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Poetry for all
Apropos “Poet of the pulse of Punjab” (Spectrum, February 5), I do not agree with this assertion regarding Surjit Patar. He is primarily a ghazal writer, and has good knowledge of prosody and a knack for turning a phrase. Patar is prolific, but not “inspired”. Poetry is not just the language of a poet’s heart — it should express the natural emotions of every mind. The noblest poetry is one that “deals with life in its finest aspects.” It is not just the spontaneous overflow of a poet’s feelings. Bhagwan Singh,
Charisma campaign
‘Election and the baba log’(Fifty Fifty, February 19) by Kishwar Desai describes well the campaign style of contemporary politicians. New faces are taking over from their fathers, and “English speaking” candidates are selling like hot cakes on TV, as opposed to rough-hewn Laloos or the gruff-voiced Mayawatis. The western concept of presenting family moments of kissing and hugging in public may seem to wow the crowd, only election results will tell if the “charisma” works. Saroj Banyal,
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Charm and ability Apropos “Election and the baba log” (February 19), when Indira Gandhi was at the take-off stage, a common refrain was, “If nothing else, we shall have at least a beautiful face to see every morning in the newspapers”. The articulate Priyanka Vadra with her charming smile is as much a crowd-puller as her grandmother. No other “young face” in politics can give her competition, not even Rahul Gandhi. The issue of “dynastic politics” has lost steam. If businessmen, doctors, lawyers and other professionals can have their children taking to their profession, why not politicians? The only criterion should be capability. Simi Gandhi, Amritsar Trade goodwill Ashok Tuteja is right in saying that the mutual interest of India and Pakistan lies in harnessing the potential for bi-lateral trade (Perspective, February 19). Pakistan should reciprocate India’s gesture of according the Most Favoured Nation status on it. It is surprising to note that because of a lack of goodwill, people in Pakistan have to pay Rs 5 lakh for an Alto car. Dr Raj Bahadur Yadav Fatehabad Too optimistic ‘Sights set far’ (Perspective, Feb 19) was too optimistic, ignoring ground realities. Owing to the radical elements in the Pakistani army, backed by Islamists, relations between India and Pakistan are far from friendly. These elements, for their selfish motives, are keeping alive a feeling of hatred in the hearts of Pakistanis, which is the main stumbling block in the way of friendly Indo-Pak relations. A.K. Sharma, Chandigarh Talk to the army It is obvious increasing trade with Pakistan will benefit both the countries economically as well as socially. As for who should India talk to in Pakistan, it is the military, for the men in uniform are the ones who call the shots. The opposition from the radicals and certain small industries there would die down once trade picks up, which would benefit Pakistan more than India. India’s fear of terror threat increasing with greater trade will have to be addressed with increased vigil. R.K. Kapoor, Chandigarh
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