FULL SPEECH: In India, we derive our strength from tolerance, and respect our pluralism, says Pranab Mukherjee at RSS event

Speaking at an RSS event at Sangh's headquarters in Nagpur, former President and Congress veteran Pranab Mukherjee today warned that any attempt to define India through "religion, dogma or intolerance" will only dilute the country's existence.

Mukherjee said intolerance will only dilute India' national identity and Indian nationalism emanated from universalism, assimilation and co-existence.

"In India, we derive our strength from tolerance, and respect our pluralism. We celebrate our diversity," he said.

"I am here to share my understanding on nation, nationalism and patriotism about our country which is 'Bharat'," said Mukherjee, who served as President of India between 2012 and 2017.

"We must free our public discourse from all kinds of fear and violence" he said.

Ahead of his speech at RSS headquarters here, former Mukherjee visited the birth place of late KB Hedgewar, founder of the  right-wing outfit. Mukherjee was welcomed by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat with a bouquet of flowers. Both were seen having a conversation at the first floor of the residence.

This was his first speech from the RSS platform. Many Congress leaders wrote to him requesting to not 'violate'  party line.

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