Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Grace marks

The article "Appeal for grace marks" (Open Page, March 11) on the practice of students who are about to write their examinations or are expecting their results frequenting temples was timely. It exposes the students' confusion over the extent of their abilities and divine intervention. Most people in this generation have a materialistic view of religion. They are not to blame because it is society that has made them what they are. People pray only for the fulfilment of their desires. God is expected to do some favour in return for which people do some favour to god. The true purpose of religion and god has been forgotten.

Ujwal Unni,
Chennai

The article throws light on a common occurrence at the time of examinations. Students frequent temples more than adults do. It is disturbing that they lack confidence in themselves and depend on an external force to see them through examinations.

K. Satyavathi,
Thrissur

The rituals followed by parents and schools to enhance the performance of their children/students reduce the confidence of students and leave them confused when they meet with failures. They are rendered unable to make a realistic assessment of their setbacks. There is always a reason for poor performance. Teachers should help students to identify the factor and make them accept responsibility for their actions.

Rema Sivadas,
Kochi

Blessings are sought before any auspicious occasion, be it a wedding, launch of a new business or examinations. How can the practice be described as "fundamentally wrong"? Resorting to prayers alone, without doing the requisite hard work, is wrong. But when those who put in enough efforts offer prayers, I am sure they find them beneficial. The need of the hour, therefore, is to explain the significance of prayers to students to raise them from the level of a mere ritual, rather than telling them not to offer them at all.

Nainika Preet,
Patiala

Hard work, concentration, reassurance from parents and teachers combined with prayers will certainly improve the physical, mental, and intellectual preparedness of students. Visiting temples is a relaxing technique for today's youngsters who otherwise stay glued to computers and televisions. Prayer and meditation improve concentration.

Uma Raja,
Tiruchi

No one believes that prayer alone brings good marks. But hard work supplemented by confidence boosted by prayers certainly brings good results. The article exposes the author's lack of understanding of religious beliefs and practices.

V. Balakrishnan,
Chennai

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