Four initiatives. One mission. Preserving the heritage of Tulunad for the world.
The Encyclopedia of Tulu Knowledge
A community-built digital encyclopedia dedicated to Tulu language, history, culture, folklore, and traditions. The first initiative of TCRF - and the starting point of the entire ecosystem.
Sister Platform & Encyclopedia
Research in Print
The publishing arm of TCRF. Punname Publications transforms years of field research, manuscript studies, and linguistic scholarship into beautifully produced books and papers - preserving knowledge in its most enduring form.
Master the Tulu Script
An immersive calligraphic sandbox and interactive learning app by Tulupedia. Pajje allows learners, students, and enthusiasts worldwide to practice writing Tulu characters with real-time stroke recognition, flashcards, and accuracy verification.
The Language, in Your Hands
From the standardized Unicode Tulu script and downloadable font packs to structured learning resources, Learn Tulu makes the language accessible to diaspora communities and new learners worldwide.
Jeetige introduces the Tulu-Tulu script using standardized modern orthography, bridging historical paleography with contemporary learning needs.
2026
2026
2026
From the first palm-leaf digitization to a global cultural platform - every milestone in the story of TCRF.
A small group of enthusiasts - many of them students - launched the beta version of Tulupedia on 21 August 2022. The goal was simple: create a trusted digital encyclopedia dedicated to Tulu language, history, literature, traditions, and culture. Initially, only the core editorial team could publish articles; contributors submitted pieces for review before publication.
As Tulupedia grew, the team realised that preserving a culture required far more than an online encyclopedia - it needed an institution. On 15 February 2023, The Tulu Cultural Research Foundation (R.) was established in Mangaluru. Its purpose: encourage research, document heritage, preserve knowledge, and build a community united by the same mission.
During a research journey to Kerala, team members identified the need for a modern Tulu script primer. This led to the publication of Jeetige (February 2023) - the first standardised Tulu script learning booklet. As more publishing initiatives followed, they were brought together under Punname Publications, TCRF's dedicated academic press.
TCRF launched its community-facing Tulu Lipi initiatives in 2023 - installing the first standardised Tulu script boards at Shri Kordabbu Daivasthana, Lingappayyakad (March 2023), and conducting hands-on script workshops at Alva's Institute of Engineering, Moodbidri (May 2023). These programmes brought the script out of manuscripts and into everyday public life.
The inaugural Tulunad Conclave brought together over 500 delegates - scholars, folk artists, diaspora leaders, linguists, and technologists - at Katpadi Vishwanatha Temple, Udupi (April 13–14, 2025). The two-day conference culminated in the official release of the standardised Tulu Unicode font, marking a historic milestone in the digital preservation of the Tulu script.
On 15 April 2026, Tulupedia entered a new chapter - evolving from a curated editorial model into a community-driven knowledge platform. Users can now create accounts, submit articles, and contribute directly, with every submission reviewed by experienced TCRF editors. The same release introduced the Tulu Dictionary, expanding Tulupedia into a broader digital knowledge platform.
Inaugural lamp-lighting ceremony of the Tulunad Conclave 2025, at Katpadi Vishwanatha Temple, Udupi - April 13, 2025.
Your support directly funds palm-leaf manuscript digitization, Unicode standardization research, educational programs, and the cultural events that keep Tulu heritage alive for future generations.
