Bangalore International Airport To Make Announcements In Local Language: Kannada

Kempegowda International Airport is preparing to welcome delegates from the upcoming Akhila Bharatha Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Mandya, a three-day event scheduled from December 18 to 20. As part of its collaboration with the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, the airport will set up reception desks and a photo booth to create a warm welcome for attendees.

The airport's collaboration with the Kannada Sahitya Parishat was discussed during a meeting between Mahesh Joshi, chairman of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, and Hari Marar, MD & CEO of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), and HR Venkatraman, head of corporate affairs. The meeting aimed to promote Kannada language and culture, and the airport has committed to utilizing digital media to share information about the event and engaging with passengers through on-ground activities.

Joshi requested that the airport make the first announcement on any flight landing or taking off in Kannada, followed by other languages. He plans to formally propose this idea to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and hopes to implement it by Kannada Rajyotsava Day on November 1. Notably, British Airways and Singapore Airlines have already started making Kannada announcements on their flights.

Joshi also asked the airport to install large welcome display boards in Kannada to create an atmosphere reflecting Karnataka's rich culture. "Many attendees, including non-resident Kannadigas from the US and Europe, must feel like they've arrived in Karnataka as soon as they land," he said. The airport authorities responded positively to the request, and Joshi hopes to extend the initiative to other airports, including Mangaluru.

A BIAL spokesperson confirmed the airport's collaboration with the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, stating that reception desks and photo booths will be set up to greet delegates. The airport will also promote the event through digital media and interactive activities with passengers. Marar reiterated BIAL's commitment to supporting Karnataka's language, art, and culture.