Centre for Tulu Studies at Nitte DU
Nitte DU is located in the coastal belt of Karnataka, where Tulu is the predominant language. Tulu is recognized as the first offshoot of the Proto-South Dravidian languages. According to the ancient Tamil Sangam literature, the region is named after its language—Tulunadu. Tulunadu has long been a multilingual area, with Tulu serving as the lingua franca. In addition to Tulu, several other languages are spoken, including Koraga, Beary, Konkani, Kannada, Kodava, Malayalam, and their various dialects.
With a deep love for its mother tongue and a commitment to preserving indigenous knowledge and culture, a study centre was established at Nitte DU in 2014. This centre was created to spearhead a major project—the Tulu Cognate Dictionary. Over the years, the centre has undertaken numerous projects and hosted various programs to promote and preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the region.
Dr. K. R. Shetty Centre for Tulu Studies
Nitte DU renamed it's Centre for Tulu studies as the Dr. K. R. Shetty Centre for Tulu Studies, in honour of late Dr. K. R. Shetty, a renowned neurologist from Mangalore who envisioned the creation of Tulu Studies at the university. The centre's mission is to contribute to the academic growth of Nitte DU and to serve as a cultural hub dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the Tulu-speaking community. The centre aims to promote and safeguard the Tulu language and culture, advance research, celebrate Tulu festivals, foster cultural exchanges, and offer academic programs at various levels.
Objectives
Publications
Kannada Nudi Kalikegondu Kaipidi
Published: 1st edition 2010, 2nd edition 2016
English-Kannada-Tulu Dictionary for basic language learners
Published: 2018
Tulu Jnatipada Sanchaya
Published: 2019
A Handbook to Learn Tulu
Published: 2020
Tulu Geethanjali
Published: 2022
Tirukkural (in Konkani)
Published: 2023
Human Resources at Dr. K. R. Shetty Centre for Tulu Studies
The centre is staffed by a full-time coordinator, an expert in Tulu language, history, and cultural studies, who holds a Ph.D. in Tulu. Additionally, a project assistant is employed for the Kodava Project. A team of translators trained at this centre is working on Tamil to Tulu Translation projects with commitment and passion.
Gallery
Facilities
Academic Office Space
Dedicated workspace for staff and researchers
Cultural Museum
Showcasing curated artifacts of Tuluva culture
Research Library
Well-equipped with resources for Tulu Studies
Students, researchers and interested people from both within and outside the university and the university guests visit the centre to explore its collections and receive expert guidance.
In conclusion, the Dr. K. R. Shetty Centre for Tulu Studies is a vital institution in preserving and promoting Tulu and other local languages, culture, and heritage. Through its initiatives in research, education, and cultural exchange, the centre plays an essential role in the academic and cultural landscape of Nitte DU and beyond.