On October 16, Udupi Additional Deputy Commissioner Abid Gadyal underscored the profound significance of Tulu's recent recognition as an additional administrative language in Karnataka. Speaking at a valedictory ceremony for a Tulu conversation class and a subsequent dialogue held at Sarvodaya Hall in Manipal, Gadyal asserted that this decision by the state government honors not merely a language, but the entire Tulu culture. The event, organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in collaboration with the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, concluded a crucial initiative aimed at promoting Tulu linguistic proficiency.
Gadyal elaborated that the government's pivotal move now paves the way for constructive efforts to preserve and foster the Tulu language. He stressed the importance of teaching Tulu conversation as a key step in disseminating its reach among the populace.
Joining the discussion, Jayakara Shetty Indrali, President of the Udupi Tulu Koota, highlighted the academic advantages stemming from this recognition. He noted that it has created a conducive environment for Tulu's growth within educational institutions. Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Taranath Gatti Kapikad reflected on the historical journey, stating that the state government's acknowledgment is the culmination of sustained efforts to safeguard Tulu language and literature, tracing back to the era of the Basel Mission.
Presiding over the function, Professor Gayatri Prabhu, Director of the Manipal Institute of Social Sciences, Humanities & Arts (MISSHA), affirmed her institution's commitment. She stated that in the contemporary academic landscape, where local languages, indigenous knowledge, and regional cultures receive increasing priority, MISSHA places special emphasis on the study of Tulu.
The ceremony also saw the presence of Professor Dr. Nikethana, Tulu Academy Registrar Poornima, Member Convenor Santosh Shetty Hiriadka, and CKRA Coordinator Prithviraj Kavattaru. Students Bhagya Jyothi, Semon Thomas, Abhyuday, and Manasa S. presented a Tulu play, while Lt. Col. Raghavendra M.K., Dr. Anand V., Shriraksha Bhandarkar, and Sumit Kumar shared their experiences from the Tulu classes. Ashna Shetty extended the welcome, and Dr. Matangi Kumar coordinated the program.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi