Tulu Koota Kuwait Hosts Grand ‘Tulu Parba 2025’
Kuwait: Tulu Koota Kuwait (TKK), a distinguished cultural association under the aegis of the Indian Embassy, successfully presented its annual cultural festival, “Tulu Parba 2025,” today. The event, a vibrant celebration of the Tulu language and the rich cultural heritage of Tulunadu, took place at the Aspire Indian International School, Abbasiya, Kuwait. The festival showcased a diverse array of traditional performances, artistic presentations, and community engagement, embodying the spirit of Tulunadu.
The ceremony was graced by Shri Manas Raj Patel, First Secretary of the Indian Embassy of Kuwait, and Dr. Sathish Patla, a celebrated exponent of Yakshagana, who presided as Chief Guests. Their arrival was marked by a traditional “Poorna Kumbha Swagatha,” a ceremonial welcome symbolizing reverence and auspiciousness. Ms. Prapti Prashanth Shetty and Mr. Yadunath Alva served as the emcees for the program.
The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp by TKK Management committee members, TKK Advisors, and the Chief Guests, signifying enlightenment and positivity. This was followed by the release of the event Souvenir, a publication chronicling the association’s activities and accomplishments, designed by Mr. Manoj Kumar.
Mr. Roshan Prashant Quadras, Vice President of TKK, welcomed the guests, members, and attendees, emphasizing TKK’s dedication to preserving and promoting Tulu culture within the diaspora.
The cultural program began with a vibrant welcome dance performance by Dr. Vaishnavi Swaminathan and the Swasthika Dance Academy, setting the stage for the evening’s festivities.
Shri Manas Raj Patel, in his address, conveyed his congratulations to TKK, acknowledging the association’s pivotal role in preserving and promoting the Tulu language and culture abroad.
The Kshema Nidhi (Welfare Fund) initiative, a central element of TKK’s mission, was highlighted during the awards ceremony. TKK presented Merit-cum-Means Scholarships to two deserving students, reaffirming its commitment to supporting education. Additionally, 33 students with outstanding academic achievements in the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations for the academic year 2024-2025 were recognized with Merit Certificates and mementos.
Mr. Vijay Wilson, a dedicated Committee Member, was honored for his long-standing commitment and contributions to the association. Mr. Wilson expressed his appreciation to TKK for the recognition.
Tulu Parba 2025 also celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions to Tulu culture:
Yakshadruva Dr. Sathish Patla was felicitated for his exceptional contributions to the traditional art form of Yakshagana. Dr. Patla expressed his gratitude and extended his best wishes to TKK.
Mr. Sharath Ucchila, Mr. Sandeep Shetty Manibettu, and Mr. Prasanna Bailoor, known as the “Three Gems of Tulu Drama,” were jointly honored for their achievements in Tulu theatre. Mr. Prasanna Shetty Bailoor, speaking on behalf of the trio, thanked TKK for the recognition.
TKK recognized its sponsors with mementos and bouquets, with the felicitation ceremony led by Dr. Preeti P Shetty.
Mr. Shankar Shetty, President of Tulu Koota Kuwait, welcomed the dignitaries, artists, sponsors, members, and guests. He provided an overview of the association’s cultural and welfare activities throughout the year and expressed gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers, and members for their support.
The audience enjoyed a series of dance performances choreographed by Mrs. Spoorthi Shenoy Kamath, Ms. Prapti Prashanth Shetty, Mrs. Shobha Harish Bhandary, and Mrs. Alka Jitendra Rao, with assistance from Dr. Vanitha Vinod Kumar and Mrs. Bhargavi Nagendra Brahma.
A highlight of the evening was a Tulu Yakshagana performance, “Kaviratna Kalidasa,” led by Dr. Patla Sathish Shetty and his team. The performance was well-received, with Dr. Patla’s Bhagavatike captivating the audience.
An Audio-Visual Presentation showcased the TKK Silver Jubilee Memorial Merit Scholarship Scheme and TKK’s welfare activities in 2025.
The festival concluded with the Tulu Comedy Drama, “Oriye,” presented by the Kaup Ranga Taranga Team.
Mr. Srinath Prabhu, TKK Cultural Secretary, coordinated the event with support from TKK Committee members and volunteers. Mr. Jagadeeshwara Shanubhogue U, General Secretary, expressed gratitude to the sponsors and well-wishers. Appreciation was also extended to Wave Events & Rentals, Mr. Sathish Acharya & Team, Mr. Gokuldas Bhat, Mr. Ashraf & Team, Park Inn by Radison, Mr. Alban D’Souza & team, Mr. Ronald D’Souza & Mr. Aravind Bhandary, the chief guests, guest artists, choreographers, performers, TKK Committee members, and all contributors.