Ancient Indians are known for their valour and bravery. In every village and town, men practicing wrestling and archery was common sight. The role of Jetty community members in this is amazing. In fact they were the pioneers in setting up ‘Garadi Koodam’ all over the south to train youngsters in every field.

It was during the time of Wodeyars of Mysore that members of this community moved to Coimbatore via Hasanur and set up training centres. On their way, they stumbled upon statues of Sri Venugopala Swamy and Lord Lakshmi Narayana.

Being Vaishavites they brought these statues and constructed temples very near to their ‘Garadi Koodams’. Named Garadi temple, these two places were consecrated by Prathivaadhi Bayankaram Venkatachariar from Thirunarayanapuram.

The compact Garadi Koodam exists even today here. The deities – Lord Vishnu, Lord Hanuman, Lord Balarama and Goddess Durga still continue to shower Their blessings on the devotees.

Members of the Jetty community, not only kept themselves fit, but trained the youth and served the army of the local kings too. They also held annual festivals and showcased their valour.

Mohammad Ghazni’s invasion made the jetties move all over the country and wherever they went they made their mark by setting up Garadi Koodams.

Even today the jetties find prominence during the annual Dasara festival in Mysore.