such as curries and ambali, reflecting the resourceful use of natural materials.
• Batti (ಬಟ್ಟಿ)
  • Batti refers to a large basket or pan made from bamboo, cane, or reed. It is typically coated with cow dung to improve durability and resistance to pests, and is commonly used for storing and handling agricultural produce.
• Balnji  (ಬಳಂಜಿ)
  • Large semi – spherical basket like enclosure made from bamboo strips woven with open spaces.
• Beejo Kall  /  Beejwa kall
  • Balnji is a large semi spherical basket like enclosure woven from bamboo strips with open spaces. It is traditionally used for storage, drying, or protecting agricultural produce, particularly in outdoor settings.
• Biraali potti
  • Storage unit for clothes made of cane 
• Bolcha 
  • lamp 
    • Mann Bolcha
      • Lamp Made of Mud / Clay
    • Kall Bolcha
      • Lamp Made of  stone
    • Thook Bolcha
      • Hanging lamp made of Bronze / Brass
    • Thaliyathakki bolcha
      • A silver or bell metal plate with a layer of rice with a small mud or brass oil lamp lit with wicks betel leaves – betel nut
    • Kuth Bolcha
      • Standing lamp made Bronze, Brass or even steel now a days
    • Ceemanne  /  Thiri Bolcha
      • Lamp used with kerosene oil during nights
• Bolcha parr
  • lamp holder
• Bolle kall kutuwa
  • Used to store toddy

C

• Chandukha
  • storage unit made of wood vessel vessel made out of mud vessel made out of Iron Jwellery storage unit
• Chatti
  • vessel
    • Mann Chatti
      •  Vessel made out of mud
    • Baal Chatti
    • Cheen chatti
      • Vessel made out of Iron 
• Chele
  • Chele is a waist band to secure the kupya worn by Kodava men.
• Cheppu
  • Jwellery storage unit
• Cholle
  • small conical cup made from leaf
• Chowri
  • False hair
• Chowri
  • Fly Whisk

D

• Dhudi
  • Small drum

E

• Eli kathari
  • Mouse trap
• Enne charak
  • Used to heat hair oil (usually for brides and pregnant women)

G

• Gejje thand
  • Sacred wand
• Gujaayee
  • earthern water pot

K

• Kaachankal mooppe
  • unit to store liquor made of mud or dry bottle guard
• Kadawoo
  • wooden slippers
• Kadthale
  • Sword used during thirola
• Kaikane
  •  Ladle
• Kaikane Neele 
  •  Ladle rack
• Kaiko0l
  • stick used for neutralizing a bull
• Kall kaatchwa kudi
  • used to make liquor
• kall mana
  • unit of measure (weight) 
• Kanjikala
  • storage unit for rice porridge 
• Kark poda
  • fish trap 
• Kathi nale
  • knife/dagger/sword hanger 
• Kathi
  • Odi kathi 
    • sword used by kodava during warfare
  • Peeche kathi
    • Knife used by kodava men while wearing a kupya with chele 
  • Pule kathi
    • knife used to collect leaves from tall trees and cutting bamboo 
  • Pill kathi
    • used to cut paddy and grass
  • Aamb kathi
    • used for kailpodh festival / used by women during warfare
• Kattole
  • Kattole is referred to door frame. A rectangular frame into which a door is fitted.
• Kindi
  • A small metal pot or vessel with a narrow spout.
• Kodiyaale kutt
  • mortar and pestle specially used for Bettle leaves
• Kokoriya
  • large wooden ladle
• Komme
  • grocery storage unit made of cane used to keep otti, rice etc
• Kool chibbi
  • rice strainer 
• Kooparr
  • wodden plate used to strain rice while cooking
• Koramb
  • unit to store fish catch
• Koramba Kode / Kori kode
  • umbrella like item placed on one’s head to protect against rain; and were commonly used in the ancient days.
• Kudke
  • cooling mud pot 
• Kull kudike
  • unit of storage for small rice
• Kumbala komme
  • Storage unit in shape of pumpkin, made of cane 
• Kuthi
  • Container made from hollowed bamboo
• Kotta
  1. Kuri kotta
     • used to carry kuri ( basma ) ( Vibhuthi )
  2. Chand kota
     • used to carry sandal wood paste 
  3. Bandha / Sambrani kotta
     • used to carry dhuppa ( Resin powder ) 
  4. Chill kotta
     • used to carry gun powder and pellets.
• Kupaya
  • Kodava man’s traditional formal attire
• Kuri mukali
  • tristool used at wedding for the bride & the bridegroom

M

• Maalmatta poti
  • jewellery box made of bamboo/cane
• Maana
  • unit of measure (2 paawu)
• Mambata
  • vessel for pregnant women to eat rice
• Mamblocha
  • earthen lamp
• Mande Thuni
  • Mande-tuni is a gilted turban
• Mandh koll
  • stirrer for curd, used to fill gunpowder to rifles
• Mangaruva
  • earthen pot
• Mathh
  • sword used for firewood
• Methe  (Thalmethe)
  • Pillow
• Mimbaal
  • knife used for specially for cleaning fish ( Sometimes for other meat too )
• Morekuthi
  • butter churner

N

• Naengi uyyapaar
  • used to loosen mud
• Nalekerr
  • Rope to tie the cradle
• Noga
  • a thick stick put on top of the bulls neck to navigate them during irrigation period
• Nooputt ora
  • equipment made out of wood to make string rice hoppers (nooput)

O

• Oleke
  • baton/wooden rod for separating the husk from the rice
• Ole
  • Fireplace

P

• Paani kall
  • unit of measure (weight)
• Paath mora
  • sieve used to separate paddy and husk
• Paav kall
  • unit of measure (weight) 
• Pandi dhoni
  • Vessel to feed pigs
• Panemgathi
  • used to retrieve toddy 
• Pare
  • unit of measure (10 serr)
• Pombala potti
  • jewellery box made of bamboo/cane in two layers
• Pondhaya chanduka
  • wooden box used to store valuables like jewels and money
• Pondhi
  • fire ball or firing the gun or in a bow and arrow
• Pooliya
  • Pooliya is a small reed basket that is filled with rice, jaggery, coconut, betel leaves and milk in a small spouted pot (kindi) by Koravakarthi i.e. a responsible lady who oversees the affairs of the family.
• Puthari kuthi
  • article used during puthari
• Puthari pache
  • basket used during puthari season / used to store fresh paddy

S

• Sekala/ chekala
  • Vessel used to bake with steam
• Seerr
  • unit of measure

T

• Thaliya
  • Plate
• Thaye bollaange
  • land leveller
• Thennkala
  • vessel to breed honey bees (hive)
• Thokk
  • Thiri thokk
  • Kepp thokk
    • muzzel loading gun
  • Jood kolo thokk
    • double barrel gun

• Thombda

  • a round pad made from soft material, placed on the head to cushion the load while carrying heavy loads on head
• Thodang
  • it is worn by the bridegroom on his wedding which is made of silver.
• Thoorathand
  • walking stick
• Thott 
  • cradle
• Thookathra kall
  • weights to weigh anything
• Thuliya
  • paddy storage unit made of cane 
• Thupp kolaambi
  • spittoon 
• Thoorathra Thate
  • plate made of cane

U

• Udhi
  • rope used for hanging butter/ butter pot holder unit to store cardamom cow bells
• Ubbandi
  • Ubbandi refers to two flat wooden or stone structures with uniform openings through which wooden/bamboo poles are slid

V

• Vanali
  • vessel to sieve rice 
• Vastra or Mande thuni (Headdress)
  • Gilted turban

Y

• Yeela jaradi
  • apparatus used to separate cardamom and its flower
• Yala kuke
  • unit to store cardamom
• Yeth thate
  • cow bells