‘A memory of oblivion’ is the phrase that comes to one’s mind after reading the report, “The Amar Jawan Jyoti now merged into the National War Memorial flame, says the government” (22 January). Applying the same strange logic, why don’t we also ‘merge’ all the idols of leaders? Already, the work of erasing history is in progress. One wonders what the next casualty will be. Independence day address from Mughal era fort?
Bangalore
Certainly, both flames could have coexisted as stand-alone symbols of our glorious past, reflecting our courage and valor. Daring young people in different time frames. For many veterans like me, and even for our millennials, the Amar Jawan Jyoti Memorial, with an eternal flame, always holds deep memories of our past, including the colonial one. It is quite unheard of in the annals of Indian history to contain items of immense value. Surely, the government could also know our views.
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Many travelers to the national capital make it a point to visit this holy place to gain inspiration and imbibe national pride. Flame The iconic place has been given importance, an identity, a purpose and a charm and has not become a hindrance to any section of the society so far. The government could have left it untouched.
Chennai
Shortening, distorting, erasing history and crafting new narratives to suit their political and religious ideologies are tools the ruling party is using to polarize voters for narrow political gains. Mahatma Gandhi from appointing a committee to ‘examine’ ancient history, a split horrific Remembrance Day, the Central Vista Project, renaming of public monuments, cities, towns, educational institutions and even this year’s Beating Retreat ceremony The enthusiasm shown in the removal of Gandhi’s favorite hymn are all examples of a well-crafted, despicable plan to drive the politics of the future with the discovery of a new history. Time has come for the people of this great country to see these political moves.
Thiruvananthapuram
I am shocked and shocked that the government has decided to remove the Mahatma’s favorite hymn, ‘Abide with Me’, from this year’s Beating Retreat ceremony, and has been played every year since 1950. Who is the brain behind this unfair move? Won’t it touch the nation quickly? It is a bitter truth that today’s young generation is unaware of the public services given by Gandhiji. Now, skipping their favorite hymn will only make it worse.
Coonoor, Nilgiris
Subhash Bhowmik was famous as ‘Bulldozer’ in football field of his generation. He shook the opponent’s defense with his dribbling skills. His switchover to coaching was also notable. His contribution will always be linked to the rise of Indian football.
Faridabad, Haryana
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