Amrita’s whacky gift for Rakshabandhan 

By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 19, 2005 - 00:57 IST

Yes, that is what Amrita Rao receives every year when she ties the sacred thread of affection for her brothers. “I agree, it does sound weird but then it is functional” she smiles and sits down to explain, “See, both my brothers are younger to me, so I can’t accept cash from them. They once asked me what I would like for Rakshabandhan. I shrugged and said I don’t know. Then suddenly the two got a brainwave and said, ‘Hey, she is a film buff so why not send her to the movies. From that year onwards, it’s always been movie tickets for every Rakshabandhan. You might argue that the gift gets predictable but then I love it nonetheless. Besides don’t you think its very hatke? I can bet my life that no other bhai-behen jodi will have such a quirky gift!” she smiles.

And what does Amrita on her part do? “Well, I like to keep the festival to the very simple. I even tone down the Rakhi. I simply hate those loud, flashy ones that I see at marketplaces these days. To me the simpler they are, the better. Last year, I bought rakhis that had these tiny coconut images on it. It looked rather cute. But the best part was that we celebrated Rakshabandhan on the beach! That was the high point. You might be wondering that I have turned the traditional fest into one crazy circus with my fundu ideas. But I like it this way, besides, it’s the emotions that matters, right?” Amrita asks gently.

Can’t argue with that one!

Amrita Rao in E. Niwas's next