"The Thackeray family strictly needs Art of Living lessons" -- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. This quote had a prominent place on the front page of the Telegraph in Kolkata a couple of days ago. A bit surprising, since the language and tone is most unlike Guruji's -- so I decided to verify it from an eyewitness (earwitness?)
The scene was the launch of Meri Dilli Meri Yamuna, a unique citizens' initiative to clean the Yamuna river, with the blessings and guidance of Guruji.
Some journos were more intent on playing the Thackeray-Rahul Gandhi card, and repeatedly asked Guruji whether or not He felt that the Thackerays should do the Art of Living course. Finally, on being repeatedly pressed, He casually replied in the affirmative. And the above (mis)quote was what the papers reported, while completely ignoring the actual issue of cleaning the Yamuna!
Such a stupid and cheap way to garner readership -- I have refrained from commenting on the Indian media so far, though I feel it is at its lowest point ever -- but this was just too silly. It would be sillier if the Thackerays were to read this and start bashing up AOL teachers in Bombay/Mumbai :)
And the newspapers would have a field day either way -- even if we printed an angry riposte they would still benefit from the ensuing war of words. Its the Indian media that needs Art of Living lessons. Strictly.
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