Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Nov 3: “There are many instances, where languages face extinction as they are not used to communicate or are not promoted. Hence, there is an immense need to promote Tulu language. 'Tulunadochchaya -2017' which will be held on December 23 and 24 at Pilikula is the right programme to promote our culture and linguistic essence,” said district-in-charge minister Ramanath Rai.

He was speaking after inaugurating the office of Tulunadochchaya – 2017 at Marnamikatte on Thursday, November 2.

“Languages play a key role in uniting people. The coastal Karnataka has a great influence of the Tuluva culture. People from different religions and mother tongues speak Tulu to connect locally. Conferences like Tulunadochchaya will help to strengthen bonds and promote Tulu language,” said Rai.

Honourary President of Tulunadochchaya Frank Fernandes agreed with Rai stating that Tulu binds people of coastal Karnataka. Though Tulu is an ancient language, it is alive because of its usage, he said.

He further added that when people communicate in Tulu, religious barriers are forgotten. The motto of the conference is to bring people together and dispel inhibitions and barriers.

Tulunadochchaya organising committee secretary Dr Rajesh Alva in his introductory speech gave a brief insight into Tulunadu culture and the evolution of Tulu language.

MCC Mayor Kavita Sanil, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President A C Bhandary, Harikrishna Punaroor, Jayaprakash Bhandary, Dugganna Savanth Aras and other dignitaries were present.

Various Tulu organizations such as 'Vishwa Tuluvere Ayano Koota', Dr Shivaram Karanth Nisarga Dhama, Pilikula are helping in organising of Tulunadochchaya -2017 conference in December.