Battleground Varanasi

March 29, 2014 01:30 am | Updated May 19, 2016 12:24 pm IST

Nobody can deny the fact that Narendra Modi is one of the most assiduously built-up political brands anywhere in the world, crafted to a large extent by repeatedly harping on the Gujarat model of development (“ >Why battleground at Varanasi is different ,” March 28). However, any marketing professional will tell you that publicity can help build a brand only up to one point. With the entry of Mr. Arvind Kejriwal into the fray, Battleground Varanasi has taken on a different connotation for many reasons. For one, Mr. Kejriwal is fighting to change the corrupt system that Mr. Modi is a part of. While Mr. Kejriwal places people first, Mr. Modi appears to be placing the brand first. In a way, Mr. Kejriwal is attempting to unite people to strengthen democracy through their participation. Mr. Modi, on the other hand, appears keen that the complete decision-making process be left to him.

Ettirankandath Krishnadas ,

Palakkad

The contents of the article rise from the well-spring of thoughts from a pure heart filled with values and patriotism. If all Indians are inclined to support the positive message that the article wants to convey, it is indeed the beginning of a new dawn in India which will emerge once again on the world stage — as a model country as far as human values, peace, prosperity and development are concerned.

Mohamed Ali ,

Bangalore

The article is very anti-Modi, projecting as it does only the imagined virtues of Mr. Kejriwal. The writer seems to be shedding tears for the old guard of the BJP while projecting the party as one that divides Hindus and Muslims. The fact is that India wants a change in political thinking. The AAP got a chance to prove its mettle in Delhi, a chance it frittered away by abandoning its duties. The challenge was to prove itself within the constraints and then govern. We know the answer.

A.P. Viswanathan ,

Chennai

The article erred in making out the electoral contest between Mr. Modi and Mr. Kejriwal to be a clash of ideologies. Caste, religion, language and region-based politics are the essential ingredients to seek votes from the masses. The failure of UPA-II in the field of governance has only led to people automatically longing for the alternative — the other national party, the BJP. Sensing the mood of the people, the RSS has jumped into the fray and helped the BJP in sidelining the old guard.

Mr. Kejriwal is a much hyped persona who is largely the creation of the electronic and social media and being made out to be a magician who can banish corruption. His fortunes will dwindle or grow depending on his loss or win in Varanasi.

Sundari Ghovi ,

Chennai

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