The All America Tulu Association (AATA), a nonprofit organization based in the United States, has been working to preserve and promote the Tulu language and culture. As part of this effort, AATA recently completed its third annual Tulu script learning workshop, which concluded with a valedictory and certificate distribution ceremony on March 23, 2025. The event was held online via Zoom and saw participation from committee members, dignitaries, and students from different countries.
The workshop, which started with a lamp-lighting ceremony on January 19, 2025, attracted over 50 students from 11 countries, including India, Uganda, Singapore, Nigeria, Australia, the United States, Canada, and Gulf nations. Participants ranged from young children to senior citizens, showing the wide interest in learning the Tulu script.
Dr. Radhakrishna Bellur, a well-known Tulu script researcher, author, and professor, was the chief guest. In his speech, he explained how the Tulu script has evolved over time, the influence of other languages, and what the future holds for it. He also appreciated AATA’s efforts in spreading awareness about the script.
AATA’s vice president, Shirish Shetty, praised the contributions of Bhaskar Sherigar and Shreevalli Rai Martell in making Tulu script learning more accessible. He encouraged more people to take an interest in learning their heritage, stating that age should never be a barrier. Prasanna Lakshman, director from Boston, spoke about the revival of the Tulu language and how it is adapting to modern times while staying connected to its roots.
The success of the workshop was due in large part to the dedication of its teaching faculty. Instructors such as Prabhakar Bhat, Reshma Chettiar, Jagadish Kumar, Bhaskar Sherigar, and Shreevalli Rai Martell helped students complete their coursework and assignments. The workshop also included extracurricular activities, where students got the opportunity to showcase their talents in singing, art, and public speaking.
Dr. Jagadish Kumar, AATA’s ambassador from California, moderated the event, while treasurer Santosh Kumar Shetty from Atlanta welcomed the guests. The program started with a devotional Tulu song by Kalparthi Shubha Shri.
AATA president and chief instructor of the workshop, Shreevalli Rai Martell, provided a detailed report on the organization’s work. She mentioned that 50 students took part in the 10-week, 70-day course, out of which 30 successfully completed their final projects and received certificates. She encouraged the remaining students to continue their learning journey.
Bhaskar Sherigar, one of the founding presidents of AATA, spoke about the organization’s future plans and thanked all those who contributed to the event’s success. The event was hosted by C.K. Shetty from Muscat.
Many professionals settled in developed countries are voluntarily working for the betterment of Tulu Nadu through AATA. Their efforts are helping to keep the Tulu language and culture alive and pass it on to future generations.
