Mangaluru: Union Minister and Malayalam film actor Suresh Gopi drew the attention of people in coastal Karnataka by beginning his speech in Tulu at a public meeting in Mangaluru. His warm greeting in the regional language connected with the audience and highlighted his effort to engage with the people of the coastal region.
Addressing a large gathering organised by the BJP Mangaluru division, Gopi greeted the audience in Tulu, saying, “ಮಾತೆರೆಗ್ಲಾ ನಮಸ್ಕಾರ, ಎಂಚ ಉಲ್ಲರ್, ಸೌಖ್ಯ?” “Greetings to everyone. How are you? Are you well?”
He continued in Tulu, saying, “ದೇವೆರ್ನ ಆಶೀರ್ವಾದ ಮಾತೆರೆಗ್ಲಾ ಇಪ್ಪಡ್,” conveying his wishes that God’s blessings be with everyone.
Tulu greeting draws attention
Gopi’s use of Tulu became a notable moment during the programme, as he addressed the gathering in a language closely associated with the coastal districts. His opening words and blessings were received as a gesture of warmth towards the local people.
The minister’s brief interaction in Tulu stood out during the event, which brought together BJP workers from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
BJP organises rally and public meeting
The BJP Mangaluru division organised the large-scale padayatra and public meeting under the slogan “Save Democracy, Erase Anarchy”. Party workers and leaders from the two coastal districts took part in the programme.
Gopi attended the gathering and addressed the participants. His speech began with the Tulu greetings, drawing attention to the cultural and linguistic identity of the coastal region.
The event was organised as a major party programme in Mangaluru, with the participation of BJP workers from across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
A moment of regional connection
Tulu is widely spoken in the coastal belt, particularly in Dakshina Kannada and parts of Udupi. By opening his address with familiar Tulu expressions, Gopi acknowledged the language and shared a moment of connection with the local audience.
His greeting — asking people how they were and wishing them God’s blessings — became the highlight of his opening remarks.
The programme combined a padayatra with a public meeting, bringing party workers from the two districts together in Mangaluru. Gopi’s Tulu address added a local touch to the gathering and attracted attention among those present.