Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Vadodara

Vadodara, Aug 17: With the aim of promoting Tulu language, culture, patriotism, and unity, the Tulu Sangha Baroda celebrated the 79th Independence Day of India with great enthusiasm and colour last Friday. The event was held under the guidance of its president Shashidhar B Shetty Guruvayanakere.

Held at India Bulls Mega Mall in Vadodara, Gujarat, the celebration stood out for being organised entirely “by the children and for the children” at the world’s first and only Tulu Chavadi constructed by the Sangha.

The children’s segment was presided over by Kiyosha Putran, with Yashika Putran as the chief guest. The day featured various engaging activities designed to honour the spirit of freedom and national pride.

Highlights included:

• Fancy dress competition featuring freedom fighter-themed costumes

• Patriotic singing competitions

• Speech and debate contests on topics such as:

o “Does loving your own language mean hating others?”

o “Is Operation Sindhoor the need of the hour?”

• Speeches were also delivered on Tulu Nadu’s cultural richness and heritage.

Balakrishna A Shetty, honorary general secretary, P Balachandra Gowda, honorary treasurer, and Madan Kumar Gowda Moodigere, chief organiser, along with Mahaveer Jain, Madhav Shetty, and Prameela Shetty, were among the members who actively participated.

A large number of children and women took part enthusiastically. Winners of various competitions were awarded prizes and congratulated for their performances. Elders present also offered words of wisdom and encouraged the young participants.

The event was organised by the Tulu Sangha Baroda Women’s Wing, led by Dr Sharmila M Jain (president) and Pallavi Shetty (secretary), with support from other women members.

The gathering featured members dressed in traditional Tulu attire, with Pallavi Shetty welcoming all guests on behalf of the Sangha. Siddhi Shetty introduced the dignitaries, while Shaurya Shetty, the secretary, delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the national anthem.