More about Bodhidharma

Reading your cover story on the Shaolin Temple was like having a feast. It was heartening to read about Bodhidharma, about whom there is very little information (‘Where India meets China’, January 17).

 

It is unfortunate that Bodhidharma’s exact birthplace is still not located. But, as a Malayali, I feel proud when they say that Shaolin kung fu has some resemblance to kalaripayat.

 

The first time I saw the film, The 36th chamber of Shaolin, I was astonished to see the tough lives that the monks of the Shaolin Temple lead.

 

P.D. Joseph,

On email.

 

Spot on, Aiyar

Perhaps Mani Shankar Aiyar is right in advising the Congress to consider a nationwide confederal electoral alliance as an alternative to the BJP-led Union government (‘Mani-festo’, January 17).

 

Hats off to Aiyar’s loud, clear and sagacious forethought and vision, and societal consciousness. He is perhaps the unique luminary in THE WEEK’s galaxy of columnists.

 

J. Antony Pitchai,

Chennai.

 

I loved it

I enjoyed immensely your anniversary special double issue (December 31). I see it as a reference issue!

 

I, particularly, enjoyed the cover story on India’s eventful maritime past and the story on how a radical new theory redefines money.

 

A very special mention for enlightening us about Rani Abbakka, India’s first female freedom fighter. Kudos for bringing such little known facts to public attention. Keep up the good work.

 

Premchand Lengade,

Belgaum, Karnataka.