Myths of Composite Culture and Equality of Religions

Author: Harsh NarainPublisher: Voice of IndiaYear: 1997Language: EnglishPages: 76ISBN/UPC (if available): 8185990451 DescriptionIs Indian culture a composite culture, a cultural unity composed predominantly of pre-Muslim Indian culture and Muslim culture? This analytical work describes it as a myth.The stated on unstated postulates of 'secular' reasoning in the present context are:1 That Indian culture is a composite culture.2. That the composite culture is pre-eminently the culture supervenient upon the mingling of the Hindu and Muslim cultural streams.3. That the Hindus should be thankful to the Muslims for the latter's contribution to the composite culture.4. That is this phase of Indian culture which of paramount importance as conducive to communal harmony and national integration.5. That such a composition of cultures is always desirable.On the other side, cultural purists tend to dismiss the idea of a composite cultur4e out of hand and assert that it is civilization