Mangaluru: A long-pending demand of the Tuluva community may soon take shape, with the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission proposing the establishment of a dedicated Tuluvas Bhavan in Bengaluru and Udupi. The proposal has been submitted to chief minister Siddaramaiah, aiming to create a vibrant hub for preserving and promoting Tulu language, culture, and heritage.In a letter to the chief minister, commission member S Mohanadass Hegde said that the Tuluva community, spread across coastal districts like Mangaluru and Udupi, as well as urban centres like Bengaluru, has long felt the need for a unified platform. The proposed bhavan is envisioned as a multi-dimensional space that will not only safeguard cultural identity, but also open avenues for education, skill development, and entrepreneurship.The plan places strong emphasis on cultural preservation, proposing museums, archives, and performance spaces dedicated to Tulu literature, Yakshagana, and other folk traditions. It also outlines initiatives in education and research, including scholarships, the establishment of a dedicated Tulu research institute, and incubation centres to support artisans, fisheries, and coastal entrepreneurship.Beyond culture and education, the bhavan is expected to function as a community anchor, hosting public events, festivals, and civic awareness programmes to strengthen social cohesion. An advisory cell has also been proposed to liaise with the state govt and advocate for the interests of the Tuluva community.The proposal details a phased implementation plan, governance framework, and the integration of technology-driven initiatives to ensure the bhavan evolves into a nationally recognised landmark. If approved, the Tulu Bhavan could emerge as a dynamic engine for cultural preservation and socio-economic empowerment, reflecting Karnataka’s commitment to inclusivity and regional diversity, said Hegde.
