A crusader for healthy habits

THIS refers to the write-up "A crusader for healthy habits" (July 15) in which R.K. Malhotra has paid a tribute to Dr Chhuttani. Apart from being an eminent doctor, a teacher of high order and an ace administrator, Dr Chhuttani was a philanthropist who worked for the uplift of humanity at large. The cause of education was dear to his heart. He donated Rs 3 crore to Panjab University before his death. The successful running of the Chandigarh Medical Centre has also been the result of his hard work and philanthropic work. The diligence and dedication with which he performed his duties won him accolades the world over.

VIJAY SHEEL JAIN
Ludhiana

Babu English

Apropos of Shriniwas Joshi’s feature "In defence of Babu English" (July 8), in days of the Raj, any representation made by an official to his superior, did not end with‘yours faithfully’ but with:

"I beg to remain, sir, your most obedient servant,

(XYZ)".

The word Babu, also written as Baboo, is of Indian origin. When the British arrived, babu was used in Bengal for the elite of society. The Concise Oxford Dictionary (1938) describes the word Baboo as:

"Baboo, n. (As Hindoo title) Mr; Hindoo gentleman;

Indian-English — writing clerk; (contemptuous) half anglicized Hindoo (Hind.babu)".

O.P. SHARMA
Faridabad

A glorious tradition

This refers to the article "A glorious tradition" by Ranjana Malik (July 15). It is truly glorious when sons keep a tradition alive by joining the Army, in which their fathers and sometimes even grandfathers had served. Such families whose members dedicate their lives to defend our motherland do us all proud.

AMRIT PAL TIWANA
Kalka

Acknowledge God’s grace

Apropos of the write-up "Scientific adviser at 13" by Sanjay Austa, it was heartening to learn about the achievements of young genius Tathagat Avatar Tulsi. But at the same time it was distressing to read about his father T.N. Prasad’s taking credit for his son’s exceptional abilities. I do agree that parents’ restraint, their disciplined efforts and thorough attention can help produce good and noble children but then one must not fail to acknowledge God’s grace. Further the father’s claim about producing another genius offspring by a Himachali woman has not been properly explained. If he does have a formula, he must share it with the world because there is dire need of such intellectuals.

B.M. PURI
Solan