Media Release
USA, Oct 23: The Global Alliance of Tulu Associations (Global Tuluva) inaugurated its Tulu Lipi and Tulu speaking classes for 2026 through a virtual ceremony on Sunday, October 18, bringing together Tulu scholars, educators, and language enthusiasts from across the world.
The Tulu speaking course is being conducted in collaboration with the Bunts Association of North America (BANA), with the aim of promoting the Tulu language among children, younger generations, and language enthusiasts worldwide.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by renowned Tulu scholar G V S Ullal, eminent scholar and cultural ambassador Mallika Ajith Shetty, and BANA president Suresh Shetty. The function was presided over by Global Tuluva founder Shreevalli Rai Martell.
'Bale Tulu Paterga' textbook released
A major highlight of the ceremony was the release of 'Bale Tulu Paterga' (??? ???? ???????), a Tulu-speaking course textbook authored by Shreevalli Rai Martell. The book was formally released by Mallika Ajith Shetty.
Designed for beginners, the textbook aims to make conversational Tulu simple, practical, and accessible, particularly for children and families living outside Tulunadu. It provides structured lessons to help learners develop confidence in everyday Tulu communication.
The publication carries the blessings of Sri Odiyur Swamiji, a foreword by Sadhvi Mathanandamayi, and an afterword by Shantaram V Shetty of Team Ilesa. The textbook will be used as a learning resource in Global Tuluva's online speaking classes.
Inaugural ceremony and international participation
The ceremony commenced with a prayer rendered by Suresh Poonja from Sydney, Australia, followed by the welcome address delivered by Prabhakar Bhat from the United States.
Chandrahas K Shetty from Oman moderated the function, while Shubhashri from Bengaluru served as the master of ceremonies.
Saritha Arun and Shrutha Shetty from the United Kingdom introduced the distinguished guests. The vote of thanks was delivered by Shrutha Shetty, acknowledging the contributions of the guests, teachers, BANA, Team Ilesa, organisers, volunteers, and participants.
The teaching team includes Prabhakar Bhat (USA), Chandrahas K Shetty (Oman), Suresh Punja (Sydney), Shrutha Shetty and Saritha Arun (UK), and Shubhashri (Bengaluru), along with Shreevalli Rai Martell.
Three online batches for global learners
To accommodate learners across different time zones, Global Tuluva has organised two Tulu speaking class batches and one Tulu Lipi class, each running for ten consecutive weeks.
The global Tulu speaking batch is scheduled every Sunday from 6 am to 7 am (Florida time), accommodating students from India, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
A separate United States evening batch, especially for children and families, begins on Saturday, October 24, from 7 pm to 8 pm (Florida time).
The Tulu Lipi class will also commence on Saturday, October 24, at 11 am (Florida time), introducing learners to reading and writing the Tulu script.
Global Tuluva's worldwide initiatives
Founded by Shreevalli Rai Martell, the Global Alliance of Tulu Associations connects Tulu communities and leaders across 23 countries, working collectively to preserve the Tulu language, literature, script, and cultural heritage.
Its website, www.globaltuluva.com, features Tulu educational resources, literature, cultural programmes, riddles, and digital learning tools. A notable initiative includes developing stories in Tulu, Kannada, and English with accompanying audio recordings, helping new learners improve their language skills.
Global Tuluva also publishes monthly reports highlighting its educational and cultural activities and encourages Tulu enthusiasts worldwide to become members of its digital platform.
The inauguration comes at a historic time following the Karnataka government's September 2026 decision recognising Tulu as an additional official language for Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
While welcoming this milestone, Global Tuluva continues to advocate for the inclusion of Tulu in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Through international collaboration, volunteer-driven education, and digital initiatives, Global Tuluva remains committed to ensuring that the Tulu language continues to flourish among future generations.
"Pride in Roots, Strength in Unity" remains the guiding spirit of the organisation.
Website: www.globaltuluva.com
Inaugural function video: