UDUPI — In a major breakthrough for the preservation of regional heritage, the prominent youth organisation Jai Tulunad (R.) officially launched the 'Mandara' digital font at the Udupi Press Club. Developed by Prahlad Tantry and unveiled by former Udupi MLA Raghupathi Bhat, the font aims to seamlessly integrate the ancient Tulu script into modern digital devices, marking a vital step toward securing a universal Unicode platform. 

Bridging Ancient Script and Modern Tech:
​The newly introduced 'Mandara' font is engineered to make the traditional Tulu script fully operational on contemporary computers and mobile phones. Designed to optimize digital publishing, the font provides robust support for book layouts, public banners, social media graphics, and striking cover-page presentations. Making the font entirely free for public use, Jai Tulunad intends to drive grassroots digitalization and everyday application of the script. 

Legislative Debate and Official Recognition:
The digital milestone arrives amid intensifying political momentum to elevate the status of the Tulu language within Karnataka. During a legislative session, coastal leaders—including Udupi MLA Raghupathi Bhat and Kaup MLA Lalaji Mendon—championed the use of Tulu in the State's Legislative Assembly. However, the proposal drew mixed reactions; Mangalore MLA U.T. Khader offered a contrasting view, pointing out potential communication challenges for assembly members unfamiliar with the regional tongue.

In tandem with these developments, the push for formal recognition has reached state administrative levels. Minister of Kannada and Culture Arvind Limbavali greenlit the submission of the script to secure a universally accepted Unicode platform.

Expanding Grassroots Movement for the 8th Schedule:
Concurrently, a comprehensive proposal has been advanced to include Tulu in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Online momentum continues to surge, fueled by widespread social media campaigns like #TuluToThe8thSchedule across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kasaragod.

According to the 2011 Census, Tulu is spoken by over 18.4 lakh people. While local educational institutions have begun incorporating the language into regional curricula, ultimate national acclaim and literary validation via the Sahitya Akademi remain dependent on formal central government clearance.