Being a Rana myself, I'm at loath to encounter bigoted behaviour among Ranas. They strongly cling to the vestiges of their autocratic past, and still harbour ambitions of returning to some sort of a system where they can retain their hold. Many of these families are very rich. They have lot to lose. That's why we need a clean break from the past.

The abolishment of the monarchy is the only way we can achieve this. The caste system in our society is bad enough, the class these families bring, makes Nepali society look completely feudal. But let's not lump all Ranas and Shahs together. Many are involved in grass root activities, supporting and working for the poor. Many Ranas are poor themselves. 'A Rana becomes Rinpoche' (#308) is an example of a non-stereotype Rana. For a Rana to break completely from the strong Hindu past, to become a Rinpoche and preach its message of peace and happiness, requires strong conviction. We must admire the man's determination and dedication to do what he thought was the correct path. He is an example for the rest of us.

S Rana,
London

. Sridhar SJB Rana chose the path destined for him. Good for him. But I was a little intrigued by your title to the piece: 'A Rana becomes Rinpoche'. As if the surname was something to be highlighted. A question to the editors: Rana is just another Nepali surname like Sharma, Chamar, Sherpa, Gurung, Yadab. So why should the fact that Sridhar is a Rana hold any significance? Feudal hangover?

Sam Sharma,
email