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Satyagraha's relevance

This refers to the article "Three 9/11s — choose your own" (Sept. 11). Satyagraha, which Gandhiji conceived and personified, is a potent instrument of realising justice even today. It is important, however, to mobilise the young and instil awareness of the value of satyagraha in them. To convince them of the power of satyagraha and non-violence, given the portrayal of violence in the media as a quick and easy means to solving problems, will not be easy though.

Aravind Sridhar,
New Delhi

The world is slowly but surely realising that war not only takes away lives but also peaceful living. Looking back, we feel India was much safer five years ago. Today, even small towns across the country have become potential terrorist targets. The world too has seen a spate of attacks since 2001. A major cause for the proliferation of terror is the U.S.-led war on terror, which has polarised the world. It is time the world realised the value of the Mahatma's teachings.

Divakar Pai,
Thrissur, Kerala

Violence can only provide a short-term solution to a problem. It sows the seeds of revenge, which breeds more violence. The voice of reason and moral force alone can change a man from a fanatic to a man of peace. Martin Luther King was right when he said: "Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men."

D. Balakrishnan,
Coimbatore

In the era of weapons of mass destruction, Gandhiji's WMD — weapon of mass disobedience — may have lost its sheen. But even today, it is as potent a weapon as it was in the Gandhian era. If put to the test, satyagraha and non-violence will stand tall on their own merit.

D. Bikramsingh,
Cuttack, Orissa

Many have posed the question whether satyagraha can cope with fanaticism. We always look for instant results, which is why we do not take a single step towards non-violence. We always assume that another Gandhi should descend on the scene but never search for the Gandhi in us.

Vivek Pathak,
Varanasi, U.P.

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