Mangaluru: On 21 February 2026, the School of Language and Cultural Studies at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, organized a one-day programme to mark International Mother Language Day. The theme of the event was “Mother Tongue is My Identity.”
The Chief Guest, Taranath Gatti, President of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, addressed the students and emphasized that the mother tongue forms the core of cultural identity. He noted that many Indian languages are on the verge of extinction and stressed the need to preserve them. He advised students to speak in their mother tongue with family members for at least an hour every day, as it strengthens both linguistic roots and family bonds.
The programme was presided over by Dr. Ronald Nazareth, Registrar of the University. In his address, he observed that although English is widely regarded as a global language, it is not the only medium of communication. He highlighted how countries like Japan and France have preserved their linguistic and cultural identity by prioritizing their native languages. Referring to a Japanese student who had visited the University under a student exchange programme, he remarked that learning in one’s mother tongue leads to deeper understanding and meaningful progress.
The inauguration commenced with vibrant traditional instrumental music. The University proudly represents students from 37 different mother tongues, and all 37 groups took a pledge to respect other languages while nurturing and enriching their own. The gathering reflected remarkable diversity, with students from South, North, and Northeast India, as well as participants from Japan and Sri Lanka. The cultural programme featured traditional group dances and songs, celebrating India’s rich regional heritage.
Greeshma Damodaran delivered the welcome address. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Mahabubali A. Nadaf, and the programme was compered by Navya. Dr. Mahalinga Bhat, Dean of the School of Language and Cultural Studies, along with faculty members Flora Castilian, Prashanthi, and Ratnamma, were present on the occasion. Around 150 participants contributed to the successful conduct of the event.