Chennai - What is happening?

Chennai as we know is one of the more conservative metros in our country. Somehow, most of us are proud to know that we have managed to retain our culture against the increasing influence of western culture. But over time, I think our politicians have gone overboard by trying to "enforce culture".

A couple of months back I read about the illogical censoring of a Tamil movie that was released almost a year ago. Apparently, it was re-censored because politicians felt that the movie was immoral and was degrading our culture. They protested by felling 50 year old trees on national highways. Incase you hadnt notice, these trees are the real reason for our degrading moral values !! Anyways, thats a different issue altogther. Now, coming to another important issue.

For the last 2 weeks, Chennai was at the center of media attention unfortunately for all the bad reasons. First off, it was actress Khushboo who had to apologize for airing her views on pre-marital sex. Then, it was a 5 star hotel whose license was revoked and had to close because a few party crashing journalists found couples kissing on the dance floor. And lastly, a engineering college student was 'ragged' by his principal and staff for wearing a dark coloured shirt and talking to girls! Blasphemous!!!

As regards to Khushboo's views, I personally dont agree to it and neither do many other people in Tamilnadu. So what? Does that in anyway change her right to say what she wants? Doesnt she live in a country that gives its citizens freedom of speech? I used to think so. But, I am having serious doubts now. So, Khushboo said something and you dont like it. Go ahead and voice your protest. But, burning her effigies? Legal actions? Isnt that going a little too far. We have to understand that different people have different opinions and learn to tolerate views you dont agree with or support.

About closing Park hotel. People, tell me - WHAT THE HELL IS HAPPENING? Kissing is now crime? That too on dance floors. I think the police and politicians should realize that they have more important things to take care of. Does the police diary read something like this:

1. Capture/Kill Veerappan - DONE
2. Find couples kissing on 5 star hotel dance floors and revoke licenses - DONE
3. ....
4. ....

The couple happened to be guests at a private party. Whats wrong in them kissing each other. Maybe the party crashing journalists should be arrested for trespassing.

Lastly, a student from MNM Jain Engineering college, Chennai was pulled up by his principal for breaching the dress code by wearing a red shirt to college. If you might remember, all engineering colleges under Anna University are bound by 'The Dress Code' which bans T-shirts and jeans. But, this college has taken it to a whole new level by adding additional regulations banning dark colored shirts. Are we in Chennai darkest days?

Seriously people. Something's wrong.