Sir,

I fully agree with Dr. Javeed Nayeem for his views on National Anthem expressed in his article titled “Forced Patriotism Falls Flat” in SOM dated July 28. Playing National Anthem mandatorily in cinema halls before the commencement of a movie is not a wise decision. Cinema theatres are places of entertainment drawing people from all classes, rich and poor, young and old, mild and wild, gentlemen and crooks and the like.

Majority of them having born after Independence in free India are not able to understand the significance of the freedom struggle, patriotism and sanctity of the National Anthem. Hence they tend to avoid National Anthem by remaining outside the auditorium when it is being played and suddenly scramble to their seats when it is over.

Is this not an indirect insult to the National Anthem? Patriotism should come as an in-born sentiment and not by enforcement by any law. Hence National Anthem is desirable to be played only in educational institutions to inculcate patriotism in the growing minds of the students and Government-sponsored functions where knowledgeable audience assemble. The proverb ‘You can take the horse to the water but you cannot make it drink’ applies here.

– V.R. Srinivasa Murthy, Brindavan Extension, 21. 8. 2017

NOTE: Try taking the horse to the water ONLY when it is thirsty. How about playing National Anthem in cinema theatres and at all public functions when the country is at war, and not in times of peace? Otherwise, it is played mandatorily as protocol on certain occasions and no matter we all should stand (unless disabled) and respect the National Anthem — Ed.

 You can also mail us your views, opinions, and stories to [email protected]