You probably don't want to do it this way. If you are using apache, you'll want to look into mod_perl. It allows you to use handlers instead of scripts (which are generally faster) to accomplish this.

Also, look at Apache::PageKit which is a complete templating system that allows you to write reusable components.

You've just stepped into a design pattern that a large portion of perlmonks is familiar with. I'm sure if you ask a few questions and do some reading you'll find a superior, thought out plan to your website.

Btw, if you are using apache, try:

DirectoryIndex /index.pl
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