"India" has no historical significance, "Bharat" will foster stronger patriotism: Araga Gyanendra
Amidst ongoing debates and controversies surrounding the name "India," former Home Minister and MLA Araga Gyanendra has offered his perspective on this issue. He stated that the name "India" lacks historical significance and was introduced by the British who struggled to pronounce "Bharat," the nation's traditional name. According to Gyanendra, the name itself is not of paramount importance.
Addressing the topic of renaming the country, Gyanendra spoke in Tirthahalli, emphasizing the need to rectify changes imposed during the colonial and Mughal eras and to reaffirm the nation's cultural identity as "Bharat." He pointed out that several cities have already undergone name changes to better reflect their cultural and historical significance, such as Madras becoming Chennai, Bangalore transforming into Bengaluru, and Coorg adopting the name Kodagu, all driven by sentimental and heritage-based considerations.
Highlighting the common chant of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" as opposed to "India Mata Ki Jai," Gyanendra expressed his support for changing the name to "Bharat." He argued that such a change would foster a stronger sense of attachment and pride towards the nation.
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Udupi: Inaugural edition of Tulunad Conclave 2025 to be held on April 13
Udupi (Katpadi): The inaugural edition of Tulunad Conclave – 2025, organized by the Tulu Cultural Research Foundation, is all set to take place on April 13 at the Saptapadi Auditorium, Vishwanatha Kshetra, Katpadi.
The one-day conclave, running from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, is a landmark effort to preserve and promote the rich legacy of the Tulu language, literature, and cultural heritage among future generations.
Scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and language activists from across the Tulu-speaking belt—from Kasaragod to Udupi—will gather for in-depth discussions on various aspects of Tulu identity, including its folklore, literary tradition, and the long-standing campaign for official recognition of Tulu.
The foundation, which has been at the forefront of promoting the Tulu script, will also unveil several new books written in Tulu script during the event. This follows the successful publication of six Tulu-script books by the foundation in the previous year.
A major highlight of the conclave will be the official launch of Mallige, a Unicode-compatible ASCII Tulu font developed by Prahlad P. Tantri, along with a dedicated Tulu Unicode keyboard layout.
In an effort to unify efforts for Tulu’s constitutional recognition, a high-profile panel discussion will bring together political leaders, cultural figures, and language advocates. The panel will deliberate on strategic approaches to strengthen the Tulu identity at political, institutional, and grassroots levels.
The cultural richness of Tulunad will also be on vibrant display. From 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the audience will be treated to traditional Tulu cultural performances, including a much-anticipated act by the acclaimed Kemmanu Sisters.
A special segment titled Tulunadu Javanere Samavesha (Youth Conclave of Tulunad), presided over by Mahi Mulki, President of the Tulu Cultural Research Foundation, will focus on engaging the younger generation in the Tulu movement.
A Tulu book fair will run throughout the day, and the foundation will also honor individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Tulu language and culture with its prestigious Sadhana Puraskara.
Adding to the significance of the day, the official website of the Tulu Cultural Research Foundation will be launched, providing a digital platform to support its ongoing initiatives.
