Jai Tulunad (R) Kasaragod Unit organized a vibrant Marapandi Aati cultural program at the Billava Samaja Seva Sangha premises in Karandakkad, Kasaragod. The event celebrated the rich Tulu traditions associated with the sacred Aati month.

The day began with prayers at the Sri Narayana Guru Mandira. The program was inaugurated by Shri Raghu K. Meepuguriya, President of the Billava Seva Sangha, by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

Tulu Speech Competition Highlights:
In the children’s Tulu speech contest:
Junior Division: Dheya Varkadi won first place, Sanskrithi Kumble secured second, and Darshit K. R. came third.
Senior Division: Nimisha S. Battampare won first place, Drishya D. Battampare second, and Varsha S. Battampare third.

Valedictory Ceremony:
The closing ceremony was presided over by Smt. Kushalakshi V. Kulal Kanvatirtha, President of Jai Tulunad (R) Kasaragod Unit.

Chief guest Shri Raghu K. Meepuguriya appreciated the opportunity to host the event and highlighted the collective responsibility of preserving the Tulu language, traditions, and culture for future generations. He praised the meaningful efforts of Jai Tulunad toward cultural revival.

Tulu writer and Kasaragod Committee member Umesh Saliyan Shiriya delivered an informative talk about the traditions of the Aati month, including the elder generation’s lifestyle, food habits, beliefs, health practices, and nature’s role during the season.

Guest Speeches:
Renowned Yakshagana and stage artist Vasu Bayar emphasized the need for Tulu to be recognized as a regional language and included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He acknowledged the role of the Tulu language and community support in his career and appreciated Jai Tulunad’s free Tulu script education initiative.

Uday Poonja TaripadiGuttu, President of the Jai Tulunad (R) Organisation, spoke about the historical depth of the Tulu language and script. He expressed concern over how government offices and schools discourage the use of Tulu, which has resulted in the decline of the language. He called for unity among Tuluvas to preserve their identity and culture.

Social Concerns:
In the concluding address, the President brought attention to issues faced by Tulu-speaking communities where caste names are incorrectly printed on OEC certificates. This has prevented students from accessing government benefits. She urged authorities to correct the records and called on all Tuluvas to stand united beyond caste lines.

Cultural Honours and Festivities:
Special contributors such as Ashwini Rai Karinje for her rendition of traditional Paad-dana and Tulu script instructor Vinod Prasad Rai were honored during the event. Public performances like Pada Rangita and Sabi Savalu added charm to the gathering. Attendees enjoyed a traditional Aati meal to conclude the celebrations.

Organizational Roles:
The event began with a prayer by children of the Billava Seva Sangha. Harikanth Kasaragod, Secretary of the Zone Committee, delivered the welcome address, and Praveesh Kulal Beerikunja, Vice President, gave the vote of thanks.

Judges Yajnesh and Prema M. Kanvatirtha supported the competitions. Volunteers included Uttam, Jai Tulunad (R) Kudla Unit Joint Secretary Chandrashekar Tuluve Devipura, Treasurer of Jai Tulunad (R) Rajashree Chandrashekar Devipura, Founding Committee Member of Jai Tulunad (R) Kiran Tuluve, Member Shivani Prakash Shetty Kenjar, Member Savita Karkera Kavoor, Joint Organizing Secretary of Jai Tulunad (R) Chithrakshi Theggu, and Member Naveen Chipparu. The event was compered by Vice President of Jai Tulunad (R) Vinod Prasad Rai Karinje and Member Srinivas Alva.