Media Release

USA, Apr 1: Across the distant shores of America, the All America Tulu Association (AATA) has been making remarkable strides in spreading, preserving, and nurturing the Tulu language and culture. This nonprofit organization has been gaining global recognition for its dedicated efforts. A testament to its success was the celebration event held on March 23, via Zoom, marking yet another milestone for AATA.

For the third consecutive year, AATA organized a Tulu script learning workshop. The event, which commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony on January 19, 2025, saw enthusiastic participation from dignitaries and learners. The workshop attracted students from across the world, including India, Uganda, Singapore, Nigeria, Australia, America, Canada, and Gulf countries, with over 50 students from 11 different nations registering to learn the Tulu script.

The valedictory and certificate distribution ceremony took place on March 23, 2025, in the presence of AATA’s committee members, distinguished guests, and students. The event was graced by the presence of Radhakrishna Bellur, a renowned Tulu script researcher, author, and professor, as the chief guest. In his insightful speech, he shed light on the evolution of the Tulu script, its linguistic influences, and future prospects. His words went beyond a speech—they served as a beacon of knowledge for all attendees. He also commended AATA’s unwavering commitment and contributions to promoting the Tulu script.

AATA’s vice president, Shirish Shetty, applauded the leadership of Bhaskar Sherigar and Shreevalli Rai Martell, who have played a crucial role in making Tulu script learning more accessible. He emphasized that learning has no age limits or restrictions and encouraged everyone to take an interest in preserving their cultural heritage.

Director Prasanna Lakshman from Boston highlighted how the Tulu language and script are undergoing a revival, adapting to modern changes while staying rooted in tradition. He elaborated on AATA’s vision and mission and extended his best wishes for the organization’s future endeavors.

A crucial component of any workshop is its faculty, whose guidance plays a pivotal role in students’ learning. The dedicated team of instructors—including Prabhakar Bhat, Reshma Chettiar, Jagadish Kumar, Bhaskar Sherigar, and Shreevalli Rai Martell—ensured that students completed their coursework, assignments, and projects on time. Notably, the workshop witnessed participation from individuals aged 8 to 82, demonstrating the universal appeal of learning the Tulu script. Many students also showcased their talents in extracurricular activities such as singing, art, and public speaking, adding a rich cultural dimension to the event.

The program’s moderator, Jagadish Kumar, all America Tulu Association ambassador from California, provided event guidelines, while treasurer Santosh Kumar Shetty from Atlanta welcomed the guests. The event began with a devotional Tulu song by Kalparthi Shubha Shri, setting a spiritual tone.

AATA president and chief instructor of the workshop, Shreevalli Rai Martell, presented a comprehensive report on AATA’s activities and achievements. She praised the dedication of the 50 students who participated in the 10-week, 70-day intensive course, highlighting that 30 students successfully completed their final projects and received certificates. She encouraged the remaining students to continue their learning journey and expressed her joy that the valedictory event provided a platform for students to showcase their extracurricular talents.

One of AATA’s founding presidents, Bhaskar Sherigar from Boston, shared insights into the organization’s upcoming projects and expressed gratitude to the guests, members, students, parents, and all those who contributed to the event’s success. The program was expertly hosted by C K Shetty from Muscat.