Party platter

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Diwali Milan (get-together) for journalists on Saturday was marked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's very visible attempt to reach out to the mainstream media after studiously ignoring it since he came to power. The BJP also laid on a lunch for which the menu was, in keeping with party tradition, not only vegetarian but also sans onion and garlic. Many a journalist told their hosts how the food was "simple yet appetising", indicating that they hadn't missed the two condiments. It is telling, however, that nobody touched the noodles and pasta, also cooked without onion and garlic.