Thisrefers to “Dalits up in arms over purification of road after dapuu protest at Erravalli” (Sept 10). Purification rituals after political rallies revives the old caste practice of untouchability, now reengineered as a weapon of party rivalry. Though it appears as a theatrical gesture meant to delegitimise opponents, but it drags public life back into the language of discrimination. When parties extend this symbolism into rallies by “cleansing” spaces, they are essentially staging caste-like differentiation in political form’. Moreover, in Parliament and assemblies, even the seating arrangement has become an analogy for it— ruling party on one side, opposition on the other — a physical enactment of separation. While such seating is procedural, the mindset it reinforces is adversarial rather than collaborative. Will purification rituals be enacted there as well? This is not just ritualistic excess; it corrodes democratic culture. Instead of debating ideas, parties are dramatising purity versus pollution, which questions the very notion of equal citizenship.

Dr O Prasada Rao, Hyderabad

Political differences getting uglier

Consideringthe report titled “Ministers meet Governor, complain against BRS over ‘purification’ ritual”, I would like to bring to your notice the complaint made by a delegation of Telangana Ministers to the Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla about the purification ritual allegedly performed by the leaders of BRS at Erravalli. According to the ministers, the act which was allegedly performed by the BRS leaders after Dalit leaders held a protest near the farmhouse of KCR indicated a discriminatory attitude. The ministers were also concerned about the remarks allegedly made and the manner in which Dalit leaders were being treated. It is a very serious matter and needs to be investigated. Differences of opinion in politics should not lead to acts or statements which might affect the dignity of any community. It should be investigated by the concerned authorities and necessary action taken if these allegations are found to be true.

Pulpa Architha, Hyderabad

Address Gen Z issues, don’t pose

Afterthe CJP and Gen Z protests, the PM urged ministers to connect more often with Gen Z through Instagram and other social media. Soon, MPs—and now ministers—began borrowing Gen Z lingo. Suddenly, even the Assam Chief Minister and other ministers are sharing AI-generated “1980s retro” images of themselves. Rahul Gandhi, too, has joined the trend. The images may be amusing, but have politicians misunderstood what Gen Z is saying? The EC had already cautioned political parties and candidates in October 2025 to clearly label AI-generated/synthetic content and follow safeguards. Gen Z doesn’t need politicians to look young or speak their language. They want their concerns heard and addressed. The best way to connect with Gen Z is not through retro AI photos, but by responding to the issues they are raising.

N Nagarajan, Hyderabad

‘Hanuman Ansh’ hits a new high!

Theextraordinary box-office success of the modestly budgeted film Hanuman Ansh proves that genuine storytelling and emotional sincerity still resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Made without mega-star power, aggressive marketing, or high-tech spectacles, this film is on track to become one of the biggest hits of the year. The movie succeeds because it stays true to its roots. By focusing on the life, teachings, and philosophy of the revered mystic Neem Karoli Baba, it offers a clean, values-driven narrative centered on faith, love, and service to humanity. Its triumph sends a clear message to the film industry: clean dramas devoid of excessive violence, gore, and vulgarity can work wonders at the box office. The movie also shows that an intelligent filmmaker who prioritizes the soul of cinema over glitz and glamour will always find an audience. Hanuman Ansh is a refreshing reminder that powerful characterisation, good music, and a novel subject are the true pillars of filmmaking.

M Pradyu, Kannur