President Pranab Mukherjee today said that pluralism and tolerance have been the hallmark of the Indian civilization and this core philosophy must continue unabated. Addressing the valedictory ceremony of the ten day long Rasshtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav in New Delhi this evening, Mr Mukherjee said, India's strength lies in its diversity and in a pluralistic society, the values of tolerance, respect for contrary views and patience are essential in the citizens particularly the youth. <br/><br/>He said, diversity is a double-edged sword and if all work together in harmony with unity of purpose, India can achieve tremendous heights as a nation. He said, if different strands pull apart in different directions, it will only negate the good. Mr Mukherjee said, India has always stood out as a beacon of harmonious co-existence in front of the world where in many parts people are fighting people to lunge further into darkness. <br/><br/>The President said, India may be a young nation but it is an old civilization dating back a few thousand years and the accumulation of cultural wealth over the centuries is immense. He said, there has been assimilation of ideas and values and this has resulted in a nation which is diverse and represented by plurality in its culture. <br/><br/>The President said, the tech savvy youth of the country who are also exposed to the world outside must know and learn to value their own roots and it is particularly relevant as there is growing inquisitiveness in the western world and outside about ancient Indian culture which is a rich source of spiritual inspiration. <br/><br/>He lauded the Culture Ministry, seven Zonal Cultural Centres, the Akademies and other institutions saying that they are are playing an important role in preserving and promoting the unique cultural heritage. <br/><br/>He said, by showcasing the composite Indian traditional art and culture, the Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav has achieved a very important objective of integration through diverse cultural tradition. Mr Mukherjee also paid his tributes to the great artistes, musicians, singers for their contribution to the national cultural heritage.