Mangaluru, August 3, 2025: Dr. YN Shetty, a distinguished folklorist and ex-member of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, advocated for the creation of a specialized 'Documentation Unit' under the Tulu Academy's purview during an event at Tulu Bhavana in Urwa Store on Saturday. The aim is to meticulously preserve the abundant cultural legacy of Tulunadu. His plea emerged at the launch of the documentary titled "Aatida Bhutaradhane," directed by Ramesh Manjeshwar. Dr. Shetty underscored the critical importance of chronicling unique cultural practices such as Bhuta worship, Naga worship, and the traditional theatrical form, Yakshagana, to ensure their continuity and appreciation by future generations.
Preserving Tulu Heritage
Dr. Shetty emphasized the urgent need for thorough documentation of Tulu culture, including its oral traditions such as Paaddana, Nudigattu, and Madipu, which are crucial to the linguistic and cultural identity of the Tulu community. He suggested that the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy should not limit its efforts to preserving these traditions but also seek out additional records from various sources. During the documentary release event hosted by the same institution, a symposium took place where experts delved into the evolving complexities of Bhuta worship, which was traditionally a simple practice but has grown in intricacy over time, as per observations made by senior ritual performers.
Insights on Bhuta Worship
Subrahmanya Bhat KJ, the Gurikara of the revered Daiva temple in Peruvayi, enlightened the gathering on the pivotal role of Bhuta worship during the auspicious month of Aati. This ancient practice is deeply rooted in the Tulu culture and is performed with the intention of safeguarding the bountiful harvests and averting post-harvest adversities. Contrary to some prevailing myths, M.K. Kukkaje, a veteran in the agricultural sector, set the record straight by revealing that Daiva worship was never confined exclusively to the Aati month. The misconception arose from the historical constraints of poverty and resource scarcity that often curtailed such practices.
The enlightening session was part of the ongoing efforts by the Tulu Sahitya Academy, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of Tulu literature and traditions. The President of the academy, Taranath Gatti Kapikad, reiterated the organization's unwavering commitment to documenting these unique customs for the enrichment of future generations.
The event drew an array of distinguished attendees, including the erudite retired headmaster, Narayan Gatti Mali, fervent Daiva worshippers Anand Nalike and Aitappa Arikkadi Kumbale, as well as the venerable Peruvayi Guthu elder, Rajendranath Rai. The assembly was warmly welcomed by the academy's registrar, Poornima, while members Kumbra Durgaprasad Rai and Santosh Rai Hiriyadka skillfully orchestrated the proceedings.
This significant cultural event underscores the Tulu Sahitya Academy's tireless work in ensuring that the profound heritage of the Tulu community is not lost to the sands of time, but rather is meticulously recorded and transmitted to those who will carry its legacy forward.
Keywords: Tulu Academy, documentation unit, Dr. YN Shetty, Tulu culture, Bhuta worship, Yakshagana, Tulu heritage, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, Mangaluru, Aati festival, Paaddana, cultural preservation