Misleading narratives on north-south divide must end: Rajnath

Tumakuru: Defence minister Rajnath Singh dismissed claims that north India has historically dominated the south, calling such narratives “misleading and incorrect”, while emphasising that Karnataka and other southern states have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s cultural and religious heritage.
Speaking at the 118th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Sivakumara Swami at

Siddaganga Mutt

Tuesday, Rajnath said, “It is unfortunate that some people are trying to prove that the north has dominated the south; it is completely wrong. Karnataka itself is proof that the south gave a new direction to the north in matters of religion on many occasions.”
To support his view, Singh cited the historic debate between Acharya Mandan Mishra of Kashi and

Adi Shankaracharya

, highlighting how Indian tradition has always valued knowledge over divisions.
“Acharya Mandan Mishra became a disciple of Shankaracharya, and it is popular belief that he came to Karnataka and became Acharya Suresharacharya in Shringeri,” Rajnath said. “This means that the Indian tradition was very liberal regarding knowledge and did not hesitate in accepting the truth. Therefore, I believe that today there is a need to get rid of the propaganda spread during the period of slavery to create differences,” he said.

He went on to say, “Just as every person or thing has some unique quality, similarly the country also has its own character and identity. The character of India has always been of spirituality and service to humanity. We must always maintain this identity.”
Singh also emphasised the importance of Sanskrit and its global significance. “The mutt is promoting such a great language; this is praiseworthy in every respect,” he said, adding that Sanskrit’s very etymology signifies refinement and culture.
He credited saints for preserving the country’s traditions despite historical challenges. “Many invaders tried to destroy Indian culture, but the saints of this country kept this culture alive,” he said.