I still remember looking out of the window of my room at
Marmara hotel in Istanbul to a vast open expanse, a landmark called Taksim
Square. It looked so beautiful with
people walking and cars passing by on surrounding roads that I used to savour
the sight every evening coming back to room late evening after a busy and
tiring day. It was refreshing and
rejuvenating experience. I was in
Istanbul thrice in connection with my work and all the three times I stayed at
Marmara which is there right opposite Taksim Square and all the three time I
made sure to get my room facing the Square.
Today, it pains me to hear that the same Taksim Square which gave me
solace and got etched into my memory as place to identify with a beautiful
country and its equally beautiful people is in the middle of controversy and
existential crisis. I am confused why on the earth could anyone think about
disturbing such beautiful places which give character and indelible identity to
a city and a country to the whole world.
I don’t know and I don’t wish to interfere in any country’s internal
affairs but I do know that beauty has no national boundaries and will always be
beholden in the eyes of those who hold it dear and close to the heart.
When I am in Istanbul next time, I wish that I would be able
to see the Taksim Square the same way as I had seen it before. And it remains the
same for my and your grandchildren to see and remember for ever.
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