Magic spell
The article “The rise of a global icon” made for interesting reading as it elegantly traced the history of how the bronze icon of Thiruvalangadu Nataraja — dancing image of Lord Shiva reflecting the artistic and creative genius of our ancestors — has become a global icon. The fact that the sculpture of Nataraja has still continued to cast its magic spell on millions of people across the globe is nothing but a proof of its timeless and eternal quality.
M. Jeyaram
Sholavandan
I for one cannot fathom how Western artists can deride something that is far more superior. In my opinion the only reason Western art is highly regarded is because of the financial power of the West. The exceptions are Michelangelo and Da Vinci. These are artists whose work can inspire awe in anyone anywhere, without he or she having to do any background study. True art should draw you to it.
Subramani
Comment on the website
Change within
“Burn dowry, not women” by Kalpana Sharma did not come as a surprise. A few days ago I attended an orientation programme where many young girls and boys participated. When the coordinator asked how many of us supported the dowry system, it was shocking to find many boys raising their hands with pride (remember these are educated boys from ‘cultured' backgrounds). They claimed it was their right. Some even said they will not go against the tradition their forefathers followed.
What many do not understand is that the dowry system was established by our ancestors to provide financial security to women, who, in those days had no possessions or assets. But today's woman, empowered with education and skills, is an asset herself. Why then should we continue with this meaningless system? Unless this mentality changes no amount of awareness campaigns or demonstrations will bear fruit. The awareness has to come from within and like charity, this change too must begin at home.
Aparna J. Pai
Pallikunnu, Kannur
