Digital formats could bring Tulu closer to children: Taranath Gatti Kapikad

Mangaluru: Taranath Gatti Kapikad, President of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, emphasized that presenting the Tulu language in digital formats will make it more accessible to children and help spread the language across the globe. He added that providing children with large literary texts might not spark their interest in Tulu. Instead, age-appropriate literature should be given to create awareness about the language among younger generations.

He was speaking at the release of Tulu children’s songs at the Shri Krishna Sabha Bhavan in Kadri Mallikatte on Thursday. These songs were composed by Raghu Idkidu, with music direction by Elluru Srinivas Rao, and produced, directed, and edited by Vidya U, featuring performances and vocals by children.

Kapikad highlighted that elements of Tulu Nadu such as hills, rivers, and fields are well-known to adults but need to be introduced to children. By incorporating children into these visual representations, it would help them connect with the land and language, potentially fostering interest in Tulu.

Renowned poet and author Radhakrishna K. Uliyattadka, who was the chief guest, noted that there has been a lack of children’s songs in Tulu and stressed the urgent need to pass on the language to the younger generation in such creative ways.

Principal of Govinda Dasa College, Surathkal, Prof. P. Krishnamurthy, also spoke at the event, expressing the importance of promoting Tulu through education.

Music director Elluru Srinivas Rao and Vidya U, who handled production, direction, and editing, were present. Children who performed and acted in the songs were also part of the program.

Raghu Idkidu hosted the event, which was organized by Thunder Kids Mangaluru and Vidya Prakashana.