Recognising and celebrating diversity in language and culture is essential in realising a plural society, opined Central Sahitya Akademi awardee Rahmath Tarikere.In his talk on diversity as part of a six-day lecture series ‘Writer-in-Residence Programme’ at Sahyadri Arts College of Kuvempu University in Shivamogga on Wednesday, November 12, Prof. Tarikere said that diversity in language and culture has long been the identity of India. Within Karnataka, there are people who speak many languages other than Kannada. Among those who speak Kannada, the nuances of the language change every 20-30 kilometres. “Language has played a role in the formation of States and nations in the past,” he said.Similarly, there have been diverse food habits, dressing, and ways of celebrating a festival. “We should understand that the world is diverse and it is the reality. We should recognise it and also celebrate it. However, the problem comes when diversity is dictated based on social hierarchy and one’s culture or habit is forced upon others. Unless there is equality within diversity, we cannot succeed in realising a pluralistic society,” he stated.Further, Prof. Tarikere, referring to the Kavirajamarga, the earliest work on Kannada poetics by Nrupatunga, said that tolerating another’s thoughts was like gold.Prof. Siraj Ahmed, the principal, and others were present at the programme. The lecture was followed by an interaction with students.Published - November 12, 2025 05:52 pm IST