Thu Sep 11 14:01:11 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Purushothama Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, speaking at a program in Mangaluru, emphasized the multicultural origins of Indian culture. He argued that India’s culture is a confluence of influences from numerous communities entering the country over thousands of years, including influences from African, Greek, Iranian, and Mughal cultures. He warned against imposing the culture of a small minority onto the majority of the population, suggesting a need for greater understanding and acceptance of India’s diverse heritage.
**News Article:**
**Mangaluru Cultural Authority Head: India’s Strength Lies in its Multicultural Heritage**
**MANGALURU, Sept 11, 2025** – Addressing a gathering organized by Mother Theresa Vichara Vedike in Mangaluru on Thursday, Purushothama Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, delivered a compelling message about the diverse roots of Indian culture and the importance of preserving its multicultural character.
Bilimale, speaking on “Dangers for communal harmony: Challenges before democracy,” drew upon 5,000 years of Indian history to illustrate how the nation’s culture has been shaped by the influx of various communities and their traditions. He cited examples ranging from the Greek influence during the Maurya Dynasty, evident in early Buddha statues, to the African origins of certain hunting practices in Dakshina Kannada. He also highlighted the Iranian influence on agriculture and the Mughal contribution of Biriyani to Indian cuisine.
“Students have to understand that our culture is a mix of several cultures. As many as 4,600 communities have entered the country from other parts,” Bilimale stated.
He cautioned against the imposition of a singular cultural identity, emphasizing that the culture practiced by a small percentage of the population should not be forced upon the rest of the country.
The event also featured remarks from Communist Party of India (Marxist) District Secretary Muneer Katipalla, and was attended by former Bishop of Mangaluru Aloysius Paul D’Souza.
Bilimale’s remarks come at a time when discussions surrounding cultural identity and inclusivity are at the forefront of national discourse. His call for recognizing and celebrating India’s diverse heritage resonated with many attendees, prompting a renewed focus on promoting communal harmony and understanding within the nation.
First Piper 