The Shah Rukh Khan affair at Newark - Still single in the city

The Shah Rukh Khan affair at Newark

Sushmita Bose - Sunday, August 16, 2009 2:56 PM

I have mixed feelings about Shah Rukh Khan being ‘grilled' by immigration officials at Newark airport. We all know Americans are a paranoid lot, and don't have the chalta hain attitude we do. It's probably more a good thing than bad -- from their point of view.

Post 9/11, terrorism has not raised its ugly head again in the US: the chief reason is because they border on being hyper about security. Compare that with India where repeated strikes in the country have still left us with gaping holes in our security system.

Americans are also paranoid about the issue of illegal immigrants: can't blame them really since there are far too many people wanting to get into the US by hook or by crook.

Of course, people like us, who don't want to be illegal immigrants in the US, get pissed off about all the fuss that is created to simply get a visa. But what to do? It's their country, and we have to play by their rules. The sensible thing to do would be to boycott travel to America in a fit of righteous rage -- but, alas, not too many people would want to do that! A few years ago, I went to get an American tourist visa, and I was told point-blank that it didn't matter that I had a perfectly good job and a good life here; the fact that I was ‘single' went against me. The visa officer actually said: "How do I know you won't find someone there and stay back?" When I shook my head incredulously, he asked me to produce ‘evidence' that I had fixed assets in India (like, a house in my name) - so that he could be sure I would come back home. "I'm only doing my job," he finally offered.

I never went back to the US Consulate after that, even though I did have a house in my name: I'd just bought one.

But the reason why I am not exactly seething in rage at SRK (even though I am a big fan of his) being made to spend a couple of hours (or is it one hour) at Newark is because it was a matter of protocol (this I gathered from whatever reports I have read -- but I have to admit I haven't been on top of this). There was some explanation trotted out: about his luggage not being in. Yes, right, he may be Shah Rukh Khan, the superstar; and somebody else may be Akbar Khan, an IT professional or a restaurant cook. But in my mind, Akbar Khan is no less a professional than SRK, so if Akbar Khan can get grilled, well, so can Shah Rukh. And I don't know why there is this big brouhaha about SRK having featured in Newsweek's list of famous people or whatever. The immigration officials probably don't read Newsweek. For every person they detain, they can't possibly run a search to find out if he or she is a film actor or a rock star in another country.

I absolutely hate it when I go to a cinema theatre in, say, Delhi and get frisked, and am asked to overturn my bag. I complain loudly about it and stop short of saying no frisking whatsoever happens in Dubai -- but beyond that there is precious little I can do other than not going to a movie hall. Dubai has never witnessed terror strikes; Delhi has. So they have every right to overturn my handbag. I may not like it -- but that's absolutely insignificant.

Whatever happened to SRK -- was it racial profiling? Sure it was. Americans are suspicious about Asians from our side for two reasons: whatever happened on 9/11, and the increasing number of illegal immigrants. Just as Pakistanis will be viewed with some amount of suspicion in India. Or a potential Muslim tenant will be if he is trying to rent out a place almost anywhere in India other than a ghetto. 

PS: Here's wishing AB and Mrs AB Many Happy Returns of the Day, and hope you have a great bash at the Habitat Centre tonight! Happiness always...
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165 Comment

From Kasturi and Snehasish

August 16, 2009 3:13 PM
We are preparing for a debate on this subject at our club this evening and would like to add something to what you said. For long, we have been hearing stories about certain sections of Bollywood being linked to the underworld, the very people who have had a hand in strikes in our city Mumbai. A film star is not a head of state so security personnel in other countries should definitely not overrule protocol. By comparing a film star with a head of state shows our shallowness.

From pawandeep

August 16, 2009 4:55 PM
You are right Sushmita, it is because of this attitute about security, no terrorist incident happend in US after 9/11. They have every right to protect their country. I think this incident has been blown out of proportion, for publicity stunt for his forthcoming movie..."My Name is Khan ". One more thing, if we allow sniffer dogs on pathway around Gandhiji's samadhi, just before President Bush visit, it is our fault not theirs. We should have our own security standards and these should be properly implemented. We react after the incident, but americans are so cautious, that they never allow the incident to happen. I think frisking of Dr Kalam was more serious a incident than this one.

From Jivi

August 16, 2009 5:00 PM
Our feeling of violation comes from the thought that THE ONE whom we Indians (and, perhaps SRK himself) consider God's gift to Womankind was treated as a possibly common criminal. Weighing the two perceptions together - the US authorities (temporary) vilification of SRK and our (on-going) deification of him - it is clear that the US authorities seem to have relied on on racial/religious/nomenclature profiling and we rely on his celluloid /public profile. Neither type of profiling can be reliable. It would be best if Indians could forget about SRK's "humiliation" and divert the outrage to the kinds of unfair profiling we do against our own people - against non-Hindi speakers, for instance, in Delhi International airport.

From Mayank

August 16, 2009 5:21 PM
Although that was highly uncalled for, and shows the degree of paranoia, but it still serves us right- coz most of us Indians are highly obsessed with U.S. of Amrikka. Hope the US celebs now get a red channel, instead of the red carpet welcome!

From rahman

August 16, 2009 5:49 PM
shahrukh should have done or behaved that way to get detained at the airport for so long to make a story and get publicity for "my name is khan". how many times he travelled n this happened now giving support n marketing for his new flick. every one who believes him are fool

From Indranil

August 16, 2009 5:55 PM
There is a subtle difference between being obsessive and being crazy.. US has now achieved the second state.. its good that they are obsessed about their security but then viewing every other 'Khan'(or any muslim name) through the lense of prejudice is simply intolerable.. this attitude of theirs is the reason why the "Guantanamo Bays" and "Abu Gharibs" have happened where, as the figures suggest, 90% of the captives tortured were innocent..And one shouldnt forget that this paranoia that the US has achieved led to even APJ being frisked..wasn't that humiliating in the least ?? and for that matter even Britain had been attacked by the same perpetrators of crime..how many times have we heard the English indulging in such craziness ??

From Reena

August 16, 2009 6:31 PM
Big deal! I was detained for two hours at Newark airport last Christmas for my finger print not matching my last visits. I live in London and a regular visitor to NYC - these things get thrown up occassionaly, sometimes even due to a glitch in the system. Yes, I was annoyed but we move on and choose to perhaps return to the US again inspite of knowing such an occassion may repeat itself. Its ok, theres no need to be so precious about it - Shahrukh Khan is just another somebody, just like the rest of us.

From Dave Jones

August 16, 2009 6:37 PM
Who is Shahrukh Khan? No one cares in the USA. He is a mere dancer and actor who works in movies to earn a living. He is just a common man and I am glad he was interrogated like any other man would have been and he should be treated no differently and he has no value in USA.

From sushmita

August 16, 2009 6:47 PM
Kasturi and Snehasish: Good point abt Bollywood being hands in glove with the underworld -- and therefore no one being aboveboard of protocol. The best thing, as Renna points out, is to move on. Pawandeep: I don't think we 'react' after the incident even. Give them a few days, and it's back to their sloppy ways. Have you watched A Wednesday? Please do if you haven't, you won't be disappointed! Indranil: Better safe than sorry, right? Even if it's humiliating, it's at least some guarantee that security has been tight. Jivi: Reports now say that he was held up for only an hour. Don't think they are lying -- coz SRK is not really all that important.

From Carol Taylor

August 16, 2009 6:56 PM
No, Indians and others are NOT overreacting to the bad treatment given Shahrukh Khan a few days ago here in the United states. I am a born in the USA Caucasian with no Indian or Asian background at all and Shahrukh Khan is the MOST famous movie star in the world as far as I and many of the people I know feel. From the first time I saw one of his movies in 2003 he's been my own favorite movie star EVER and all other actors and entertainers are nothing compared to him. He's the most talented, witty and sensually attractive performer in the world...and most everyone in the world except Caucasians in the US and Canada know that....but here people don't watch movies with subtitles so they are missing knowing of the greatest talent alive today.

From Khan

August 16, 2009 7:00 PM
What has happened with SRK at Newark International Airport is just okay. He, at least, got the lesson that only by reciting Hanuman Chalisa at the television does not prove that he is a practicing Hindu. The name speaks for itself

From sushmita

August 16, 2009 7:00 PM
Carol: Shah Rukh may be the greatest actor of all time, the most handsome man on the planet and have the world's best sense of humour. But all these 'talents' do not qualify him as being more important than international security.

From Babloo

August 16, 2009 7:06 PM
When it happened with SRK, all of us came to know what Americans do to welcome their guests. It is a very common treatment with Indo-pak people who travel to U.S. My sincere advise to you all, never travel to US via Canada. They really give hard time if you try to enter through Canada

From Steve and Linda Bean

August 16, 2009 7:07 PM
As an American, and a big fan of SRK, we find it embarrassing that this happened. Speaking for ourselves, and many other Americans, we are very sorry about this. We disagree totally with Dave Jones' comment, and apologize for the arrogance. Shahrukh Khan is a great actor. He has contributed to bringing tolerance and understanding to the world. He has many fans here in the US.

From Nick

August 16, 2009 7:12 PM
I completely understand that Shahrukh Khan must be frustrated at what has happened to him. Does it mean that just because he is a global icon he should be glorified. I am a fan of Shahrukh and the bollywood fraternity,but if you have not done anything wrong why are you angered by this events. The person that probably flagged Shahrukh for the reason probably did not know Shahrukh and he/she/there were doing their job. If every person that is famous is not out into such checkups what does that mean for the rest of us "unknowns".. Im not saying that Shahrukh is involved any illegal activities that could harm a city/state/countery, but if we stopped screening people based on Iconic status, would that not put them at higher risks from the people that want to harm the country? What if terrorists recruited an "iconic" person because they know he/she wont be pulled over for questioning? What harm would happen later.. Its better to be safe then sorry and have no rules set aside for Icons... For crying out loud, he is just an Actor who is not even on a diplomatic passport... So what if he was screened... Its for our safety......

From sushmita

August 16, 2009 7:14 PM
Nick, well said. You hit the nail on the head.

From Baat

August 16, 2009 7:18 PM
What has happened with SRK at Newark Airport is quite embarrassing. Our government should take a step to prevent such things with our Icons in future. The same thing or even worse had happened with George Fernendes but we people are so calm & quite and tolerate every injustice or insult

From Ratnagiri77

August 16, 2009 7:19 PM
If Brad Pitt were detained en route to India for security purposes, you can be sure that there would be an ENORMOUS hoopla over it. Racial profiling is real in the U.S. It does not make us safer here-- it creates more resentment. Safety lies in foreign policy solutions, not arbitrary security standards that regard SRK as a threat because of his nationality or his last name.

From Khan

August 16, 2009 7:21 PM
My Dear Nick, Mr.George Fernendes had a diplomatic passport when the same had happened with him

From Sid

August 16, 2009 7:31 PM
Someone said to me that SRK is India's pride. Though, I have serious objection to it, but lets take pride in the fact that we are treated better than India's pride. May be this is a bad joke, but this is SRK's brand of humour. Get out of colonial mindset guys. Who stopped us to frisk Brad Pitt (although, he is truly Global!)! Now, this guy will go all out to extract maximum publicity for his upcoming film.

From sunny

August 16, 2009 7:32 PM
@Ratnagiri77: I too am an Indian living in the US and I am perfectly alright with the price I pay for freedom I get here. Yes, Brad Pitt being detained at an Indian airport would have been ENORMOUS because the practice of detention does not exist at security points -- which the reason why terrorists get free access into all parts.

From Jyotin

August 16, 2009 7:35 PM
Given the facts are unknown yet, detaining Khan by itself should not be blown out of proportion. As a US citizen, I am more concerned with how the detainee is treated during this time. We in America firmly hold that one is innocent until proven otherwise. The Homeland Security officer is expected to question SRK in a courteous manner and when given an explanation should verify the response through various means. Homeland security has many Indians in their security ranks, and they too are a source of verification. Were any of them consulted when SRK said he was an actor? During this time I would expect that SRK is informed of the process and to the extent possible made comfortable. Yes, there is a powerful air of paranoia that has a strong grip on these officials. However, Paranoia in a free country cannot be a substitute for reasonable and courteous behavior. We expect them to do their jobs diligently and hold them accountable for our safety while maintaining our basic belief of innocent until proven guilty. Granted Homeland security do not have to watch SRK movies, but I expect that SRK is treated as should all, with professional courtsey. Rumor has it response given to SRK was "I don't care if you are a famous actor"; if true this is just plain ego of someone in uniform with a badge and a gun making himself more important than the citizen sentiments of our great country. This attitude if manifest in the workings of Homeland security; cannot stand. As citizens we should not accept this behavior badge or no badge!

From Jane

August 16, 2009 7:51 PM
all he had to say was "google my name" . I bet he threatened to make them lose their jobs or something if they don't let him go, I can almost imagine it.

From Farawayjfk

August 16, 2009 8:38 PM
Jyotin, agree with you, the focus should be on how the detention was conducted. Also yes identifying somebody well known as SRK (he has a bigger fan base then Brad Pitt; though not in the US) should be easier. And while security should never have a holiday, an attitude of "guilty unless proven an innocent Khan" is what fuels mistrust, dislike, a compromised self esteem and more. now publicity stunt for SRK's upcoming movie or otherwise, there is no smoke without fire. In the past there have been several similar situations with others (Kamal hassan was one for those who followed that story few years back) that have led to an fodder for depiction of this stereotype in recent movies like "new york" among others The big question is can one get basic respect during a security screening or interogation process ? or will a khan be classified as " Guilty unless proven an innovent khan" by homeland security ? Paranoia as the justified cause for the same. Uniformed badges holding the power of a gun in the US have been racially steriotyping people, classic recent case is of Prof Gates. I am not wanting to draw a comparasion to SRK and his interrogating officer with the Gates Arrest, but i believe that its this precise stereotyped mindset that will lead to a detremental society for all ! those who really care about respect and preserving the values that the US once stood for have to stand up and be heard.

From Yeowsa

August 16, 2009 8:51 PM
I travel a lot internationally and have had a number of non-serious "hassles" at border crossings in my time. As a guest when visiting other countries, i accept their security rules and never consider that i am more important than any other visitor. An arrogant "Do you know who I am ?" response to security questions can lead to a " We have a man who does not know who he is" type of response. It is a foolish thing to do. Thinking oneself better than fellow travellers is ignorant and a mistake; i've seen it and do not like it. For what it's worth, almost 100% of Americans, educated or not, travelled or not, sophisticated or not have never heard of or could care less about Shah Rukh Khan. Mr. Kahn is just another visitor to the USA.

From Leighann Dickson

August 16, 2009 9:19 PM
I am also an American who is a big fan of SRK, but not in this instance. I can't help but think, any publicity is good publicity and this will do wonders for his identity here in the US which mostly doesn't know anything about him and could care less. Ironicly he is here promoting a movie about racial profiling and this happens, and I do not believe in coincedences. I can't help but think his attitude of.."I am a great movie star, how dare you question me" didn't fly so well here. You aren't royalty here, and if you really feel so strongly, don't come back, sad, but we'll survive. Sorry SRK, get over it. I get pulled out of line and questioned/frisked all the time, as does my 26 year old niece, and I am just a forty year old average pale face with an English sir name.

From Jay

August 17, 2009 12:08 AM
The cultural misconceptions work both ways - Americans may not be fully aware of all the superstars or culture norms of India , but, based on your article, you exhibit the same lack of knowledge about America. America is far more advanced in ethnic harmony then India is even though it's existed for thousands of years and America for a few hundred. Given that America is not used to terrorist strikes , if 9/11 had happened in India there would be mass riots against muslims (remember Gujurat) - but in America there were only isolated incidents. If you ever travel here you'll notice something amazing - in Newark airport the large percentage of the front-line security people are Gujurati (figure one guy got in and brought friends and family). In DC and Boston airports they are muslim (you can tell since the women wear scarfs). Imagine that. And btw VIP Americans get stopped and detained all the time since there names are on the list. India has realize that if your important and you get stopped , at least in America, the law and protocol still applies to you.

From max paz

August 17, 2009 2:38 AM
IF You don't want to follow LAW OF THE LAND then do not visit that land.Mr.SRK your bollywood makes more money from US distribution of indian movies then India.There are more ill treatment reports at airports from middleeast countries where YOUR friends operate from. So,shut up and go back to India and never show up here again.Oh,Yeh you need dollars for your friends then you will show up again here I bet.!!!!!!!!

From wendi

August 17, 2009 2:54 AM
I really dont think SRK is bother by this at all...It was just airport security measures...Why is it such an insult to the Indian community..SRK is doing fine..And I believe this will bring people to see this movie that he here to promote...He is GORGEOUS!..Love you Shah Rukh Khan!!! Im not Indian and I love this man!! Indian community need to relax..He's fine..

From Kiran

August 17, 2009 3:03 AM
Whatever has happened to srk is not because of his religion, but I'm sure it was just random checking. People in India are use to persons who are famous or high profile getting special treatment just because of their status. People who are angry at this, and think srk should have been let off just because he is "srk, the superstar from bollywood", well sorry, but that's not how things work here. In US, the law is equal for everyone, regardless of who you are, period. The people at Newark, were just doing their duty, and that is their right. I know since 9/11, it might seem like Americans have taken it too far to protect homeland security and seem paranoid, but if that's what it takes to secure our borders, well then something is going to have to give. Its just unfortunate that innocent people who are travelling have to be subject to this scrutiny at airports, but that is the only way to ensure or minimize the chances of another 9/11 happening again. I was one time at the airport getting ready to board my flight when one of the security personnel just happen to pull me out of the line randomly with other people and asked us to take our shoes off to see if they were safe. That's just the way something things have to be and its just best to cooperate and go along with it. My question to all those angry fans out there is, would they all be just as angry had this happened to a common man from the same religion as srk. No I don't think so. Indians are saying srk was discriminated against, but there is discrimnation in India as well. People only support eachother of the same cast and religion and riots can be easily started in the name of religion whereas people here in US are much more tolerant, and politicians here don't exploit religion as a means to gain more popularity. @Sushmita..I don't agree at all with you, when you said that it was racial profiling. Such checks are common with alot of people of different backgrounds, and rules are rules, regardless of who you are. This attitude of "hey do you know who I am?" just doesn't hold here in US. If indians don't like it then they need to stay out.

From Masood Rizvi

August 17, 2009 3:19 AM
Nothing comes before safety and security. I don't understand why the people want extra benefits and avoiding usual processes. This event is a shame for SRK and he also make other Indians and Muslim in the same category. He can be some one who know acting and can entertain the people, why he think that he is so special that he should get VVIP treatment everywhere in the world. Every country is strictly concern about their homeland security and a visitor has to follow them. I am an Indian and muslim (and I proud on my nationality) worked in many european and north american countries, didn't get any problem due to my nationality or religion. Only thing to say for Mr SRK, "learn how to be a common man" if you know the meaning of common.

From Kiran

August 17, 2009 3:38 AM
Just a couple of important things I forgot. To all out there who think this happened to srk just because he is muslim, and is racial profiling and he should have been let off because of his "superstar" status. US is the same country who impeached the then President Bill Clinton who was still in power at the time because of that whole Monica Lewinsky thing. They didn't let him go so easily and he was the President! Some of you are forgetting this is the same country that elected its first African American President who does have some Muslim lineage from his father's side and his middle name is Muslim! Somthing for some of you to think about who are trying to make this out ot be a racial thing. I agree with some people in here who say nothing comes before homeland security, nothing! If I was one of those authorities at Newark who grilled SRK, and knew who he was, I would still do exactly what they did and go by the rule book. Maybe this was the first time SRK, got a dose of what it was like to be a "common" man so he just didn't know how to react.

From russtex

August 17, 2009 4:24 AM
Americans are sick to death of people pulling the race card at every turn. I'm white and American and I've been detained at random.. No big deal. got over it and went about my day. If Shah Rukh Khan wants to play race cards and even make a film about it, which is why he is here, fine. It would be far more noble of him to make a film portraying how his lost Muslim extremist brothers are so lost and misled they blame Americans for everything wrong in their own lives. Try raising concerns about that injustice rather than coming over here to America and pulling the race card because you were detained for 10 minutes because of a natural reaction to terrorism. Meanwhile your brothers are burning American flags... Where is the real injustice?

From Thakur Sajnani

August 17, 2009 8:01 AM
It is a non-story-a result of a slow news day

From Jaix

August 17, 2009 8:20 AM
Max Paz, People like you should occasionally use your brains instead of mouthing off like an loud boorish idiot. The reaction of the fans comes from a news report that Shah Rukh was arrested/detained and hence the public outcry. The reports were obviously wrong. The next point is that it was our Independence day and he was heading for an event where was the primary guest. It is natural to be frustrated to be detained for "secondary" checks especially if you have been to the country several times a year. This event comes close on heels to another incident where Continental Airlines violated a protocol by frisking the ex-president of India who happened to be a muslim. Also Shah Rukh's bodyguard was denied a visa. Is it possible that Shah Rukh's outburst is due to an accumulation of several such events? Quite possibly. Melissa Bell is her article proudly wrote that even senator Kennedy was not allowed to get a plane ticket. If a person such as Ed Kennedy can't get a ticket for months because of some mix-up with his name, it is a pretty stupid system of security. It is nothing to be proud off. Don't compare India to US. Pakistan uses billions of dollars of aid from US in promoting anti-Indian groups. Plus we share a common border with several countries who themselves have poor security and in addition plain hostile. So where is the comparison?? Don't talk about the law of the land. There are plenty of your countrymen in India who go there to do drugs. And oh! there are a plenty of wealthy Americans/celebrities who get away with awful crimes. And in this case no one has committed any crime. I am not a muslim and neither am I a fan of Shah Rukh but I do understand his frustration. It is because of ignorant morons like you that makes resentment grow for foreigners abroad.

From rk

August 17, 2009 8:35 AM
what's the fuss all about; no one seemed to bother when our former president Dr Kalam grilled in India by a foreign airline and the country seems to be over reactive when it is the SRK..their country , their law..let them what they wanna do. India must learn something and act accordingly...no difference between a cine star or a general public.

From Dennis Freeman

August 17, 2009 8:50 AM
I think Khan is not all that mad at what happened to hom. He understands the needs for security checks at airports. The security personal here in USA are very poorly paid. When you are white and paid just a little over 10 dollars an hour, you wouldn't miss an opportunity to show the power of the badge to a color of man.

From js

August 17, 2009 10:25 AM
u guys r right to a point...but no one notised one thing...srk said that he had been checked many times but this time it wasn't as always...earlier he was used to this kind of treatment but it use to take little time...this time it took 2 hrs....and u cannot deny that he's a global icon...he's worked hard for it...also,if the gentlemen din't new him he cud have searched at net, after all america is said to b one of the most advanced country...the result wud have been more than of brat pit+tom cruise... one more thing...it ok when we hear of common man, but dear u cannot deny that he's a world renouned figure...many countries have hounered him...ok let srk b common for u...but was ex-president mr. a b j abul kalam was also an ordinary man...just imagine barak obama, bill clintin or jorge bush being frisked at any airport in any other country....

From js

August 17, 2009 10:27 AM
u guys r right to a point...but no one notised one thing...srk said that he had been checked many times but this time it wasn't as always...earlier he was used to this kind of treatment but it use to take little time...this time it took 2 hrs....and u cannot deny that he's a global icon...he's worked hard for it...also,if the gentlemen din't new him he cud have searched at net, after all america is said to b one of the most advanced country...the result wud have been more than of brat pit+tom cruise... one more thing...it ok when we hear of common man, but dear u cannot deny that he's a world renouned figure...many countries have hounered him...ok let srk b common for u...but was ex-president mr. a b j abul kalam was also an ordinary man...just imagine barak obama, bill clintin or jorge bush being frisked at any airport in any other country....

From js

August 17, 2009 10:27 AM
u guys r right to a point...but no one notised one thing...srk said that he had been checked many times but this time it wasn't as always...earlier he was used to this kind of treatment but it use to take little time...this time it took 2 hrs....and u cannot deny that he's a global icon...he's worked hard for it...also,if the gentlemen din't new him he cud have searched at net, after all america is said to b one of the most advanced country...the result wud have been more than of brat pit+tom cruise... one more thing...it ok when we hear of common man, but dear u cannot deny that he's a world renouned figure...many countries have hounered him...ok let srk b common for u...but was ex-president mr. a b j abul kalam was also an ordinary man...just imagine barak obama, bill clintin or jorge bush being frisked at any airport in any other country....

From ani

August 17, 2009 10:46 AM
partly this happened because in countries like US, UK, they treat everybody alike, whether somebody is a celebrity or not, unlike in our country. Tony Blair was held for travelling ticketless sometime ago. And partly because i think there were these rumours of this bollywood-D link but i believe none of the stars are linked even if they might have danced in their parties out of fear for them (U world).

From Picasso at work

August 17, 2009 11:20 AM
Bigotry. Racism. Paranoia. Harassment. Bureaucratic obstinacy. Theorists have provided all the charismatic theories and people have heeded them enough in great measures. Srk was detained. So??? Why was he detained? C’mon, he is the superstar who happens to have The "king khan" emblazoned on his back, he is the heartthrob, yadda yadda and yadda. Quick question- how many of us (Indians) are aware of how Al Pacino looks like? Leave us aside look, how many of our officials are aware about its existence? Same goes for Johnny Depp and Aneglina Jolie or another Brad Pitt. Then which sane person suggests that the arrogant Americans should have the know how of common Bollywood "jaankari". You feel humiliated going to U.S.A? Then drop the idea. Do not venture into their nation. It is their nation and tomorrow if anything untoward happens, they will not want their politeness to be held responsible for it.

From shalini

August 17, 2009 11:36 AM
Its not about somebody having an inflated ego or about how celebrities at home should be exempted from such security checks (including former president Kalam). But sushmita, I would just like to see Bill Clinton being frisked in India. Or Brad Pitt and his pouting wife being detained on "security grounds"...Well, if we cant frisk Clinton, I'm sorry, you cant frisk Kalam. If the rules apply equally to all, then there is no issue at all. But this second rate treatment, so typically US.

From Sandi Mann

August 17, 2009 12:10 PM
Most of you here, not being SRK fans, don't know the most of the facts (and probably don't care anyway) Shah Rukh was NOT in US to promote his movie - it's not even completed yet, but was invited to appear at the Indian Independence celebrations in Chicago and Houston. This he does for his beloved fans (tho he reluctantly had to leave a sick wife and daughter back home). Shah Rukh himself understands the need for security and does not consider himself above necessary checks, but the whole thing was handled very badly. He never ever expects VIP treatment. Several people at the airport recognised him and were taking pix on their phones etc and this was known to the Immigration officials. One particularly officious worker (drunk with power obviously)refused to show any diplomacy in his handling of the matter. Shah Rukh's luggage was delayed by the airport...is that his fault? and he was travelling alone without an entourage expected of the biggest movie star in the world (his bodyguard had been refused a visa because his name is also Khan). As someone very shy and self-effacing in person (he still blushes when given a compliment) Shah Rukh felt very awkward and intimidated, and under the circumstances was nervous about answering questions in case of inflaming the situation. Shah Rukh himself has stated that it was no biggie. It is his fans and countrymen who have protested at the indignity imposed on him, but because of his huge renown, this matter has been given worldwide attention and he finds himself the face of controversy into how this could have been handled in a more appropriate manner - not just for himself, but for everyone who has to endure this treatment. Maybe something good will come of it. He wasn't allowed a phone call for almost an hour, and why did the questioning take so long? There isn't a finer human being, nor one more innocent than Shah Rukh, as anyone who knows anything about him will attest.

From Henry Thompson

August 17, 2009 12:14 PM
Shalini. You are talking about US not India. One protects its borders - ones fails! Also its SRK not Brad Pitt. Show his photo to Euros and US folk - they would think he runs the corber Kebab shop. Sorry dear - apart from fanatical indian movie goers - none knows him, no one really cares.

From Anand

August 17, 2009 12:22 PM
@Sushmita: Fully agree with you here. I don't see what all the hoopla is about. SRK got questioned at immigration in US - Big deal! Thousands of eminent honest people get questioned every year - so why should SRK get any special treatment? The important thing is to ensure that public safety is upheld and if it means that a few celebrities might also get their hair ruffled then that's perfectly fine.

From ani

August 17, 2009 12:42 PM
would like to tell mr. HT that majority of Indians except for some city dwellers either do not know who Mr. Brad Pitt or Jolie are, or just do not care.

From sushmita

August 17, 2009 2:57 PM
JS: oh please, everyone works hard to be something or the other. Why should immigration officers do web searches to see if SRK is an icon or not? And how does his being an icon set him apart from protocol?

From sushmita

August 17, 2009 3:02 PM
Ani: SRK is unknown to most non-Indians in the US -- we all know that. The point here is if Brad Pitt was asked by immrigation officials to stick to protocol, would he have created this sort of unnecessary ruckus?

From shalini

August 17, 2009 3:30 PM
@Henry, you make me laugh with your argument about Pitt being more well known than SRK! a)Well, if people in India know Pitt and people there don't knw SRK, its prob coz we are more abreast of world cinema! I am hardly a Shah Rukh fan, actually far frm tht (i have serious reservations about Pitt as well!), but it is about treating people equally. b)You make me laugh with your comparison coz that is not even the damn point here. You are right, we all ought to protect out borders and nobody not in office should get away from protocol...so i mean NOBODY. not pitt, jolie, their 12000 children or madonna or julia roberts, or shahrukh khan,amitabh bachchan or anyone. In the same vein, not kalam and hence, not bill clinton either. @Sushmita,you got my point I think, its precisely what I am syaing. Not about who knows whom or whatever-pointless argument.

From sanjay

August 17, 2009 3:32 PM
Sushmita, Does everybody has to go through the protocal of one and half hour at all airports in US...Why the Hindu bodu gurad of SRK was set free when he alongwith his other muslim bodyguard was grilled... Anyway we cant chnage the way US works but definitely we can learn from it and grill all the americans (The way brazil is doing now)starting from Brad pitt to Bill Clinton whoever comes to india..Aftrall our national security is paramount too...Who will give the guarantee that the american gueast is not a CIA agent..

From Khusro Kamran

August 17, 2009 4:07 PM
Immigration officers in USA are just to create problems with every muslim name. Although, the muslim minority in USA is the most peaceful one. They arent in to drugs, clubbing and drinking, they never loose their consciousness, they arent loud as Hispanics and African Americans are...still Muslims and not Moslems are under scrutiny. The most ironic part is wise and sane people in USA have called the officials to reinvestigate the 9/11 tragedy, as everyone who have studied it properly belives that two planes couldnt have brought the twin towers down, there was some inner involvement too. But, obviously this gets ignored all the time and innocent people with no terrorist background or knowledge are mentally crucified with dog shit. I am in a way glad it happened with Shahrukh Khan, a man of importance and global recognition, so VIPs would also know through him that, in reality USA is freaking out innocent people on just the name basis. This is holocast of Muslims. KK.

From sushmita

August 17, 2009 5:02 PM
Sanjay: I am guessing that the Hindu bodyguard probably had his luggage with him, and the other two didn't, which is why he wasn't detained. Many people on this blog -- even Americans -- have been writing to say that EVERYONE gets into the hassle of security checks. It so happened that the person in question was SRK. Every day, hundreds of people go through this ordeal, so he too had to go thru it -- so what is the big deal? If you are talking about the 'Muslim bashing' phenomenon, then let me tell you it doesn't happen in the US alone. Check out your own backyard for starters.

From Khan

August 17, 2009 6:09 PM
SRK should change his surname from Khan to Khanna so that he does not have any problem in future

From Krupa Thakrar

August 17, 2009 6:39 PM
Hi Sushmita Krupa here. I 'm a journalist with the BBC World Service Radio in London. Keen to chat with you about your possible participation in our radio discussion today looking at the Shahrukh Khan incident. Do pop me an email with your number if you'd like to chat about it more. Best Krupa

From Krupa Thakrar

August 17, 2009 6:42 PM
Hi Sushmita Krupa here. I 'm a journalist with the BBC World Service Radio in London. Keen to chat with you about your possible participation in our radio discussion today looking at the Shahrukh Khan incident. Do pop me an email with your number if you'd like to chat about it more. Best Krupa

From Kiran

August 17, 2009 7:28 PM
What I don't understand about indians, is how they can be so full of double standards. The only positive thing coming from this whole srk affair is that its uniting people in country (India) where to this day people of different religions and caste can't get along with with another. Especially hindus and muslims. That has been the beauty of bollywood, that at least when it comes to bollywood there is no segregation. Why does it have to take someone like SRK to come along to unite people, can't people think for themselves? I don't think indians here have any right pointing fingers at Americans when they themselves look upon muslims in their own country with suspicion. At least US is not a country where riots can be started in the name of religion. Even at this very moment, some politicians are trying to take advantage of this affair like they do with every opportunity by saying American tourists should also be inconveninced at Indian airports. By all means go right ahead. If doing so helps make India more secure and benefits homeland security, I myself would encourage them to do so. However, if this is just an ego trip and they want to just do it to get back at Americans and teach them a lesson for stopping "mr srk, big bollywood star" for revenge, then that doesn't make any sense. They will be doing it for the wrong reasons and not only wasting their own time but everyone else's as well. If you're going to check everyone at the airport for God's sake at least do it for the right reasons, which is what Americans do...... @Shalini, you said if Bill Clinton can't be frisked then Indians in US shouldn't either. Didn't you read what I wrote, Bill Clinton is the same president while he was still in power was impeached during that Monica Lewinsky thing. If he was to come to India and get frisked I doubt he will create an uproar over it but rather I'm sure he will respect the rules. If YOU indians feel for some reason that he shouldn't be frisked or Indians have got separate rules for high profile people, don't blame us for it, that is matter or issue that has to be taken up in your own country. Some people here are saying the authorities at Newark should have checked the internet to see who srk was, even if they had, they still have to follow rules. Get it through your heads people, people of all different religions and race get checked in US, ITS NOT JUST SRK! For God's sake. Lets just say even if srk was stopped just because of his name, its unfortunate because of a few poltiical men in power who use any religion for their own selfish motives and thrive on the ignorance of their community and the rest of the innocent people of that religion have to suffer. As if Muslims in India aren't scrutinized. When SRK was about to marry Gauri, there were social activitsts or some group who objected to his marriage simpley because him and his wife were of different religion and they you all say Americans are intolerant. Who are the real intolerant ones here??

From Nidhi Singh

August 17, 2009 7:49 PM
Well,There is no doubt that people in this part pf world are biased...they do not want to know the people of other world....what happened in Abbu Garib and Guatamanno is the testimony to their behaviour and thought...I just want to let them know that these peolpe too travel and if they go thru these kind of ordeal they will create whole lot of fuss....DO TO OTHERS AS U WISH THEM TO DO TO U...

From Nidhi Singh

August 17, 2009 8:00 PM
It is because of ignorant bunch of morons like (Immigration officers of Newark airport) that makes resentment grow for foreigners abroad. Be ware if the same treatment is meted out to u all...trust me i'm really in for it..... HA HA Ha God bless America AND americans....ha ha ha ...

From pawandeep

August 17, 2009 9:59 PM
@Kiran, I strongly object the tone of your comments. How can you write again and again, words like "You Indians". Tell me first , whether you consider yourself Indian or not....and for god's sake, stop writing these essays , just to show that you are full of knowledge.

From sushmita

August 17, 2009 10:00 PM
Krupa, can you send me a mail at sushmita@khaleejtimes.com? I need to have your ID. Tx.

From sunny

August 17, 2009 10:09 PM
@Kiran: I agree with u completely. pawandeep, she is making a valid point so wy are u taking it personally? it is our strange attitude (we take everything personally) that has given rise to a bunch of politicians using this to have debates in political forums. why dont people understand its NOT abt being indian or pakistani or american, its abt security. indians tend to blow everything out of proportion and they spend so much time talking and arguing that no work gets done in the process. the point abt SRK is suddenly making hindus and muslims is pertinent. its sad that a movie star had to make this happen, and the common masses cannot. typical double standards.

From pawandeep

August 17, 2009 10:16 PM
Sunny...She could also have used the words.."We Indians', instead of "You Indians". If she is using "You Indians", then that means she does not consider herself as Indian. And she has been using these terms regularly in a abusing manner, as if to be an Indian is a shameful thing.

From Mike

August 17, 2009 11:07 PM
This isn't irony; It's convenience. If you can't see the publicity stunt in this story, it might be because you're blinded by your personal agendas. He's been here plenty of other times without incident. Further, based on the customs officials report of 66 minutes and all the other factors involved, it reads as nothing more than a spoiled child throwing a fit. And his regress statement the day after he cooled off only strengthens that point of view.

From Kiran

August 17, 2009 11:26 PM
@Pawandeep...let me clarify, its not that I'm not Indian also. I am very much so and proud to be one. What I meant as in "YOU" idians, is I'm referring to the Indians of India as opposed to second generation Indians from US, who don't have a habit of as Sunny said taking everything personally. I never said I knew everything or I was full of knowledge. If you thought that about me that is a complex on your part not mine. I've said this in other blogs before and even before this whole thing with SRK even happened go and read some of my previous blogs especially the savita bhabi blog, when I said when Indians think its all racism its all in your minds and you guys just take it personally. I'm surprised that quite a few white americans here commented on this, which just proves what I've said earlier before. Its not that white Americans are racist and they never started this whole thing of discriminating on the basis of religion or race but rather its "YOU" indians in India who are still doing it to this day. Now if certain people of a particular religion or country have been carrying out terrorist attacks in the name of religion what are we the US to do? Except be more alert, which is the only solution to all this. Its not as if the authorities at Newark airport were sitting holding their breath for Mr.SRK just waiting to suck his blood for 2 hours or whatever. Read again many people here who are white and not muslim have been checked including myself. Americans didn't start this religion war and nor are they trying to even today. We are just doing everything we possibly can as humans to protect our security and that is our right.The rest is up to God. As a matter of fact it should be the right and sole duty of any country including India. If india is not doing everything and they continue to get attacked that is the weakness of their homeland security. Don't blame other countries who do take drastic measures okay. I think indians just can't digest the fact that even rich high profile get the same treatment as everyone else, why do you guys except everyone to be like you guys. If I sound like I know what I'm talknig to you its only because I'm from Canada and US and yes I would have also done the same thing to SRK if I was one of those authorities knowing very well who he is. Doing my job is not only my duty but my right. Indians can't do anything themselves so they'll stop others from performing their jobs. No country in the world is 100% corruption free but at least US is nowhere as close to India in terms of a lousy corrupt system because thats how all these attacks continue to take place. It was your own politicians who let the Kargil situation escalate and what happened so many innocent soldiers and officers lost their lives. First take care of your own country then preach to others okay. My dad is from India and he says the same thing. Its not that I'm not Indian, I am but I'm just telling some facts but Indians never like to hear the truth.

From Kiran

August 17, 2009 11:48 PM
@pawandeep..this isn't your father's blog. I can write as much as I want. I write what I only know, but since you don't know much I guess you don't write much. Its just typical indian mentality, whenever indians don't "get it their way" they have to blame it on discrimination. They don't get a promotion its discrimination! they get stopped in the airport its discrimination! Basically for everything their answer is discrimanation and then their are thousands like me who have been raised here, I have all my relatives here. How come we don't get discrimanted against? I actually know someone who went to the Motor vehicle office and she is a so called "doctor" from India but by american standards she is just a bachelor's graduate. She failed her written exam on driving which any idiot can pass and she goes and tells the officer after she failed "hey you know I'm a doctor"! Her whole point was that she should be allowed to pass with less than minimum marks just because she is a doctor. So many indians here have this attitude where they are use to getting special treatment back home just because of their profession and status. But that doesn't work here. Personally I think this is one good thing of the west that Indians should learn. Why should anyone get special treatment, period.

From gollum

August 18, 2009 2:03 AM
Kiran: Anagram of - "Your Father's Blog" = Forbear Ugly Shot.

From SHAKESPEARE

August 18, 2009 2:09 AM
Another Anagram of "Your father's blog" is "you froth garbles"

From Dr.Spook

August 18, 2009 8:49 AM
Pawandeep: cool down man and do what i do - dont read any of the essays that kiran writes. i automatically skip reading her diatribe while still reading others who have the intellectual ability to gather their thoughts and communicate in a coherent concise and intelligent manner.

From pawandeep

August 18, 2009 9:21 AM
@Kiran I expected this type of response from you. Because this is the way you have been brought up. You are using this blog to express all you disappointments with life, and I am sure, like many of us on this blog, your close relatives are also fed up with you, and donot give much attention to you. @Dr.Spook, I will absolutely pay attention to your advice, and will do , what most of us doing i.e., ignore her completely.

From jyothi

August 18, 2009 10:28 AM
Hi SRK is an icon and passing security is differnt from nbeen grilled . I do not agree with Salman and Harbajan. Are both so imprtant to make statement. Slaman is just jealous of SRK and harbhajan is just fly and he did start the abusing symonds. if not for sachin he owuld brought disgrace to country. SRK should be treated with dignity.

From Bharat

August 18, 2009 11:18 AM
I have read some of Kirans gibberish writings and I am really suspecting whether she is raised in US/Canada. Her English is very much desi - for example - people in US never say sentences such as "this isn't your father's blog". That is a very desi way of speaking. My suspicion is that she is a very disappointed and frustrated individual who has no friends and no real life so she comes here and spends her time writing long essays and fighting with every single individual who writes their opinion here.

From shalini

August 18, 2009 12:32 PM
Kiran, either you don't quite comprehend the point others are trying to make or are just bent on seeing it your way! The point is not whether Bill Clinton will make a noise when frisked (and believe me, there would be a diplomatic uproar if tht were to happen. also your point about his impeachment and blah is silly since that was within his country-has nor elation to inter-country policies). anyway, the point is that there should be clear internationally acceptabl;e rules. that anybody, who is not in office (meaning PM, pres and maybe cabinet ministers and defence chiefs) should go through the same protocol as others. simple. shah rukh khan or julia roberts. bill clinton or kalam. tony blair or I K Gujral.

From shalini

August 18, 2009 12:37 PM
And anyway, more than the government or SRK himself, its perhaps the media which is creationg a furore and blowing the entire thing out of proportion. He was detained -if it is purely protocol then it is absolutely acceptable. if it is becuae of his religion, then its condemnable. neither has anything to do with his celebrity status at home. no "celebrity" - indian or otherwise, should eb allowed to skip security protocol. its very simple.

From Bheela

August 18, 2009 3:04 PM
@pawandeep, Dr Spook - Agree with you - it is very hard to read Kiran's comments - first they are very long and full of herself. @Kiran - can you write short multiple comments - I mean one at a time, so that we can appreciate your point of view.

From ani

August 18, 2009 3:49 PM
sb, am wiser now but cannot just tolerate their (US's)sup.complex. it is very disgusting, when somebody writes something like it is not yr ....blog etc. an educated person does not use such language.

From sarab

August 18, 2009 3:53 PM
BREAKING NEWS: Sonia Gandhi has offered to make SRK, the PM of India so that the next time he goes to US, he doesn't has to face the security checks. Manmohan Singh is quiet happy to trade places with SRK. MMS will be the new king of bollywood.

From Kiran

August 18, 2009 7:01 PM
I fee very sorry for all of you above who just said all those things. Its just typcial indian mentality that you all can't bear to hear the truth. As for that nice line "its your father's blog" I put that there delibrately, because I know that is that kind of language you indians love to use. So glad you picked up on it. You guys are a little smarter than I thought. To ani or whatever, you only picked out my comment but won't say anything to that freak pawandeep who's trying to go around telling others how much they can or can't write. Its truly disgusting, that instead of accepting the truth Indians have to try and diss eachother. @Bharat...if only I had a dollar for everytime I heard that line "I doubt if she's been raised in Canada/US". Would you mind telling me what I would get out of that? Go ahead ask me a bunch of questions on US and Canada and grill me and prove yourself if you think you're right. You also want to know which high school and all the schools I have attended and which college. If you have the guts go ahead and find out. As for my relatives don't worry they agree that I'm right also. Its good that this happened to SRK, and indians are just crying buckets of water now since their beloved SRK go a dose of reality. By the way its you indians from India who are so frusterated not me since you all can't get away with everything here. Au revoir stupides! oh and c'est la vie. By the way that's French, you see French is the second official language of Canada, and we learn that here from childhood so in case any of you don't know what that means go and look it up.

From Kiran

August 18, 2009 7:22 PM
@Shalini...the only reason why I brought up that example of Bill Clinton and his impeachment was because there are many indians who don't understand that in US no one can escape the beauracratic rules that apply to everyone. My point was that since he couldn't escape such a thing in his own country why would Indians think someone like SRK who comes from abroad be allowed to get past a routine security check. I don't want to get much more into it. Indians have just taken this whole thing an Newark and blown it out of proportion. I'm sure it had nothing to do with his religion becasue there are many people of all religions who have to go through such checks at the aiport everyday. Just two months after 9/11 happened my husband and I went to Canada to see my family and at that time everyone was really paranoid. Everyone had to have their bags electronically checked through this other scanner they had set up and there was a white american guy in front of us with a big box or something and they just kept on checking his stuff over and over again. I really doubt he was a terroist or anything, but my point is it applies to everyone.

From pawandeep

August 18, 2009 9:24 PM
Afer reading all this , I just want to quote .."Donkey with a load of holy books is still a donkey"

From Kiran

August 18, 2009 10:58 PM
@pawandeep..now now. Don't be too hard on yourself, I know you're not that smart but I never called you a donkey either. Indians are sooo predicatable. That nice line I put in there only proved it. That's why your friend gollum over there went nuts on the anagram and started coming up riduculous sentences that no one cares about. It just shows how easy it is to make Indians dance to any tune one wants. If my words sound to harsh to all of you here's a saying we have here, doubt if Indians have heard it. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me". So if you don't like me, fine just ignore it. But no one cares about all the buckets of river some of you crying. End of discussion.

From Kiran

August 18, 2009 11:27 PM
@Sushmita...speaking of predicatability. You won't believe but even before you posted this Sunday's article I had a gut feeling that you were going to touch on Shah Rukh Khan's experience at Newark. I just didn't expect you to talk about it so soon. Sushmita can I suggest that you write about things that aren't so Western as opposed to Eastern, because all this nonsense of talking back and forth to eachother is getting out of hand, and clearly some people in here are not mature enough or equipped with intelligence to deal with such matters. Look at some of these guys. They think just because I used a line like "your father's blog" I'm lying about being born in the US. If only they knew that outside of India the UK and Canada, especially one of the cities I come from Indians are in HUGE numbers. All our life we so influenced by bollywood movies from day one, and our parents talk in Indian langauges to us, so obviously we are going to be familiar with common indian phrases,such as the one I used above, but can't explain it to some of the people in here who's scope of objectivity is not as wide as some of us others here. They don't understand its Indians who migrate by huge numbers to the west and not the other way around which is why I'm more familiar with where they are coming from than vice versa. Thanks, so just a suggestion, if you can next time write about something everyone can touch on a more familiar base, otherwise its like Martians and Earthlings in here. To all of you in here if you all that that I was being rude or whatever, sorry. That's just a little show of decency on my part I doubt I can expect it from some others here. But go ahead and prove me wrong.

From Arjun

August 19, 2009 12:12 AM
That waz some fight there..why don't u all just chill. There isn't any big deal about srk getting stopped at Newark. If it makes all his fans and fellow indians happy, then go ahead and strip search american tourists if it satisfies or puts out some of that fire. Its your country no one can stop you all from doin it. Just don't be hating on the rules of others......@Kiran...I agree wid all u said, some people here are just mad maybe cuz you struck a senstive nerve that's all. Just ignore them, as if they can stop you from giving your opinions.@pawandeep.....my friend get a grip man, if you don't like what kiran says, why you reacting? I've read her comments before she's just straight to the point that's all maybe u would all like it if she sugar coated it more. Relax everyone.

From henry

August 19, 2009 1:09 AM
That's terrible, when will we put a stop to this nonsense. Yes, I understand that we need to protect our country, but if he says he's a STAR, then let him go by w/o any hassles. What will he think of we as Americans?

From Jivi

August 19, 2009 2:25 AM
I have just heard SRK say, "The discussion has been blown out of proportion".

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 2:40 AM
@jivi...did you have to hear it from srk to know that? Even he knows if he doesn't calm down, neither will anyone else, since there are some people who would burn down everthing just upon his saying.

From Bharat

August 19, 2009 8:35 AM
@Kiran: If you think all of us here as so very stupid and you are so very intelligent then why are you here in the first place? Do you get a pleasure in clubbing with stupid people? Don't tell me that you are here to educate us because obviously we are much too stupid to even begin to understand a word of your lucid and intelligent speeches. So don't waste any more time in this dumb blog and instead please take your vast superior intellect and apply it in other more intelligent blogs where MENSA members meet to discuss nuclear physics or something so that they can benefit from your valuable input.

From pawandeep

August 19, 2009 8:40 AM
If Indians are Predictable, then so are the Some of the American Born Monesters, who are using this blog just to satisfy their egos. Discussion was on the topic of SRK, and I was the first one to say that it has been blown out of proportion. But if someone try to hijack the issue, just to say things like "You Indians" .

From pawandeep

August 19, 2009 8:43 AM
then I am sorry it is not acceptable

From Vijay

August 19, 2009 9:42 AM
Why is it wrong for SRK to speak out? Isn't he a human being first and then a star? SRK's comments on 26/11 and other infrigements on India's security show clearly that he is primarily concerned about the nation's security. Despite his sensitivity to security, if SRK had to speak up about this, it is because of the undoubted high handedness of the security staff at Newark. Do you and I like it when a security staffer at the airport makes us open our bags and squeeze out of toothpastes? If you and I can bristle at their unquestioned authority, why not SRK?

From Sorabh

August 19, 2009 9:52 AM
I like the fact that the US scans people thoroughly at the entry points to their country, unlike India, where the borders are open and we have to put up X ray machines and guards outside every building and even our homes.

From SHAKESPEARE

August 19, 2009 10:43 AM
Anagram of "YOU INDIANS" - "NOISY U AND I"

From argumentativeIndian

August 19, 2009 12:30 PM
The same SRK who claims to be "just a normal guy" but happens to have "friends in right places who could call up the Indian Consulate" should thank his stars (pun totally unintended, although he is entitled to the opinion of being the brightest of them all). There are two issues we're dealing with here: 1. Whether it is correct on part of US government to detain & question people on basis of their 'suspicion'? 2. Should "stars" expect special treatment or everyone should be equal in the eyes of the law? #1: While US is within its rights to question anyone and everyone who seeks to enter their borders, it has to be given that their profiling does get racial sometimes. #2 is something that we're "used to" in India, even though our constitution strictly lays out the principles of equality. Expecting a similar preferential treatment outside India is pushing luck a bit too far.

From argumentativeIndian

August 19, 2009 12:34 PM
Also, instead of GOI ministers hyperventilating and conjuring "tit-for-tat" schemes, why not use this as an opportunity to set our processes and procedures right? Everyone should be made to follow the same queue and checking procedures (FIFO principle, anyone?) unless they belong to a specific exempt class (heads of government at national/state level can be included).

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 6:55 PM
@bharat...looks like you don't read properly. I never said I was more intelligent, nor do I think that way. All I said was that there are some things I know more about since I do live on this side of the world, whereas Indians who aren't familiar with procedures here. If they did they wouldn't have done a serious thing like burn the American flag over such a small thing. I think srk being questioned is not big deal.Srk isn't a diplomat or a representative of India on a official visit to US that he should have diplomatic immunity. So what if he is an icon. Now if some politicians in India want to do the same thing to celebs from US, don't blame anyone but yourselves if Americans then take the Indian flag and burn it. But you guys don't see that is where the difference between Indians and Americans comes in and this is why I get to you guys so much. Indians don't stop and think before making the wrong move.@argumentativeindian...I absolutely agree with you. I myself was wondering how did srk manage to call up the consulate so fast and get his work done. Indians just can't digest the fact in North America we have policy "everyone is equal before the law". SRK has been to US so many times before, but this was the first time he was questioned more than usual and was crying buckets of water, and says he will cut back on his trips. Its been the smell of $$$$ that keeps bringing him back in the first place. In US when high profile people break the law they are punished, not like salman khan who ran over sleeping people on the pavement, killing one and not doing any jail time. Instead they will just keep extending their dates.

From boo

August 19, 2009 6:57 PM
Kiran: blah, blah, blah... For heaven's sake, just shut up!! By god, you are so annoying!!

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 7:16 PM
yeah yeah boo hoo to you too. I could say the say the same thing to some of you if you feel I'm too intelligent then why don't you all go join a forum where there are more "stupid" people around. If you know you aren't up to it then? I think your jivi over there is super irritating. Loves to use a fancy tone to demonstate his/her english skills and comes out sounding like a nerd bomber. Then there is pawandeep who can't understand anything unless I talk in "indian" whatever the hell that means. "Joo see he bery bery desi. can't understend amrikkan englis". Seriously, its people like you who really "take the cake". I bet you're all just frusterated that you can't be here. Yeah yeah now I know all the love for your motherland will now pour out. So just shut up and save it.

From kumar

August 19, 2009 7:21 PM
After reading through the various comments, not only on this post, but also in previous posts, I have to agree with some others here that 'Kiran' comes across as a desi who migrated to the US and is pretending to be an ABCD. My dear, living in a cold country for a few years seems to have frozen your brain. Also, how come you end up fighting with virtually everyone on all the posts? Are you really married as you say you are? I really doubt that. How do I know, you ask? Well, the way you express yourself gives it away. After reading through your comments and seeing your interactions with others in this blog, my conclusion is that you are just an ordinary unmarried desi girl who is pretending to be some happily married ABCD.

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 7:34 PM
@kumar..if thats what you think, then what can I do? But ask yourself seriously one thing. Why would I pick this particular blog of all places to try and pretend to be someone or something I'm not? I'm never going to see any of you or know any of you. Don't you think this is a total waste of my time, to expend so much energy and not get anything out of it. Like I said earlier if only I had a dollar for everytime I heard that line, "oh she can't be from North America". Really what would I get going against indians if I was as you says ABCD. I'll be honest I don't even know much about India, only from what my husband has told me and I've seen of Indians from India. But can't stop people from thinking shit now can I. I think you're the one who is unmarried and waiting for an NRI to come and give you a green card so you're spewing your frusterations.

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 7:50 PM
Just a question to some of you guys from India. This morning when I parked my car at the train terminal to catch it downtown to work, there were these two Indian guys, talking in Hindi sitting next to my seat. I could make out they didn't know I was indian since I don't look it because of fair skin, hair color and all that. What does klpt mean? The kept on saying "mera klpt hogaya" or something like that. So any of you guys what does thae mean? I asked one Indian co-worker and she just giggled, asking me "seriously they were saying that". so anyone??

From kumar

August 19, 2009 7:53 PM
Kiran: You've done it again! The phrase you used, 'But ask yourself seriously one thing' is just not ABCD phraseology! ;) I love your frazzled spirit woman (assuming you are a woman). If you are the ABCD that you declare yourself to be, will you marry me? Kiran & Kumar -> now that sounds dreamy!!

From boo

August 19, 2009 7:56 PM
klpt means Korean Language Proficiency Test.

From Kiran

August 19, 2009 8:12 PM
@boo...maybe you do have shit for brains but I don't if you think I'm going to fall for that one. Two indian guys talking about korean, oh please give me a break. You guys just proved that indians can never rely on one another.@Kumar..my dog wouldn't even piss on your face, and I've got to be crazy to leave my husband for a loser like you. Now you're trying to use this forum as a marriage portal. Like I said its only YOUR dream to marry for a green card isn't it. And stop changing your name from boo to kumar, or maybe you'd just like to call yourself fuckface. And no you aint no dream but some poor girl's worst nightmare.

From kumar

August 19, 2009 8:14 PM
Kirannnnnnnnn........... So far away... the beaches which you walk. Yet so close... always in my heart. So far away... I cannot touch your hand, I cannot feel your breath, I cannot hold you close. Yet so close... I can feel you in my heart, I can see you in my mind, I can hear you in my ears. You can go so far away... You can travel to the ends of the earth... But as long as I have your love... As long as I have you... You will always be close. For, As sure as the sun rises, And the tides will change, I will always love you, An you will always be close to my heart. .....The Passionate Lover to His Love Kumar

From kumar

August 19, 2009 8:18 PM
boo: leave my Kiran alone! Korean Language Proficiency Test indeed!

From kumar

August 19, 2009 8:26 PM
@Kiran... where are you? I miss you so much....

From kumar

August 19, 2009 8:46 PM
Kiran, why do you go to work on the train? I don't like you looking at other men okay? Why don't you drive to work? tere pyar, XX, Kumar

From SHAKESPEARE

August 19, 2009 9:50 PM
What is an ABCD?

From kumar

August 19, 2009 10:06 PM
ABCD = American Born Confused Desi

From Sigmund Freud

August 19, 2009 10:54 PM
Do you recognise how much hatred you are carrying inside you, Kiran? Why would anyone want to say that someone else has "shit for brains" or call them a "nerd bomber" (whatever that may mean!) or "fuckface" or a "poor girl's nighmare" ? Why do you generalize so much? Why do you allow your thoughts to run into one another and become so wildly entangled? Rationalise your anger, please! Is it because someone else writes better than you do? Is it because someone addresses other people more politely than you do? Is it because you are caught between cultures - neither an Indian, nor an American?

From bharat

August 20, 2009 9:04 AM
@Kiran: I think you cannot read properly. MOST of the INDIANS on this blog (including Sushmita) have said that this SRK thing was blown out of proportion and that we all agree that safety and security are more important that some stars ego. See Pawandeeps first response at the very top of this page for example. And yet, you pick a fight with everyone and call Pawandeep and others here all kinds of derogatory names and insult Indians in general. Ask yourself what kind of a human being you are and whether this is the kind of person you set out to be.

From kumar

August 20, 2009 2:14 PM
@Kiran: If not for you, I wouldn’t know What true love really meant. I’d never feel this inner peace; I couldn’t be content. If not for you, I’d never have The pleasures of romance. I’d miss the bliss, the craziness, Of love’s sweet, silly dance. I have to feel your tender touch; I have to hear your voice; No other one could take your place; You’re it; I have no choice. If not for you, I’d be adrift; I don’t know what I’d do; I’d be searching for my other half, Incomplete, if not for you. Waiting for your response my love, Kumar

From George

August 20, 2009 7:23 PM
My two cents is that every person who passes a border, any border that is, needs to be searched and questioned thoroughly irrespective of race, gender, age and nationality. For all you know, well-known celebrities, diplomats, or ordinary people who look harmless could be used by terrorists as a means of transporting the necessary 'raw materials' required to assemble a bomb or weapons required to hijack a plane. At the end of the day, each and every averted terrorist activity counts way way more than a few hurt egos.

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 6:54 AM
@bharat,pawandeep and anyone else. First of all I did say the same thing also. That it was blown out of proportion. So I don't know what it was that you guys read, maybe you all just do selective reading. No I don't think I picked a fight with anyone here, rather it was others who did, and whatever I said was in my defense. Now if some people in here are misintrepreting my words and I agree with almost everyone here they are right. However if some misread what I said that's something I can't help. I don't know why you didn't read the part about I did say sorry. Again if makes you guys feel better or you felt offended for anything I said or thought that I was against indians nothing could be further from the truth believe me on that.I love my indian culture, and we're all indians here whether its from america or india.And no I'm not any ABCD. Its just that on the internet when we converse we can sound alot different than we would in person.However, make no mistake I'm not sorry for my views which I do stand by, everyone is entitled to it, and I never made any statement nor do I think I'm smarter than anyone else. Laterz, everyone.

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 6:58 AM
@kumar..if I looked up the word pathetic in the dictionary I'm sure your face would be next to, and you deserved to be called all those names. However, do let me know I know some girls who can't find a guy, some are divorced, widowed, and one even turned into a lesbian, so you might be interested. Otherwise, fool, keep waiting I'm done with this blog.

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 7:21 AM
Just a final question to some of my indian counterparts in here. This is an honest question out of good will, just so I know for future reference. Are indians from india emotionally very sensitive? Even from past experiences personally I've found even when something is not directed towards anyone in particular I've seen indians crying and take it personally. Although I might say something objectively and not about anyone in particular, my words fire of like bullets and I've unintentionally made people cry, but being direct is just something were used to over in our country. I even had an uncle who I made cry when I was just 11 and I hardly said anything!Even my husband though he just laughs it off,is more "delicate" and finds me more direct at times although he agrees with my views. Would like an an honest input.

From Bharat

August 21, 2009 8:17 AM
@Kiran: You asked "Are indians from india emotionally very sensitive?" There are more than 1 billion Indians. Do you want someone here to generalize all 1 billion people and make up an answer to your question? I have seen some white women crying in restaurants in USA after talking on their phone. So can I assume that all white women are emotionally sensitive? Do you even realize what a silly question you have asked?

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 8:42 AM
@bharat...you know bharat, I asked an honest question and from my point of view it wasn't silly. What I meant was I've seen Indians get upset over the most trivial things. As for white women crying they cry over a break up over a boyfriend or they are financially broke or some really devasting things happens. If you want to make a mockery of that fine. You could have just answered in a plain "no". Even when I called it a truce, you still can't seem to let go of your bitterness. You don't have to answer for 1 billion people, even I know that but there are cultural differences, which I have seen time and time again all my life, so I was just wondering if someone could shed light on this cultural gap. Didn't ask you to take a survey of 1 billion people, but assuming that some people here are better in a postion to comment of the people of their country. Being Canadian for example I'm sure on a very general level I could say a few things in GENERAL. You get my point?

From Bharat

August 21, 2009 10:28 AM
@Kiran: I was never in a war to begin with so I dont know why there is any need for truce - but ok I appreciate your gesture and I will not say anything provocative now. Based on the indians I know and interact with I can say that we are not emotionally "extra sensitive" but at the same time we do prefer things to be said with tact & diplomacy and not to speak bluntly (especially with elders). Hope that helps.

From sophia

August 21, 2009 5:47 PM
I really think our "King Khan" is just doin it for publicity sakes. If Had any doubts earlier I think I don't know since Arnold Schwartnegger wanted to invite him for dinner. Some people even want President Obama to go look into the matter. I'm sure the President of our country has got better things to do, like focusing on our economy which has been the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930's. Rather than worry about why one bollywood star who has been to the US millions of times without a problem before got stopped at the airport. Just because one security officer must have had a bad day or been ignorant that doesn't make all Americans racist or bad, that SRK is threatening that he won't come back as much anymore.@Bharat..I don't think you understood what Kiran was asking. I'm also an American Indian and I can identify where she's coming from, many a times I've had the same experience with Indians. I think what Kiran was asking you was had she asked you a more "positive" question like are Indians very polite and courteous, you probably wouldn't have had any reservations about answering an affirmative "yes". I think what kiran was getting at was there are subtle differences in behavioral patterns that are more common to one country more so than another, that's all.It's kinda safe to ask is it common Indians to fight at a restaurant over who gets to pay the bill? Kiran did I guess that's what ur tryin to say??

From kumar

August 21, 2009 6:48 PM
Kirannnnnn....... Honey, you're back! I'm so glad to see you back! Let me make one thing clear. I don't want anyone else but you, okay? Sweetheart, where are you now? When will you come to India so we can get married? I really need that greencard you know? How is the job situation there now? If we get married, then can I come immediately and start to work there? You know, I prefer that my wife is a housewife. love, Kumar

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 6:51 PM
@sophia..well yeah you kinda got the gut of what I was saying. But let me say what I was asking was not a negative or positive thing, there's nothing wrong in being more sensitive than others, but if there is a difference it does need to be noted. Being a Business graduate, we do have to be aware that there are real differences that need to be addressed when interacting with people of different cultures. That's what we call cultural diversity. When I was in college, one of our professors noted that when we see one of our friends or are in a hurry we might just say "hey how's it going", not that we are going to stop and chat for 10 mintues and actually ask them how its going, being pressed for time that we always are. Rather that statement is just more of an extended greeting or another way to say "hello" and pass eachother without stopping and walk in opposite directions, whereas someone from an Asian country would really have taken it literally and started telling you about their problems. Now if an Indian had said is that how all North Americans behave, being a very common normal behavior for us, I could have said "yes". That's what I was asking bharat. I was just asking him that question based on years of what I've seen and as he said interacted with people. I hate to say it not me though, but some people I know even had to physcially kick some Indians' asses because they blew somethings out of proportion. Now that is really harsh, I'd say. @Bharat...exactly what I was asking, Indians don't like to be talked to bluntly.

From kumar

August 21, 2009 6:58 PM
Darling Kiran, I've got some bad news from my village. It's seems that a tiger ate one of our goats and my ma feels that the situation is dire because there are only 3 goats left in the compound. Therefore, I have to go back to the village and help the others hunt for the tiger. Don't worry, I'll be back after catching the tiger and then will talk to you okay? Also one thing that I forgot to tell you is that you shouldn't mingle with women who are divorced, widowed, and turning into lesbians, okay? If you do, then you will get sick too. okay love, my brother the chaiwalla is telling me to hurry up otherwise the tiger might catch the other 3 goats. love, Kumar

From Maya

August 21, 2009 8:04 PM
@Sophia and Kiran: I would like to ask you a question if I may. As American Indians, do you find it hard to mingle with Indians? Kiran, I know you're married to an Indian guy. Was it hard for you to adapt living with him? I'm an Indian(born and brought up in India), but I have lived in the US and other countries. When I first came to the US, I would often meet up with my cousins who were American Indians and I found their attitute to be cold / stand-offish, as if I was this 'dunce' cousin of theirs. After several years, we got along ok, but it was forced. I'm imagining that if I felt uncomfortable around them, then they probably felt the same around me.

From Kiran

August 21, 2009 9:29 PM
@Maya...I'm really glad you brought up this point. I knew someone would and I'll try to answer it as honestly and objectively as I can. Personally as far as my marriage goes, the answer is a really surprising no. It wasn't difficult at all on my part to adjust to my husband, I guess it was just meant to be. However, when I first met him I wasn't willing to give him chance simply because we were from two different countries. Once I warmed up to him and realized just how compatible his views were with mine, I was okay. However, I have found that it is a very rare thing, it doesn't always work out great between a Canadian/American girl and a Indian guy from India. As for your cousins thinking you're a "dunce", well with us North Americans it does take time to get to know us, sometimes even years, and only then do we warm up. Whereas I think Indians just love to get really close personally right off the bat. I often ask my husband this, why do Indians alot of time like to beat around the bush with their words, as bharat said don't talk "bluntly", I might interpret that as being "extra sensitive", and Indians might think we're rude and cold for our directness. I guess the key here is just to get to know one another, and if you hit if off and click fine, otherwise we go our separate ways. But just remember, don't get too personal quickly into people's personal live in this country, whereas Indians love to know all the gritty details of who's who. By the way Maya I'm sure you're no dunce and very nice. I can't say for your cousins personally but it could just have been a communication gap or different way of talking that's all. Hope that answered or cleared a bit for you.

From ram pyari

August 22, 2009 10:28 PM
oye what a fight. pls cool it everyone. and, now my 2 cents. 1. the comparison with bill clinton won't work. simple reason: clinton travels, not just to india, but around the world in his personal jet; ditto for hollywood rock stars like brad pitt, angelina jolie and their 12,000 kids. so unlike our own abdul kalaam/srk/shilpa shetty/preity zinta and so on who travel first/business on international airlines. haves and have nots you know. 2. regardless of whether srk was indeed a victim as he claims, let us accept a basic truth. there is racial profiling in the US and actually everywhere else in the world. this is part of our conditioning. recall your amar chitra kathas (for example) or an equivalent tome elsewhere in the world. the baddies are always guys with gigantic moustaches, black. grow up with this stereo-type impression, you are bound to engage in racial profiling. this is not an us against them argument. a pakistani friend once told me that the joke in pakistan is that PIA is the safest airline in the world. 3. this is for kiran and kiran baiters; maybe it will help understand a complex country/culture like ours. we are generally a high context culture, unlike say the western set up you seem to have grown up in. a more cogent argument can be found in the works of sudhir kakar.

From sushmita

August 22, 2009 10:48 PM
sorry people, i was unable to see what was happening on this blog for the past couple of days. i don't know why the knives are out for Kiran. she may be writing 'essays' -- as some people have put it -- but this is an open forum, and if one doesn't want to read so much of writing, well then you can skip it (like Dr Spook does!). also, there are too many personal attacks happening. picking on someone's english-writing abilities is not in very good taste, as is descending to name-calling. someone here even said that Kiran sounds like an 'unmarried' desi woman: what on earth is that supposed to mean? that's worse stereotyping than anything that happens at american security booths. let's just move on with more civilised and sane discussions, shall we? we are bound to disagree on various points, but that doesn't mean we should get personal. ram pyari: very good point. i guess if you travel on a 'common' flight, u are bound to be treated like everyone else. and true, racial profiling exists everywhere in the world. one of the most common examples is: if you are a gora woman in India, you are bound to be perceived -- by at least half the population in a given area -- that you are loose. one of my friends -- she's not even a westerner, she;s an Algerian Muslim -- was in India last month, and she was telling me hilarious stories about how men were 'trying to get into her pants' just because she was wearing spaghetti tops. some men even told her on her face that she's 'white' so what;s her problem with a little roll in the hay, all white women are 'loose' and 'fast'. when i asked her if her experience has put her off visiting India again, she burst out laughing. "No way," she said. "I loved the country and there;s a lot to see -- so I'll be back, and I'll find my way around despite all sorts of people thinking I am a tramp." atta girl!

From Soham

August 22, 2009 11:14 PM
You are a fan of SRK??? *shakes his head in disbelief*

From MORE DISBELIEF

August 23, 2009 1:52 AM
I can't believe that you want to play a judge and jury in this "dispute" without taking the ofence to Kiran's crudity (eg. "my dog wouldn't even piss on your face" etc). Well, I am going to stick to my other blogs from now on.

From Kiran

August 23, 2009 6:47 AM
I agree very much so with what sushmita said. There is racial profiling everywhere in the world, because individuals are ignorant. However, we should not let bad experiences with a hand full of people from other countries we visit put us off from every going there again. Srk said if has to come to US 3 times, he will try to compress all his work and try to get it done in just 1 trip. What's there to say that they won't check him again in that 1 trip. I know its not right to stop and check someone just because of their race or religion, but at the same time I think what SRK, or the media did, was not right either. No one likes to have their country shown in a bad light. For example if Brad Pitt was to go to India, and get the same treatment or worse and made India and Indians look bad by saying something negative, I doubt Indians would like that, right? Any country should strive to make their security as good as possible, however we have to know this, that certain individuals involved in this job, some will not always make the best judgement unfortunately. I know its not right, but maybe the security officer who detained SRK was just ignorant and having a bad day, or maybe SRK must have said something stupid or given them a difficult time, who knows. The system isn't always perfect, but at times like this we do need to keep the fire under control instead of adding fuel to it. I know this is easier said than done.

From sri

August 23, 2009 9:31 AM
Why is it that out of 130 responses to this blog, only a handful seem to stick to the point? @ Sushmita: Dont you think you need to moderate Kiran a bit too?... I am all for 'ignoring what you dont like' but; isn't it all getting a little too overbearing? Kills the fun of this blog and we miss out on a lot of peoples' valid responses because they choose to stay away from all this venom spewing.

From sri

August 23, 2009 9:38 AM
Also if Akbar Khan 'The Cook', were to be grilled, he would object for sure, as he is more used to being the 'Griller' than the 'Grillee'..... :) ... :p

From Anand

August 23, 2009 9:48 AM
@Sushmita: I think you have lost your objectivity here. Have you even read all the venom and bad language that Kiran has been using here? And yet you dont say a single word about that. Is that the way you want to run this blog now (playing favorites)?

From pawandeep

August 23, 2009 10:25 AM
@Sri I agree with you, but unfortunately it seems @Sushmita likes it. Responses should be related to the given topic. Sure it is a open forum, but if this is used to express anti-india feelings ( no matter what the subject is) then I regret to say it is unacceptable, and unbearable. Good luck to all of you.

From sushmita

August 23, 2009 11:30 AM
Anand: I did object to the bad language and the venom, and a lot of it is being triggered off because the comments are going haywire. This was a blog on SRK and his grilling at Newark, and for some reason it seems to have now become an anti-India forum. I think all of us agreed that -- or most of us agreed -- that it was no big deal that King Khan had to get off his high horse. So why are we now getting personal about "us Indians" and "we Indians"? Kiran's calling someone 'F***face' or a freak is totally unjustified; as is someone called Kumar ranting on endlessly abt how he wants to marry her. what is the point?

From Kiran

August 23, 2009 6:48 PM
Okay everyone. First of all, believe it or not its not like me to use such language. I mean I expect all of us to be more mature. As for my language well that was just deliberate because some guys in here were accusing me of things that weren't true, and that kumar started something else. I'm good with good people and repsect others opinions and views, but I can also get down right nasty with nasty people as well. If you want to try and shoot down my views or misunderstand something I said, you bet I'm going to get mouthy. These guys in here were saying stuff like I'm an ABCD, or I'm from India who migrated to US and sound to "desi". If I sound to desi, you guys aren't happy, or if I sound to American you guys don't like it. Sheesh, what do you guys want? Get yourselves sorted out for God's sake. The kind of comments I got in here, especially kumar, I know its not justified but I'm not Mahatma Ghandi, that someone will take a swing and I'll turn the other cheek. Got it?

From Kiran

August 23, 2009 6:51 PM
Excuse me I mispelled Gandhi (typed to fast).

From Ankush Buldeo

August 24, 2009 4:46 PM
Great Blog. First write on controversial topic. Let people comment on it, give spark in between replies, let people fight. Enjoy.. ! Hit Masala.

From Soham

August 24, 2009 9:08 PM
Ankush is the second person who actually got what the entire ploy is all about :) Sushmita is a past master in this art! :) P.S: Who was the first person? P.P.S: Its not me

From Simer

August 26, 2009 2:13 AM
That, I now get fewer chances to watch this space & come like once a month or so. When I saw this post along with others, "man I gotta read this" was the reaction. Whoa - first time I see International contributions to this blog - in whatever language or sentiment expressed. Good show... Sushmita. So, SRK was grilled at Liberty Airport. What we all talking about folks? Do you guys think DHS does not know who the hell he is when he has been to the US so many times. Folks USCIS systems are pretty neat & it would be seriously a big deal to beat 'em. SRK or God knows the reasons why he got pulled. Did we hear 'coz my name is Khan' & that's a common name. Well, then 'Singh' is a common name too & apparently Singh (me) was traveling the same day too, through JFK tho. Singh got pulled as well and officer Martinez asked - 'What U got'? Since Singh declared food, Singh said to officer he got infant food, almonds & raisins. Officer said "thats good for today" & showed me the exit. I wanna say just 1 thing to all - pls express views about the blog & NOT against each other. Its bad to see people being loud & using offensive language, no matter if they are white, brown, asians, blacks, ABCD's et all.. or even those who are being blunt. Expressing open views politically correct/ incorrect is ok, but not when directed to someone personally or otherwise. I'm not playing no moderator, have no right to do that... but lets stay away from that gray area. Those who are ok with me, perfect. Those who aren't, perfect still... apologize for a long note which I don't generally write. Cheers everyone.

From Simer

August 26, 2009 2:13 AM
That, I now get fewer chances to watch this space & come like once a month or so. When I saw this post along with others, "man I gotta read this" was the reaction. Whoa - first time I see International contributions to this blog - in whatever language or sentiment expressed. Good show... Sushmita. So, SRK was grilled at Liberty Airport. What we all talking about folks? Do you guys think DHS does not know who the hell he is when he has been to the US so many times. Folks USCIS systems are pretty neat & it would be seriously a big deal to beat 'em. SRK or God knows the reasons why he got pulled. Did we hear 'coz my name is Khan' & that's a common name. Well, then 'Singh' is a common name too & apparently Singh (me) was traveling the same day too, through JFK tho. Singh got pulled as well and officer Martinez asked - 'What U got'? Since Singh declared food, Singh said to officer he got infant food, almonds & raisins. Officer said "thats good for today" & showed me the exit. I wanna say just 1 thing to all - pls express views about the blog & NOT against each other. Its bad to see people being loud & using offensive language, no matter if they are white, brown, asians, blacks, ABCD's et all.. or even those who are being blunt. Expressing open views politically correct/ incorrect is ok, but not when directed to someone personally or otherwise. I'm not playing no moderator, have no right to do that... but lets stay away from that gray area. Those who are ok with me, perfect. Those who aren't, perfect still... apologize for a long note which I don't generally write. Cheers everyone.

From Neo Nazi

August 26, 2009 6:12 PM
I sink all people who complain about racism saying white people do bad things must stop living in white countries. Go home to your own shit holes.You people come to our places and make dirty. You eat Doeners and throw it on our stations. You can not English neither German.You have funny accents.

From Neo Nazi

August 26, 2009 6:12 PM
I sink all people who complain about racism saying white people do bad things must stop living in white countries. Go home to your own shit holes.You people come to our places and make dirty. You eat Doeners and throw it on our stations. You can not English neither German.You have funny accents.

From argumentativeIndian

August 28, 2009 11:36 AM
The thread seems to be quiet for now, but who's betting against some 'spark' & 'Hit Masala' (@ankush @soham). In any case, guys, chill out and read this excellent (if lengthy paper) on "Respect" (and Religion) http://www.phil.cam.ac.uk/~swb24/PAPERS/religion%20and%20respect.pdf Some excerpts: ‘Respect’, of course is a tricky term. I may respect your gardening by just letting you get on with it. Or, I may respect it by admiring it and regarding it as a superior way to garden. The word seems to span a spectrum from simply not interfering, passing by on the other side, through admiration, right up to reverence and deference. This makes it uniquely well-placed for ideological purposes. People may start out by insisting on respect in the minimal sense, and in a generally liberal world they may not find it too difficult to obtain it. But then what we might call respect creep sets in, where the request for minimal toleration turns into a demand for more substantial respect, such as fellow feeling, or esteem, and finally deference and reverence. In the limit, unless you let me take over your mind and your life, you are not showing proper respect for my religious or ideological convictions. Another: We can respect, in the minimal sense of tolerating, those who hold false beliefs. We can pass by on the other side. We need not be concerned to change them, and in a liberal society we do not seek to suppress them or silence them. But once we are convinced that a belief is false, or even just that it is irrational, we cannot respect in any thicker sense those who hold it—not on account of their holding it. We may respect them for all sorts of other qualities, but not that one. We would prefer them to change their minds. Or, if it is to our advantage that they have false beliefs, as in a game of poker, and we am poised to profit from them, we may be wickedly pleased that they are taken in. Peace!

From argumentativeIndian

August 28, 2009 11:39 AM
Apologies for the formatting mess-up! . . Note to LiveMint team: care for preserving at least the new-line characters that users enter in the comments field?

From Simer

August 29, 2009 6:16 AM
"Respect" - well published...argumentativeIndian. Nice Read. Cheers

From Ankush Buldeo

August 29, 2009 1:22 PM
I do agree with you however, why have you changed your name from Sushmita to argumentativeIndian for this particular post ?

From Soham

August 29, 2009 1:54 PM
@Argumentative India Fo the point if... ? If thif the BottomLine? Everybody if claiming he/fe if refpecting the other fella, (do you believe thif?, I dont though), but nobody gives a fit! @Ankuf Buldeo Fufmita can't read intellectual and deep fuff like lengthy paperf like thif! But to all, yef its indeed a good one! +1 to AI: Livemint comment formatting fucks!

From Aonee

August 30, 2009 11:45 AM
Everybody is missing an important thing in this whole fiasco. You have a pretty good lesson to the security personnel in india who go out of the way and loosen the restrictions on actors and politicians all the time. Shah rukh must have anticipated the same treatment in US too. That is not India buddy!! No wonder there was no terror strike in US post 9/11 and we have our neighbors striking us at will.

From kaku

September 4, 2009 6:40 AM
Sometimes back during the IPL Mr Sunil Gavaskar made some point with reference to the Kolkotta Knight Riders team and Mr Shah Rukh Khan's comment to Mr Sunil gavaskar was first own a team and then make suggestions and since I (SRK) owns KKR he would make the rules. So Mr Shah Rukh Khan the tables have now turned around, own a country then make the rules, till then you would be detained and frisked.

From Gurpreet

September 6, 2009 2:03 PM
Ive Been wondering for the past few days, about the absence of updated blog. But today after reading all the comments of this post, I have understood the reason. I dont need to comment on on anything. But seems, this issue has deprived me of my rouitne sunday blog reading. :-) Nuksaan hum sabka hai, Suhmita

From Abhishek

September 6, 2009 11:22 PM
Dear Ms. Bose...its time u ended ur hibernation...we are waiting to hear from u...i dont think some unjustified adverse comments can pin you down....post a new one asap...

From Soham

September 7, 2009 11:53 AM
Gurpreet, Sushmita is a way too good girl to not blog(that would have been a welcome change :D) just because somebody likes SRK more than Aamir :D and India starts with I. Dheeraj rakho! Sabr ka fal meetha hota hai

From Gurpreet

September 7, 2009 1:53 PM
Soham, Totally agree with you. Sushmita are youe hearing it??? Sabr bahut ho gaya, ab fal ka intezaar haiiiiiiiii......................

From kumar

September 7, 2009 3:51 PM
@Kiran: Trying to appear like a polite person when in reality all you have done is ignite tempers not only in this blog post, but also in previous ones, is not going to change my opinion of you. I have nothing but absolute contempt for you! What makes you think that all Indian men are after greencards and that they would do anything to get it. Perhaps a few of them are, but don't generalize an entire population based on those few. I called you an ABCD and I stand by my comment. There are thousands of Americans of Indian descent who are very decent people, but then there are a few like yourself who I classify as ABCDs; always thinking that you are better than Indians from India just because you are from a different country and were raised there. Let me remind you that no matter how much better you think yourself to be, the fact remains that the blood flowing through your veins runs in the veins of the very people you despise. @Sushmita: your comments are very partisan; you took offense with the comments directed at Kiran, yet you never took offense with the comments made by Kiran to myself and others previously. I am starting to believe that you were hoping to fan the hostility further with the view that any publicity as a result of this tamasha would be free publicity for your blog.

From Soham

September 7, 2009 10:21 PM
@Kumar Who cares for Kkkkkiran, SRK, Newark etcetra etcetra.... @Gurpreet If you honestly, ask me I like pulling her leg{s? ;)) the best, especially when it comes to "fluffy" stuffs on this blog :D

From ram pyari

September 10, 2009 9:25 AM
your fans cry for you sushmita.....:)) pls resume blogging.

From ani

September 10, 2009 11:59 AM
sb, are u taking a break or is it that u are hurt by some mischevious comments? do not take everything so seriously. let us go back to the good old blog days.

From AB

September 10, 2009 6:40 PM
SB, after my return I had gone thru the latest comments on your blog & can understand the reason why you are keeping away.I still insist you return afterall blogs are meant to be like this but do agree some persons just took it for granted & used all sorts of foul language .Lets make a fresh beginning ...the way I have.

From Simer

September 10, 2009 11:06 PM
Those of you all are responsible to stop this blog - APOLOGIZE NOW

From smriti

September 11, 2009 1:17 PM
Hi sush... i read all ur blogs and ur columns in KT... thou here has been a considerable amount of bad mouthing going arnd in this blog; and its but natural to put anyone down... pleasee don let it stop u 4m doing wat u r best at.. it seems u ve not been writing ur regular friday columns in KT as well... Hoping alls well....

From Kumar

September 11, 2009 3:19 PM
To all the guys moaning that that Sushmita has stopped writing because of the silliness that went on in the comments section of this blog: Surely you must realize that Sushmita is a seasoned writer and good columnist who would not be able to produce the brilliant work she has produced so far, if she had a weak personality. I am quite sure that her absence is due to something more serious in her personal life and for her sake, I hope all's well at her end. Sushmita, my prayers are with you. I hope that whatever is keeping you from writing / blogging is sorted out soon.

From Gurpreet Singh

September 12, 2009 2:01 PM
KUMAR, I agree with you, that SB may be involved in some tangle in her personal life. However, then too she deserves it to be known to her blog followers & fans like us. But she has kept mum for all this time. So, if she is down with personal life, im with her, but dissappointed for not letting us all know through this blog. HOWEVER, if she is upset due the argeuments above & after the repeated appeals by all of us, if she is ignoring us & continuing with her voluntary sabbatical, then she has lost my respect. I have been an avid reader since "Snngle in the city HT days" & followed it here. But, seems, time to bid adieu.

From Abhishek

September 13, 2009 12:17 AM
@Sush - Hope to see a new post today....end of break :)

From pawandeep

September 13, 2009 11:46 AM
Sushmita, in one of your comments, you had mentioned you would be going to kolkota. But I think this is a long break. I hope everything is ok . I cannot believe that you can stop writing because of any adverse comment on this blog. Or is that you taken leave because you are getting married....> ( there are no post on kt either ).....or have u left the job at kt.

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