India, May 29 -- Sir,

This summer is making us, Mysureans, experience how searing the summer can be. The common poser is: "How much water should I drink?"

The physician would advise "drink plenty."

Then, the question: "How much?" The advice, even without looking at you, would invariably be, "one and a half litres", "two litres" or "two and a half litres."

No two physicians agree! It implies I have to keep an account of the amount of water I have to take, since, say, 6 am this morning and make up the specified amount by 6 am the next morning. For doing so, I should carry with me a measuring jar, a notebook and a pencil. But the advice is specifically required for you, as an individual.

Therefore, it should be based mainly on your body...