Udupi, Oct 14 (The Hindu): Bhaskarananda Kumar, president of Tulu Koota, said on Tuesday that Tulu should be spoken in Government offices in coastal districts.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Tulu learning classes, organised by the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy here.

Dr. Kumar said that every language, including Tulu, had its own uniqueness and beauty. It was essential to ensure that Tulu was spoken in Government offices such as Deputy Commissioner’s Office and taluk office. This would go a long way in serving the cause of Tulu, he said.

Palthady Ramakrishna Achar, chairman of the academy, said that knowledge of more than one language was essential to widen the understanding of various cultures.Knowledge of local language helped a person in understanding and acquainting with the area quickly. Languages had their ups and downs.

There was a time when French was the “lingua franca” of Europe and other parts of the world. But now English was dominating the world, Mr. Achar said.

Scholar Gananath Yekkar welcomed the gathering. Duggappa Kajekar compered the programme.

Registrar of the academy B. Chandrahasa Rai proposed a vote of thanks. Principal of Government Pre-University College Ramesh and president of Tulu Abhivridhdhi Samsthe Vasanth Shetty Bellare were present.