Tulu Sangha at Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology
At Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology (AIET), cultural diversity is celebrated as a strength. Among the various student clubs and associations, the Tulu Sangha stands out as a vibrant community dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich heritage of Tulunadu. Tulu Nadu, known for its language, folklore, traditions, and values, finds its true reflection in this student-driven cultural forum. The Tulu Sangha not only nurtures regional pride but also provides a platform for students to showcase their talents, strengthen bonds, and build leadership qualities.
Tulu is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the south west part of the Indian state of Karnataka and also in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. The Tulu speaking region is often referred to as Tulu Nadu. The native speakers of Tulu are referred to as Tuluva or Tulu people.
Robert Caldwell, in his pioneering work on Comparative Grammar of the Dravidian or South-Indian family of languages, called this language "peculiar and very interesting”. According to him, "Tulu is one of the most highly developed languages of the Dravidian family. It looks as if it had been cultivated for its own sake. Tulu is the primary spoken language in Tulu Nadu, a region comprising the districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
Tulu Sangha at AIET will be a wonderful platform to exhibit Tulunadu talents and cultural importance. This flat form will be exploring and identifying the various ways to inculcate the values and useful spirits from the Tulunadu cultural practices to the present and future generation.
Objectives of Tulu Sangha
- To inculcate tulu culture in the young minds.
- To conduct tulu cultural programs.
- To give an opportunity to students and others to participate in tulu cultural activities.
- To give a platform to exhibit tulunadu special articles.
- To conduct studies on tulu culture.
Expected Outcomes
- Exposure to tulu culture
- Preservation of tulu cultural practices and articles
- Application of indigenous values and practices for the present world
- Active participation of the students and community people in cultural activities
Dr. Prameela Kolake
Head, Department of Mathematics,
AIET, Moodbidri
The Vision of Tulu Sangha
The vision of Tulu Sangha is to keep alive the cultural roots of Tulunadu while providing a creative platform for students to express their identity. Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology strongly believes that technical education must go hand in hand with cultural awareness. The Tulu Sangha ensures that students remain connected to their traditions even as they step into a global career.
Objectives of Tulu Sangha
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To promote the Tulu language, literature, and folklore among students.
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To conduct cultural events highlighting the richness of Tulunadu.
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To encourage unity, cooperation, and social responsibility through cultural engagement.
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To help students understand the importance of regional culture in national integration.
Activities of Tulu Sangha
The Tulu Sangha organizes a wide variety of programs throughout the academic year, ranging from cultural showcases to competitions and community service.
Annual Cultural Events
One of the highlights of the Sangha is its annual celebration of Tuluva traditions, which includes:
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Yakshagana Performances – Showcasing the classical folk theatre of Tulunadu.
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Tulu Folk Songs and Dances – Preserving local art forms.
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Drama and Skits – Based on stories and themes from Tulu culture.
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Traditional Sports – Like Kambala and Korikatta represented in creative forms.
Language and Literature Promotion
The Sangha organizes Tulu poetry recitations, essay competitions, and storytelling sessions, which encourage students to speak and write in Tulu. This fosters pride in their mother tongue and enhances cultural belonging.
Community Outreach
In alignment with the values of Alva’s Education Foundation, the Tulu Sangha also participates in social service initiatives. Students engage with local communities, organize awareness programs, and contribute to preserving rural traditions.
Role of Tulu Sangha in Student Development
Beyond cultural celebrations, the Tulu Sangha plays a vital role in student personality development.
Leadership and Teamwork
Students who participate in organizing events develop leadership qualities, event management skills, and team spirit. These are essential for their careers as future engineers and professionals.
Cultural Confidence
By performing in front of peers and faculty, students build confidence, communication skills, and cultural identity.
Bridging Generations
The Tulu Sangha ensures that younger students learn from seniors about traditions, making it a continuous cycle of cultural transmission.
Tulu Sangha and National Integration
Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology has students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The Tulu Sangha serves as a reminder that regional identities enrich the larger national fabric.
Celebrating Diversity
When students from non-Tulu backgrounds participate in Sangha events, it fosters mutual respect and understanding.
A Global Perspective
While students prepare for international opportunities in engineering and technology, the Tulu Sangha reminds them to remain grounded in their roots, making them global citizens with cultural values.
Notable Events Conducted by Tulu Sangha
Over the years, the Tulu Sangha has hosted remarkable events that have become popular within and outside the campus.
Yakshagana Evenings
Professional artists and student performers come together to stage Yakshagana prasangas, making it one of the most awaited cultural programs.
Tulu Drama Competitions
Student groups script and perform original plays in Tulu, highlighting social, cultural, and moral themes.
Tulunadu Food Fest
Traditional Tulu cuisines are displayed in a food festival organized by the Sangha, connecting students to the culinary heritage of the region.
Tulu Sangha’s Contribution to Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology
The success of the Tulu Sangha is aligned with the holistic mission of the institute.
Cultural Branding of the Institute
Through its cultural festivals and events, the Sangha enhances the reputation of the institute as one that values traditions along with modern education.
Student Engagement
The Sangha ensures high student participation, boosting engagement, creativity, and inclusivity on campus.
Lifelong Impact
Many alumni proudly remember their time in the Sangha as a formative experience that shaped their personalities and values.
Conclusion
The Tulu Sangha at Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology is not just a cultural club; it is a living bridge between tradition and modernity. By promoting Tulu language, art, and heritage, the Sangha ensures that students develop into professionals who are rooted in values while aiming for global excellence.
It continues to uphold the vision of Alva’s in fostering education that is not only academic but also cultural, ethical, and humanistic.
