The Tulupara Horata Samiti, a coastal Karnataka organization, has intensified its call to rename Dakshina Kannada district as Mangaluru district, emphasizing the need to align the region’s identity with its vibrant central city. At a press conference on Tuesday, Samiti leader Dayananda Kathalsar argued that “Dakshina Kannada” is a colonial relic that fails to reflect the Tulu-speaking community’s linguistic and cultural aspirations.

“Mangaluru is a globally recognized hub for banking, education, and industry. Naming the district after it will boost regional pride and administrative clarity,” Kathalsar said, citing examples like Bengaluru Urban and Mysuru districts, which bear their main cities’ names. The Samiti plans to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to press for swift action.

The proposal, backed by local leaders like Congress MLC Ivan D’Souza and BJP MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath, has gained cross-party momentum, with supporters arguing that Mangaluru’s brand recognition will enhance the district’s economic and cultural stature. However, some advocate for “Tulunadu” to honor the region’s dominant Tulu culture, while others, like former Deputy Commissioner A.B. Ibrahim, have previously defended retaining Dakshina Kannada for its historical significance.

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The demand follows recent district renamings, such as Bengaluru Rural to Bengaluru North and Ramanagara to Bengaluru South, approved by the Karnataka cabinet on July 2 and in May, respectively. As the issue heats up, it is set to spark debate in upcoming assembly sessions, reflecting the region’s deep linguistic and cultural pride. The government has yet to respond, but the push for Mangaluru district signals a growing movement for regional identity.

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