Obsessed with foreign praise

The Asian Age (16 June 2008)

Obsessed with foreign praise

Indians are unnecessarily obsessed with what foreigners think about India (How not to pick a story from Net litter, Of Cabbages & Kings – Farrukh Dhondy, June 14). Our countrymen are convinced of their talents only when praise comes from foreigners. Some years ago, Aamir Khan, one of the finest Indian actors (who avoids all Indian award ceremonies), went all out to lobby for his movie Lagaan at the Oscars. It was more important for Aamir Khan to receive a pat on the back from the Western viewers than applause from the Indian audience. That is the typical Indian mentality. However, if the country wants to progress, it will need to shed this attitude and take pride in its achievements.

Ketan R. Meher