Dear Indian Muslims,
I'd like to introduce myself as a Hindu girl born and brought up in India. I belong to the growing educated Indian middle class.

I often hear reports and views of people today who look at you as a community that has empathy for, or even support anti-national activity, terrorism or just a cricket match played by Pakistan against India.
I just want to tell you that I DON'T think that way, and there are many and many like me. I have regard for you just as one human being would have for another, and our respective religions come nowhere in the picture. You are my fellow countryman/ woman whom I consider to be equally if not more trustworthy, patriotic and lovable as any Indian Hindu. I do not see the imaginary lines of division forced upon us by politicians, religious fundamentalsists and other separatists forces. In short, I love, respect and trust you.

It sometimes pains me though why I don't hear your heart's voice- pure and individualistic and humanitarian- in the midst of the drowning sounds of religious fanaticism, like a spark in the dark. Perhaps you have your own reasons to be silent..

Coincidentally Gandhi Jayanti is closeby. We could do with a long lost Jadoo ki Jhappi on its eve.

Love and take care,
Flickering Candle