In a significant move to celebrate regional heritage, the Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) is set to feature visual displays highlighting the rich Tulu language and culture. The announcement was made by Kishore Alva, Executive Director and President of the Adani Group, which manages the airport.
Collaboration for Cultural Preservation
Kishore Alva revealed the plans during the ‘SU Paniyadi Tulu Nadu Chavadi’ event held at the Tulu Bhavan in Mangaluru. The initiative is a collaborative effort with the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy. Alva stressed the crucial need for a united front involving the government, local communities, and the private sector to protect and promote the ancient Tulu language and the unique culture of the Tulu Nadu region.
He expressed optimism, noting the growing interest in Tulu traditions from people across India and abroad. This global curiosity, according to Alva, is a hopeful sign for the language's future.
Honoring Mangaluru's History Through Photography
The event also served as a platform to unveil a collection of old photographs of Mangaluru, captured by senior photographer Yajna. Alva praised Yajna's work, stating that his documentation through the camera lens offers invaluable historical insights into the city's past.
In recognition of his contributions, Yajna was honored with the prestigious ‘Chavadi Thammana’ award by the Tulu Sahitya Academy during the function. The ‘SU Paniyadi Tulu Nadu Chavadi’ plaque was unveiled by Madan Mohan Nayak, founder of the Mudipu Tulu Nadu Siri Museum.
A Continuing Legacy at Tulu Nadu Chavadi
Subhash Chandra Basu, President of the Art Kanara Trust, spoke about the importance of Yajna's black-and-white photographs in preserving collective memory. Presiding over the event, Tharanath Gatti Kapikad, Chairman of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, confirmed that the installation of various photo series depicting Tulu culture will be an ongoing project at the ‘SU Paniyadi Tulu Nadu Chavadi’.
This airport project marks a concrete step towards bringing a slice of Tulu Nadu's vibrant heritage into the modern, public sphere, ensuring that travelers and visitors gain exposure to this distinctive cultural identity.
