TWO STATES

No. Don’t worry. I am not going to discuss Andhra and Telangana.  It’s about the book I read a few years ago and the film that’s going to be released tomorrow. The film too like the book is certainly going to be a success. There is no doubt about it.

I might sound cynical.  But let me be honest.  I did not enjoy reading it.  It is not the style, the language, or the taut storyline that I did not like.  A writer of Chetan Bhagat’s caliber certainly doesn’t need a testimonial from a person like me. But I am entitled to my opinion. 

I didn’t like the way Madrasis, particularly the Tam Brams are portrayed in the book.  There are many things that are exaggerated.  Take for example, when Krish visits Ananya’s house, he describes a scene where her family members run holding food served on banana leaves.  How can that be possible? Yes, even today in many homes, on auspicious occasions and during functions, food is served in leaves, particularly in tender banana leaves and is considered an honour.  Such food is always served on tables or on floors, but never in buffet style. 

His comparison of the delicacy murukku to fossilized snake is not in good taste. It is such a wonderful snack and one needs expertise to make it.  (Why should he compare a snack with a snake?)  So is the comparison of Carnatic music to wailing and his criticism about the awards.

I don’t dispute about the clichéd and stereotypical perception of people.  Every community has an opinion about the other communities and cultural shocks are inevitable. But I strongly feel that when a person is in love, he or she is natural to get attracted to and celebrate the cultural differences and not ridicule or portray them with a negative connotation as is the case in the book referred to.  I would like to quote Khushwant Singh who said; “I do believe that if you fall in love, your very perception of the other person’s community changes.  You begin to feel closer to that community.  Before I met Ghayoor I’d stereotypical notions that most Hindus and Sikhs are brought up with. But all that changed. And my attachment for the Muslim community increased in the years that followed.” Isn’t it true?  I failed to find this attachment in 2 States.

I have seen many couples from different States adapting to their partners’ religion, culture and language so well in our relatives’ and friends’ circles that it is very hard for some stranger to make out that their backgrounds are different. 

Please do not jump into a conclusion that I am a Tam Bram.  I am not.  Many of my friends are and they are all very smart, in every respect.