Kodagu: Though liquor is an integral part of the District’s tradition and culture, a Hobali in North Kodagu, located in the Western Ghats, is unique and has become ideal for the country.
The Shanthalli Hobali situated in the Pushpagiri region near Mallalli falls on the border of Kodagu – Hassan – Dakshina Kannada Districts have no liquor shops within its limits for decades. This Hobali centre is situated just 10 kms from Taluk Centre in Somwarpet consisting of Shanthalli, Tholurshettalli and Bettadalli Gram Panchayats (GP).
The Hobali has a population of 9,245 people of which women are more than men. Many homestays came up in the Hobali limits following the increase in tourism activities but the GPs decided not to give permission for liquor shops or bars.
A village elder S. G. Medappa said that about a decade back a villager sought permission to open a liquor shop in the village but the GP management did not issue No Objection Certificate (NOC). Another elder D. M. Poovaiah of Tholurshettalli said that during the 60s and 70s, few villagers indulged in making country liquor. They quit the illicit liquor business after the village development committee imposed heavy fines. He said five years back 2 to 3 Kirana shop owners were caught while selling liquor. The Excise Department officers booked them following tips provided by villagers.
In recent years, Shanthalli Hobali has been attracting a large number of tourists as it is near Bisle Ghat, Mallalli falls, and Pushpagiri hills. The famous Mandalpatti near Madikeri is just 22 kms from here as the authorities laid a motorable road at an estimated cost of Rs. 7.5 Crore recently. Pilgrim Town Kukke Subrahmanya is 48 kms from here.
Everyday at least 300 to 400 tourists visit Mallalli falls, and during weekends the number increase to 2000 to 3000. Though the demand for liquor has increased, the GP managements are united to keep away liquor.
The Hobali has more than 80 per cent population that belongs to the Vokkaliga Gowda community and most of them are small farmers. This is a unique Hobali in State that follows the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi who dreamt of a liquor-free society.
