Mangalore witnessed a significant call to action on Saturday as Prof. B. A. Viveka Rai, the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy's inaugural president, urged the institution to extend its mission beyond language preservation and actively contribute to improving the lives of the Tulu people. His remarks came during the release ceremony for 'Tuluva Jala Poli' and 'Nalaidh Nalurugu' at the Tulu Sahitya Avalokana 'Bennidha Panidompa' program, held at Sirichavadi Hall, Tulu Bhawan.
Prof. Viveka Rai emphasized that Tulu is fundamentally the 'language of life' for its speakers. While acknowledging the crucial responsibility of safeguarding the language, he highlighted the inherent capabilities of Tulu individuals across various fields. He noted that over 40 distinct small communities consider Tulu their mother tongue, underscoring the collective duty to preserve this linguistic heritage.
Reflecting on the Academy's origins, Prof. Viveka Rai spoke of the immense pride Tulu people hold for the organization and acknowledged the foundational efforts of numerous seniors in its early days.
At the same event, renowned Linguist Pade Kallu Vishnu Bhatt formally released the two works by Prof. B. A. Viveka Rai — 'Tulu Jala Poli' and 'Nalaidh Nalurugu' — which are part of the broader 'Bennidha Panidompa' collection. Bhatt also provided an introduction to the publications. Prof. Viveka Rai explained that these volumes offer extensive details and insights into the life, culture, and linguistic practices of the Tulu Nadi region's inhabitants.
Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Taranath Gatti Kapikad presided over the function. Distinguished guests included Karnataka Bari Sahitya Academy President Umar U. H., retired principal and former Tulu Academy member Gunapala Kadamba, along with Academy members Akshaya R. Shetty, Babu Koraga Pangala, Udyavara Nagesh Kumar, and Kumbra Durga Prasad Rai.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK