Tuluve told TOI: “As part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, Jai Tulunad brought out a book called ‘Tulu Purpa’, a collection of 111 Tulu poems, written by 111 authors. The works are original and penned by emerging poets.”
“This attempt also acted as a platform for aspiring writers, in need of recognition. Once the book was released on August 15, last year, and, we sent copies to the PM, Union home minister, to all CMs including Karnataka CM. In the state, a copy of the book was sent to the home minister and the minister of Kannada and culture. However, the only person to reply so far has been Assam CM,” he said.
Assam CM stated in the letter dated July 20 that: “For the speakers of Tulu language, it is indeed a matter of great pride that their language is counted as one of the “Panchamaha-Dravida-Bhashas.”
“India is a land of linguistic and cultural diversity. The diversity of languages is one of the pillars of strength of India. The Constitution confers every individual the right to preserve and propagate his or her language and culture. Every language is a repository of wisdom and medium of pursuit of knowledge. Tulu language is considered one of the five major southern languages, therefore, there is no exception,” the CM stated in a letter.
“I firmly believe, a language as rich as Tulu must be accorded its rightful place. I am sure the hopes and aspirations of the Tulu speakers for their language shall be acknowledged and necessary actions initiated from all quarters in days to come,” Sarma stated.