Fascinating Story Of US Student Learning To Speak Tulu Fluently
In an incredibly inspiring journey of cultural immersion and language acquisition, Samuel Dragomire, a young American, has caught the attention of many for his fluency in Tulu, a language primarily spoken in parts of Karnataka, India. From Rhode Island, United States, to the heart of Karnataka, Sam’s story is a beautiful testament to the bridges language can build between diverse cultures and communities.
Samuel, affectionately known as Sam, originally moved to Bengaluru, Karnataka, with the intent to explore and understand the rich culture of the city. However, his journey took a linguistically immersive turn when he ventured into Mangaluru, developing a deep passion for the Tulu language. Holding a master’s in Data Analytics Engineering from Northeastern University, Sam’s academic pursuits are impressive. Yet, it’s his linguistic journey that has become a focal point of his stay in India.
Sam’s interaction with the Shetty and Poojary communities, known for their strong traditions and ties to the Tulu language, sparked his interest. Intrigued and fascinated by their conversations, he began learning Tulu words, gradually progressing to fluently converse in the language. His efforts did not stop there, as he also embraced the Kannada script, learning to converse and understand it through online studies from the USA, significantly, without any tutor’s assistance. Besides, Sam has extended his linguistic repertoire to include proficiency in Portuguese, showcasing his remarkable talent for languages.
Now calling the Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts his home, Sam is not just a language enthusiast but an explorer at heart. He spends his time visiting tourist attractions, delving into the region’s culture, rituals, and worship practices. This holistic approach to understanding the community’s way of life has endeared him to the local people, who have warmly embraced him as one of their own.
Samuel’s dedication to learning Tulu and immersing himself in the local culture has made him a social media sensation. His vlogs, in which he showcases his ability to communicate effortlessly in Tulu, have garnered a substantial following. One notable video features Sam engaging with local vendors and fish sellers in Mangaluru, much to their delight and surprise at his fluency in their language. The interactions are a testament to the universal language of effort and respect, transcending geographical and cultural barriers.
His fluency in Tulu is so advanced that he often incorporates Tulu words into conversations even when the other person speaks English. Asked in Tulu about the presence of mosquitoes, Sam’s response in perfect Tulu, “Umil Undu,” signifies not just his linguistic capability but his willingness to integrate fully into the local way of life.
Samuel Dragomire’s story is a remarkable example of how the dedication to language learning can open doors to new worlds and foster connections that transcend borders. It’s a narrative that encourages embracing new cultures, learning new languages, and understanding the world from a broader perspective. As Sam continues his journey of cultural exploration and linguistic proficiency, his story serves as an inspiration to many around the globe, proving that language is indeed a powerful tool for unity and friendship.
Stay tuned to witness more of Sam’s adventures and his continuous journey into the heart of Tulu culture on his YouTube channel, where he shares his experiences, interactions, and the beauty of language learning with the world.
