The power of gold

Women's fascination for gold is old news. But it turns out that the precious metal also holds an attraction for men, specially those seeking tickets for the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, which goes to the polls in October. Many aspirants openly flaunted large quantities of gold ornaments on their person when they appeared before their respective parties' election panels. Several claimed this ostentatious display could be considered an added qualification since they know that large amounts of wealth are required to fight an election. But given the extreme focus on corruption in the public discourse, all parties, whether in the ruling alliance or in opposition, are taking stern action against "'golden" applicants, fearing a backlash in the run-up to the polls.