The clan of Kodavas in the Indian state of Karnataka have a long history of association with the game of field hockey.
This festival is recognised as one of the largest field hockey tournaments in the world and has been referred to the Guinness Book of Records.
Pandanda Kashi Ponnappa was a renowned hockey player represented Mysuru University at a very young age and well known teacher.
Some rules were framed which included that all the team members must belong to the same family (surname) and participate in a full hockey attire.
Even women could be a part of the team and it was left to the woman to decide whether she wants to represent the father's family or that of the husband's.
The opening and closing ceremonies are held with pomp and splendour and various dances and martial arts of Kodavas are demonstrated.
Over 2 lakh people came to watch the matches and experience the festival atmosphere at the Iychettira Hockey Cup and Palanganda family was the winners again.
Total of 225 teams participated in Madanda Hockey Fest-2013 and Anjaparavanda grabbed the victory against Strong Palanganda family.
Thathanda family also holds the credit of hosting 2nd edition of Kodava Cricket Cup in the year 2001.