Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 25: Srinivas University city campus, Pandeshwar, celebrated "Aatidonji Dina – A celebration of Tulunadu" with great enthusiasm to promote the rich language, culture, traditions, and culinary heritage of Tulunadu. The programme was presided over by Dr A Srinivas Rao, chancellor of Srinivas University.
Addressing the gathering, Dr A Srinivas Rao said that Tulu is one of the sweetest languages—beautiful to listen to and equally delightful to speak. He stated that this year's Aatidonji Dina celebration was organized with the objective of creating awareness about the Tulu language and its rich cultural heritage among students and the public.
He emphasised that the programme highlighted the significance of the Aati month and its traditional delicacies, and said that the importance of Aati should reach people across the country. Recalling the University's cultural initiatives, he added that for the past 12 years, Srinivas University has been organizing Huli Vesha during Krishna Janmashtami to preserve and promote the region's traditional art forms and culture.
The chief guest, Taranath Gatti Kapikad, president, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, appreciated the University's initiative and said that programmes like Aatidonji Dina help today's younger generation understand the lifestyle, traditions, and values of earlier generations. He stressed the importance of educating students about traditional farming practices and remarked that the Tulu language is the very identity of Tulunadu's culture. He expressed hope that Srinivas University would continue its efforts in preserving and passing on the knowledge and heritage of Tulunadu to future generations.
Vijayalakshmi R Rao, trustee member, board of governors, Srinivas University, said that the exhibition of traditional household articles and cultural artefacts reminded her of her grandfather's home and brought back many cherished childhood memories.
Prof Er A Mitra S Rao, trustee member, board of governors, Srinivas University, shared that although she is not originally from Mangaluru, she wholeheartedly embraced the culture of the region after her marriage. She expressed her love for Mangalurean traditional cuisine and said that the Tulu language sounds like a melodious song whenever she hears people speaking it.
The programme was attended by Meghana S Rao, board of governors member, Srinivas University; Samna S Rao, board of governors member, Srinivas University; Dr Ajay Kumar, development registrar; Dr Venkatesh Amin, dean, Institute of Management & Commerce; Dr Trishala Noronha, dean, Institute of Physiotherapy; Prof B Prashanth Prabhu, dean, Institute of Hotel Management & Tourism; Dr Padmanabha C H, dean, Institute of Education; and Dr Pranjali Mahtre, dean, Institute of Occupational Therapy, among other faculty members and students.
Prof Shilpa proposed the introductory remarks. Prof Sushmitha S Kotian welcomed the gathering. Dr Shakeela proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was compered by Prof Prajna Odilnala and Prof Revathi.
As part of the celebration, students and faculty showcased the unique traditions of Tulunadu through traditional food stalls, cultural exhibits, displays of ancient household articles, and cultural performances, offering participants an immersive experience of the region's rich heritage.