The City has an influx of people from all over India, therefore most festivals are celebrated with equal fervour. Go to any shop in the City and the beautiful rakhis on display remind you that it is time to celebrate the special relationship between brothers and sisters.
Whether in the form of simple threads or fancy ones, this is a tradition which finds a place in every home.But today, there are many who live away from their families and can’t be with their siblings for the special day. Do people staying away from home celebrate this festival with enthusiasm? Metrolife talks to people in the City to find out.
“Yes of course. My sister and all my cousins are sending me rakhis this year as it’s the first time that I won’t be home for the festival,” says Gaurav Chandra, an IT professional. Today, with the increased use of courier services and online marts, it is not that difficult to send your affection through mail.
“My sister, who lives in the US, sends me rakhi every year without fail,” says Pankaj, a professional. Everyone agrees to the fact that however big or small the celebration is, the day continues to remain special.
“It does hold some meaning as this is the time we remind ourselves of the beautiful moments that we have spent with our sisters,” says Anmol, a professional.
And the celebrations, which used to be more elaborate earlier, now are limited to phone calls for many. “Usually the day is limited to talking to my cousin sisters on the phone and wishing them,” says Dipin, a management student. And the celebrations differ too.
“I used to celebrate the day when I was at home but now I just have a piece of sweet while tying rakhi on my own hand,” says Pankaj. “As far as the celebration is concerned, there will be nothing as I will be attending office,” says Gaurav.
But the day is not just about special moments. It’s also a day sisters cherish because of the gifts they receive.
“My sister has already taken an advance gift from me for rakhi, so I won’t be sending her anything,” says Gaurav laughing. “Normally, I don’t rely much on sending gifts. But I personally gift them whenever I visit home,” says Dipin. And while some sisters let their brothers get away easily, some definitely plan to get all they can on this day.
“Earlier, we used to get some money but now things have changed,” says Tanya, a B Com student. “I have asked my brother for a branded watch, which I know is a little too much but then, I still don’t mind,” she adds.
But there are always people who feel differently. “I don’t believe in gifts. I think relationships are above all these material things,” says Anmol.