Media Release

Mangaluru, Jul 26: The 13th year Aati Dhonji Aitara programme was held in the traditional Tulu style by the Dharma Shastha Mandira Trust (R) of Kulshekar Jyotinagar.

The programme was inaugurated by Lakshman Kundar, administrative director of V4 News Channel, and his wife.

Speaking on the occasion, renowned orator, writer and Tulu researcher Dr Arun Ullal said that the Aati Dhonji Aitara programme is relevant from the perspective that the way our elders built their lives should not be forgotten by the present generation. He added that the Sri Dharma Shastha Mandira Trust is ideal and exemplary for fostering social coexistence at a religious centre.

Later, Praveen Tauro, marketing manager of Daijiworld Group of Media, said that the Sri Dharma Shastha Mandira Trust treating everyone equally and with love while leading the entire society in unity is praiseworthy.

The programme was presided over by Advocate Ram Prasad S, president of Sri Dharma Shastha Mandira Trust (R). He said that by organising the Aati Dhonji Aitara programme, efforts have been made for the past 13 years to preserve and promote our culture and pass it on to the next generation. This, he noted, makes a life of harmonious brotherhood possible.

The programme was shaped under the guidance of Dayananda Kattalasar, former president of the Tulu Academy and Trustee of the Mandira, who also compered the event.

Present on the dais were Mandira trustee Koosappa, Seva Samiti president Harish Jyotinagar, Matrumandali president Kamalakshi Mohan, and trust treasurer Harini Prem.

Trust general secretary Malingeshwara Bhat delivered the welcome address. Trustee Ashok Jyotinagar proposed the vote of thanks.

Dances and competitions reflecting Tulu culture were held by the children’s and women’s sections. The main attraction of the programme was the display and tasting of about 33 traditional dishes of Tulunadu. The public tasted various traditional delicacies prepared during the Aati month and expressed their appreciation.