Mangalore :  “Siri Thuppe” -Bequest 2013, a two-day national level inter-collegiate talent’s competition was inaugurated today at Besant Women’s College, Mangalore. Mr. Kadri Navaneeth Shetty, chief manager, RMD, The Times of India, Mangalore Was the guest of honor.

The various competitions – spread across the faculties – are conducted under the sub-theme of the event ‘Siri Thuppe’, an attempt by the Besant Institutions to revive the traditions of a bygone era for the present day generation. Thuppe is a stack of harvested corn in the courtyard of every house and once was a familiar sight in this coastal city. A symbol of wealth and prosperity, thuppe has vanished from our memories in urbanized set up.

Inaugurating the two-day event he said, Tulu has gained universal recognition now. The Tulu desi culture has inculcated certain humane values among the people of this part. It being an agriculture society the work culture of this land has taught us to respect food and agricultural land. The joint family system here besides brining about tolerance and dedication has taught people to respect elders.

Recalling some incidents from his student days, he said participation in cultural events is not because they contribute towards building personalities of the students. He said, the students must not forget the Tulu language and culture as it’s is the very essence of their lives. They must proudly introduce themselves as an offspring of this rich and generous heritage.

Prof. Pushpalatha, Principal of the college who was on the dais gave the welcome speech; she said this college always gave importance to culture of this land. Students are motivated to love language, tradition and natural environs of this rich land. Further she said, life is a struggle, students by participating in such competitions may flourish in to wonderful persons.

Mr. Kudpi Jagadish Shenoy, president, Women’s National Education Society (WNES) who presided over the inaugural function wished the students well and said; students must make use of opportunities colleges provide to develop their personalities. He expressed joy over Besant’s efforts toward for preservation of local language and culture.

Mr.Mohan Nayak, Correspondent, Dr.Minakshi K Student welfare office and Student union president Ms. Niharika were also present on the dais.