Rakhi!

I always enjoy festivals. They have some celestial quality about them. Everyone is happy and participative. This is a festival I adore and it has meant different to me at every stage of my life. From when it was about money, to when it was about fun, to when it was about the relationship that siblings share to now when it's about moments. These relationships I cherish.

I had always wanted a brother of my own. Being the youngest, I always asked when I can have a brother. Usually this came up during Rakhi time, so mum asked me to tie Rakhi to dad and then to Ladoo. Then came cousins and even though it was never consistent, it was still there. Then came relationships that I cherish. Some amazing people who are more than family. My Rakhi brothers. 

Most of my family is in different cities or abroad. Chachu's son is in Canada, Masi's son in Gurgaon ( don't gel much), cousin Mama's sons in Canada. Others in Punjab. Two in Noida and Dwarka who have their own lives. Masi's sons in LA. And God knows where all. 

Everyone is busy in this life. Life is so material. Some of us meet and have fun. And some of us meet on weddings ot trips. Times are changing. There will be a time when we won't even meet for small functions. I miss that. And I especially miss my sisters during festivities. We are spread throughout the globe and I hate it. This is not how family should be. I miss all the fun and all the pranks we used to play. All the mithai and all the masti. Maybe someday, we will all be together to celebrate us - our family. Till then, I tie Rakhi to all my brothers on their behalf too. I sms Rakhi messages or courier some. Is this really what we are looking forward too. A techno filled dead life.