KDA chronicles harmony: 100 books to showcase state’s shared cultural legacy | Bengaluru News
Bengaluru: In a major push to promote communal amity and shared heritage, Kannada Development Authority (KDA) is set to publish 100 books that delve into Karnataka’s long-standing traditions of social harmony. These books, targeted especially at youth, will document the historical and cultural legacy of harmony centres spread across various districts.The initiative, described as a cultural counterpoint to rising intolerance, is led by a team of scholars and writers handpicked by the authority. The first batch of 34 books is only awaiting a back-cover blurb by acclaimed writer and intellectual Devanur Mahadeva.“We initially planned to release all 100 books at one go, but now we are publishing 34 books, and the remaining will be published later,” said Purushottam Bilimale, KDA chairman .Each book, comprising 72 pages, is written in simple Kannada to suit high school and college students. “We aim to equip the next generation with a nuanced understanding of Karnataka’s composite culture and human values that underpin it,” Bilimale said.The books will shine a light on places known for interfaith coexistence, shared places of worship, folk art forms that blend Hindu and Muslim traditions, and personalities who championed humanity and peace. The initiative will also explore the impact of diverse religious and cultural migrations into Karnataka over centuries.“Social harmony has been disrupted and hatred has emerged among different communities nationwide, including in Karnataka,” Bilimale said. “Historically, Karnataka embraced social harmony, with multiple cultures followed by communities such as Hindu and Muslim.”Tracing Karnataka’s pluralistic heritage, Bilimale noted that the arrival of Islam introduced new architectural idioms while Christianity added modernity to Kannada. “Many communities have migrated and settled in the Kannada region, embracing diverse influences, leading to the unique, humane, and generous growth of the Kannada land,” he added.KDA is also planning to roll out essay writing competitions at taluk and district levels to encourage students to engage with the books. Through these contests, the authority hopes to spark interest in Karnataka’s layered cultural past and its relevance to the present. The editorial project has been coordinated by KDA member Ravikumar Neeha, with renowned writer Bolwar Mahammad Kunhi serving as the editor. An eight-member editorial team has worked on the texts, while a 10-member committee, prioritising new writers, was formed to execute the initiative.The books will also feature spiritual and cultural contributions from Sufi saints, Tulu Nadu deities, Shirahatti Fakkireshwar Swami, and Male Mahadeshwara. KDA said these stories and traditions are not only part of Karnataka’s folk legacy but also powerful reminders of coexistence and respect across faiths.
