Like tigers who don't have votes, tribals too are victims of political apathy. Their neglect is one of those unsung tales, which never reaches the shores of mainland India

Unmourned and unsung

Like tigers who don't have votes, tribals too are victims of political apathy. Their neglect is one of those unsung tales, which never reaches the shores of mainland India. Thus, the extinction of the ancient Bo language in far away Andamans, some would say, was a foregone inevitability. The death of Boa Sr, the 85-year-old lone remnant of the Bo tribe, has silenced the lilt and grace of one of the most remarkable cultures humans have known.

Typically, even as Boa tribe and their language passed into history and memory, it was just a regular day of bluster, hype and doublespeak, which pass for conversation in Dilli's confused language. And no doubt, the passage will be noted officially and some noise will be made to protect our precious heritage. But most likely, except for linguists and those who work with tribals, Dilli will return to its humdrum politics. End of chapter. Turn the page.

Valuable Valentine
Dilli is excited in advance with rumours that French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni are aiming to keep their date with the Taj Mahal on Valentine's Day. Two years ago, a protocol hitch had prevented Bruni from accompanying her then boyfriend to India. But there'll be no diplomatic obstacles this time for the First Lady of France.

Sarkozy and Carla are reportedly spending a day in Pondicherry, followed by a romantic date at the monument of love. With no official appointments to keep this time, Sarkozy can finally fulfil his promise of 2008 to return to the Taj Mahal with his lady love. Circumstances in France may of course nix these plans yet. But the Capital still hopes.

Widely regarded as India's "Image Guru", Dilip Cherian is lobbyist, celebrity creator and tycoon watcher. He currently parties on a 24/7 schedule that mixes cities nixes bores, and analyses Dilli.
Follow him on Twitter @ dilipthecherian