The article “A European war, fought by India” (Aug. 5) by Shashank Joshi is an eye-opener. Most of the youngsters are not interested in history. As a result, they know little about the country. Students should be taught not just to mug up and score marks but also to respect their precious past. Ignorance is not an excuse and is certainly a scandal.
Lidia Mariam Benoji,
Ranni, Kerala
Wars, small or big, should be remembered for the losses they caused. They should remind us that there is no such thing like “a war to end all wars” as the First World War was described. Today, when the world is gripped in a war-like situation, we must commemorate the First World War for the lessons it taught, more than anything else.
Mani Agarwal,
Agra
That India fought the war of 1914-18 is technically inaccurate. India as an idea was only in its adolescence then. Indian soldiers were forced to participate. Many did it for extra money, and many more due to poverty and the need for employment. We should remember them only as the scapegoats of imperialism.
D. Harikrishnan,
Thiruvananthapuram
As the article points out, India was the largest ‘contributor’ to the British empire. The drain of food and other resources caused unprecedented famines in the country. What is there in this sordid tale of ruthless colonial exploitation to commemorate or celebrate? 2014 should be the year of mourning for India’s forced sacrifices in the First World War.
A.N. Lakshmanan,
Bangalore
