Suniel Shetty calls Tulu ‘part of who I am’ after Karnataka recognition

Picture Credit: X

Taking to Instagram, Suniel Shetty shared a poster that read, “Finally Tullu official in Karnataka”. He also penned an emotional note about what the language means to him.The ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ actor described Tulu as more than just a language, saying it is closely connected to his identity, memories, people and home.“This one is very close to my heart. Tulu is not just a language I speak, it is a part of who I am. It carries my roots, my memories, my people, my home. It’s a proud moment for every Tuluva who has carried this language and culture with love through generations. Tuluvere Solmelu,” he wrote.

The Karnataka Cabinet approved the decision during a special meeting in Mangaluru on September 18. Under the decision, Tulu will have additional official-language status for administrative purposes in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, where the language has a strong presence.

Suniel Shetty’s connection with Tulu cinema

Suniel Shetty’s association with Tulu also extends to his work in regional cinema. The actor made his Tulu film debut with ‘Jai’, a Kannada-Tulu political drama directed by and starring Roopesh Shetty. The film was released in 2025, with Suniel appearing in a cameo. The actor comes from a Tulu-speaking Bunt family with roots in Mulki near Mangaluru. His connection to the language and region has therefore remained an important part of his public identity, making the latest recognition particularly meaningful to him.

Suniel Shetty’s work front

Suniel Shetty was last seen in the comedy-drama ‘Welcome To The Jungle’, which features an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani and Jacqueline Fernandez, among others. The actor has also recently taken on a new responsibility within the film industry. Suniel Shetty has been appointed as one of the members of the newly reconstituted Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which comprises 18 members. The new board was announced by the government on September 16, 2026.