Daijiworld Media Network – Moodbidri (SP)
Moodbidri, Feb 19: Tulu Sahitya Academy president, Dr Paltady Ramakrishna Achar, has demanded for the opening of a separate department dedicated for Tulu studies in Mangalore University. “If Kuppam University can open a separate Tulu department, why can’t Mangalore University follow suit?” he questioned.
He was speaking after inaugurating the Mangalore University-level cultural competition, ‘Tulunada Siri Madipu’ organized at Mahavir College here on Friday February 18, under the aegis of Tulu Sahitya Academy, Tulukoota Moodbidri, and Mahavir College here.
“The government, through its department of technical education, should start diploma and certificate courses in Tulu. The educational institutions and Tulu organizations should bring pressure on the government in this direction. The academy has been doing its best to include Tulu in the eighth schedule of the constitution. The state government has written to the centre in this connection. Letters have been written to union ministers and MPs from the state to put their weight behind this effort,” he explained.
Principal of Bettampady government first grade college, Dr Varadaraj Chandragiri, noted that English has not remained a language now, but has grown into an industry in itself. He said that a number of languages are facing threats because of the people’s conception that English is the greatest language. He felt that use of Tulu has suffered because of the growth of technology. He wanted technology to be used for the growth of language, and to turn technology towards knowledge-oriented approach from its present form, which is industry-oriented.
Mahavir College principal, Prof Chandrashekhar Dixit, presided. MLA, K Abhayachandra Jain, and Tulu Sahtiya Academy registrar, Chandrahas Rai, participated as chief guests. Moodbidri Tulukoota president, Chadrahas Devadiga, and various other student leaders, and dignitaries were present.
Head of the department of Kannada, Madur Mohan Kalluraya, welcomed. Yasir proposed vote of thanks. Devi Aprana compered the programme.