Shobha, I think your column is excellent; except for the repeated reference to Bharat Natyam. I think you have lived in Chennai. You should know that none of the "moral police" running about in Chennai would themselves watch Bharat Natyam. In fact, for most of them Bharat Natyam is an "Aryan" dance form with mostly Telugu lyrics. They would call Carnatic music and Bharat Natyam and any finer classical art as in opposition to Tamil culture. The issue is at stake is not between rock music and dance in dance floors and Bharat Natyam. By implying that you are doing a disservice. Classical arts are present all over the world with a dedicated small audience. There is nothing wrong in that. The issue is between a set of Dravidian parties, that wilfully disrespect and try to control women, and the rest of us. The issue is more about controlling women (mostly) and young people, than anything to do with Tamil culture. Dravidian parties do not consider Bharat Natyam or Carnatic music as a part of Tamil culture anyway. So stop insulting Bharat Natyam watchers. I am young and I watch Bharat Natyam as well as rock bands. Please don't fit us into your imaginary categories.
