More mom bombs

Comfort and convenience are now what largely determine a woman's choice of outfit (' Like daughter, like mother', September 10). Gone are the days when a woman's marital status and her place in the family tree decided or influenced her dress sense. Even grandmothers and mothers-in-law want to look young and fashionable these days. This is a reflection of the persona of an average modern Indian woman today, independent and capable of making her own decisions that she is. As long as such women are confident in their attire, with society accepting new age grannies and mums too, this trend will continue to rise.

Niharika Ghosh, via email

Blushing to bold

With regard to your article on a show of posters of old Cgrade films (September 10), it is true that with changing times the gap between the conventional heroine and the tantalising vamp has thinned down to the point where there is no distinction between the two now. Women in our films are generally portrayed as attractive commodities rather than performing artists, which was the case unti the 1970's at least. But one thing is certain: a show of cinema posters of yesteryears' classic films would have attracted a varied audience in the past too;unlike the one cited in the article, which would have likely moved only men to attend the show

Raghavan R, via email

Will to fight terror

This refers to your cover story 'Ours but to do and die', (September 10). The government cannot keep taking shelter under the convenient umbrella that the phrase 'global terrorist problem' provides. Have we learnt any useful lessons from our past experience? Public anger seen at Ram Manohar Lohia hospital, Delhi, against certain political bigwigs, is like the writing on the wall. Such attacks cannot go on forever. Plug security loopholes, check laxity in policing and narrow down the space that terrorists use. Strong political will, educating the people and going out of the way and seeking their co-operation to fight this scourge may help.

Sakunthala Seshanna, via email

Play Chinese checkers

The rise of China as pointed out in 'Decade of the dragon' (Comment, September 10) is something the world must look on with not just awe but also fear. China is a nation that believes it is now returning to its justified place in the world order and will tolerate no obstructions to that rise. India is a problem for it, which is why it arms, aids and supports Pakistan. Taking America's help to counter China will not help India in the long run. The US is only interested in maintaining its own supremacy by containing China, not helping India. It's time a standalone China policy is evolved by the Indian government to counter this dangerous Asian giant.

G N Vohra, via email