This refers to the article on the widespread obsession with skin colour by O.J. Joycee (Open Page, June 13). In spite of the advance we have made in the field of education, skin colour remains one of the prerequisites for a woman at the time of marriage. Reflecting our obsession, we find lots of fairness creams promising overnight fairness. An advertisement for a prominent cream shows a girl's career brightening up along with her skin tone.
Deepa Nagaraj,
Hyderabad
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The article exposed one of the oldest flaws that exists in our society that is oh-so-obsessed with the traditional “fair and slim” young women. What is more, beauty creams and products that endorse fairness for men have also hit the market.
The advertisements for promoting such products are highly regrettable as they show men and women of dark complexion as being unable to climb the ladder of success.
Deepa Ranganathan,
New Delhi
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That there is a prejudice against dark-skinned girls not only at home but everywhere, including academic institutions, is well known. As it is, many societies consider the birth of a girl child a burden. A dark-complexioned girl is treated as a liability. She is discriminated against at every stage of her life and given no choice on any matter. On the other hand, fair complexion and glamour are seen as signs of luck. We describe a dark-complexioned, pretty girl as a ‘black beauty.' As grooming is one of the main reasons for such discrimination, what we need to do is broaden our outlook and shed our prejudice against the dark skin.
K.R. Srinivasan,
Secunderabad
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The author has rightly pointed out to the general attitude of people towards girls with dark complexion. When it comes to seeking matrimonial alliances, such girls are not preferred. This causes an inferiority complex in them and they are subdued despite possessing other virtues and skills. The irony is that even men with dark complexion look for girls who are fair in colour.
R. Thirumalai Muthu,
Kallidaikurichi
