Media Release

Udupi, Jul 17: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, today inaugurated 'Aati da Tulu Parba', a month-long cultural celebration dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Tulunadu. Held during Aati, the monsoon month that has traditionally marked the agrarian cycle in coastal Karnataka, the festival at MAHE brings together students, faculty, staff, members of the local community and international students to experience the region's language, customs, performing arts, cuisine and indigenous knowledge systems.

The celebrations will unfold starting July 18 across MAHE campuses in Manipal, Mangaluru and other constituent institutions, reflecting the University's commitment to preserving local cultural traditions while fostering intercultural dialogue within its diverse academic community.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE, and Dr Sharath K Rao, vice chancellor, MAHE, along with other senior officials, faculty members, and invited guests.

Inaugurating the month-long Dr HS Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE, said, "By celebrating Aati da Tulu Parba, MAHE reaffirms that a globally recognised university can remain deeply rooted in the culture of the land it calls home. The traditions, language and values of Tulunadu are a priceless legacy, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve and pass them on to future generations. This initiative is a meaningful step in that direction."

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sharath K Rao, vice chancellor, MAHE, said, "As a globally recognised institution rooted in the cultural landscape of coastal Karnataka, MAHE believes that education extends beyond classrooms. Events such as Aati da Tulu Parba enable our students, especially those from diverse regions and countries, to understand and appreciate the traditions of Tulunadu, promoting inclusivity, cultural awareness, and mutual respect."

Maj Gen (Dr) Mathews Jacob, pro vice chancellor - Health sciences, Dr Karunakar A Kotegar, pro vice chancellor -Technology and science, Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice chancellor Mangalore campus, Col (Dr) Sudheendra, pro vice chancellor Dubai campus, Dr Anand Venugopal, chief operating officer, MAHE, Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar and heads of various constituent units of MAHE were present on the occasion.

The month-long festival features a wide range of programmes celebrating the cultural landscape of Tulunadu, including traditional agrarian practices, folk performances, exhibitions, talks on local customs, culinary experiences, Tulu film screenings, Yakshagana performances and theatre. Faculty members, staff, students from India and abroad, and members of the public are expected to participate in the celebrations.

MAHE continues to strengthen its role as a global university that values not only academic excellence but also the preservation and celebration of the cultural heritage of the region in which it is rooted.