Embrace and respect mother tongue: A call for language preservation

Former minister K. Jayaprakash Hegde emphasized the importance of nurturing respect for one’s mother tongue while also valuing other languages. He made these remarks at the closing ceremony of the two-day ‘Kundapra Kannada Festival-2024’ held at Palace Grounds.
Hegde announced that a grant has been allocated for the Kundapra Kannada Study Chair, which will soon be established at Mangalore University. He expressed hope that the chair would begin its work during the next Kundapra Kannada Festival.
He highlighted the unique identity of the undivided Dakshina Kannada district, noting that while there may be differences in language and culture, it is crucial to remember that unity prevails. He stressed the importance of teaching children their mother tongue first, as it forms the foundation for learning other languages.
Actor-director Raj B. Shetty shared his admiration for the Kundapura Kannada language, noting that its playful and light-hearted nature fosters a sense of equality among speakers. He praised the people of Kundapur for their resilience, attributing their positive outlook on life to their language and culture.
Basrur Mahalingeshwar Temple Administrator B. Appanna Hegde echoed this sentiment, urging families to speak their dialect at home to preserve their linguistic heritage. He emphasized that the survival of the language is essential for the survival of the community.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Byndur MLA Gururaj Gantihole, actress Priyanka Upendra, and various community leaders, all of whom underscored the importance of preserving and celebrating the Kundapura Kannada language and culture.