"Tulu script lost its royal patronage and faded into the background, but now it is our duty to bring it back into active usage." — Ashok Adyanthaya

BELMANU — In a dedicated effort to preserve and promote regional heritage, the Jai Tulunad (R.) Central Committee, in collaboration with Vanjarakatte English Medium School, Bola, Karkala, successfully hosted the "Bale Tulu Lipi Kalpuga" (Come, Let's Learn Tulu Script) workshop on Saturday, October 19, 2024.

The educational and cultural event drew enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and local dignitaries, focusing on teaching the foundational elements of the traditional Tulu script to the younger generation.

Dignitaries Stress Importance of Mother Tongue
The workshop was formally inaugurated by Mr. Ashok Adyanthaya, Managing Trustee of Shantiniketan Charitable Foundation and Manager of Vanjarakatte English Medium School. Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. Adyanthaya emphasized the historical significance of the script and the urgent need for revival.

Presiding over the function, school administrator Mr. Akshay Adyanthaya underscored that modern education should never come at the expense of one's native roots.

"Children will continue to learn English as they grow, but if they fail to learn Tulu now, they may never learn it later," Mr. Akshay stated proudly. "Even though ours is an English medium school, we give primary priority to the Tulu language here."

Guest of honor Mr. Jagadish Achar, honorary advisor to the school, urged that teaching the Tulu script must go hand in hand with imparting cultural values to children.

Collaborative Community Effort
The event was marked by strong support from prominent figures of the Jai Tulunad organization and the local school administration:

Key Speeches & Introductions: Mr. Mahesh Kulal Beladi, coordinator of the Jai Tulunad central executive committee, delivered the keynote address outlining the workshop's vision.

Faculty & Coordination: School teacher Ms. Ankita managed the event proceedings, while script instructor Mr. Deepak Shetty Beladi and retired teacher Mr. Satish led the hands-on training sessions for the students.

Distinguished Guests: The inauguration was graced by Jai Tulunad leader Mr. Uday Uday Poojari Taripadiguttu, founding committee member Mr. Kiran Tuluve, supporter Mr. Nishil Shetty, and Vanjarakatte English Medium School Headmistress Mrs. Jayashree Prakash Poojari.

The workshop concluded with a vibrant interactive session where students eagerly practiced writing characters of the ancient Tulu script, marking a hopeful milestone for the preservation of coastal Karnataka's linguistic identity.