It is little surprise that the headlines have shifted to the freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose (in the inside pages, “Many freedom fighters now recognized as: PM”, January 24). Netaji would never have accepted Hindutva as is being propagated now. Netaji’s Azad Hind Fauj consisted of Hindus, Christians and Muslims. Once again, those in charge of governing this nation are proceeding with a strange kind of adventure.
Achuthakrishnan M. Variath,
Mudappulur, Palakkad, Kerala
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose embodies the three qualities that make him immortal – strategic intelligence, courage and leadership. Unfortunately, their contribution and the contribution of the Azad Hind Fauj have not been given their due. The government’s move to erect his statue is ultimately a great tribute.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
An unnecessary and distasteful controversy has erupted over the government’s decision to replace ‘Abide with me’ with ‘Abide with me’.O people of my country‘ at the Beating Retreat ceremony this year. ‘Abide with me’ is part of a tradition that dates back to colonial times. A lot has changed and to change that Indian tune is extremely popular among the Indian crowd. It is especially appropriate for a formal military occasion. It’s time to give ‘Stay With Me’ a quiet funeral. It may remain with us in memory.
Bangalore
R. Nagaswami was a walking encyclopedia, with a humble approach to the commoner and the elite alike. He was also instrumental in reviving Drama: Demonstrations in temples in Tamil Nadu in 1982. As one of the members of the advisory board, I had the privilege of working with him to find suitable names for temple festivals. When I suggested the name ‘Natyanjali’, he was overjoyed to accept it and started the festival in Chidambaram with a repertoire, which I choreographed in 1968. Drama: The fraternity owes a lot to this gentleman of vision and integrity.
Chennai
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