The Supercrat
Brajesh Mishra, Vajpayee's principal secretary, has emerged as a strong power centre. But his critics say he has bitten off more than he can chew and has become the target of a proxy war against the prime minister.

Going Beyond Square One
India and Pakistan make subtle shifts in their positions on Kashmir, raising hopes of a renewed dialogue and restoration of peace. Much will depend on what happens during Ramzan.

Fifth Column
by Tavleen Singh
Multinational Myths

Prime Movers

Action Manifested

FLIPSIDE

Oh! Dear

By Dilip Bobb

In this age of mobile communication and e-mail the art of letter writing is fading fast. Soon, most people will have forgotten how to put pen to paper, which can cause major problems in certain situations. Some samples:

  Dear Mr Kher,

  This may sound like a Hindi film script, but The God of Game Shows (alias TRP) has decided that you, Manisha Koirala and SDCK are three sides of a very obtuse triangle. And since you two, more rather than less, wind up saying the same thing, one of you will have to be eliminated. We took an audience poll and the vote goes against you. It is, after all, Sawal Dus Crore Ka. However, we are pleased to enclose a gold coin worth Rs 10,000 and a copy of Television News.
  Be Zeeing You,
  Subhash Chandra

  Dear Ms Banerjee,

  This is in response to your letter of resignation. It is in the true spirit of self-sacrifice and Gandhian principles, qualities for which you are admired by all of us in the BJP and among your cabinet colleagues in the NDA. Accidents do happen and all share the dread of being derailed when we are embarked on such an exciting journey together. It will not be the same without you occupying an upper berth in the Cabinet. I am therefore happy/privileged/grateful/delirious at the chance to refuse to accept your resignation. And all the rest that will surely follow.
  Your biggest fan,
  Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

  Dear Mr Rathore,

You were doing a wonderful job in controlling the law and order situation in Haryana. Ever since the incident in Meham many years ago, I have always believed that a few broken heads or cases of molestation are a necessary price to pay for the greater goal. I became chief minister, didn't I? If all police officers were like you, there wouldn't be a single crime worth the fir it's written on. Enjoy your leave. If you need any further recommendations, let me know.
  Om Prakash Chautala.

  Dear Priyanka,

The nation is going through a crisis. There's darkness everywhere ever since we lost our status as a VIP constituency and they cut the free electricity. The factories are shut, there's no work. We need another Gandhi to lead us to the promised land. You are the only one who can save us, our families, the party, the country, and usher in world peace. You have our blessings.
  Yours in anticipation,
  The voters of Amethi

  Darling Hrithik,

We are all shocked to hear that you are planning on getting married shortly. We would like to warn you of the consequences. The week after your wedding, film magazines will say your marriage is on the rocks, that you are involved with your latest co-star and your career is finished. As the man on whom rests the future of the industry, please don't go through with this.
  Yours in dread,
  The Indian Film Industry Association

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