How special is this birthday with little Aradhya around this time? Birthdays are the same for me. Another year has gone by. Though Aaradhya’s presence is quite different…
Any special birthday wish? I don’t have, nor have I ever, had any special wishes. I just carry on from year to year. There are so many ‘days’ specified these days — New Year’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day! I just look at it (my birthday) as another day and I hope and pray that I can keep all my commitments and carry on.
Have you always celebrated birthdays? I have, as most people do. I spend my birthdays with my family. Sometimes there are occasions like last night’s celebrations and previously on my 50th and 60th birthdays, which I accede to because of my family. Otherwise, personally, it’s always been a normal day.
What are the celebrations like at home? The family gets together, some people are invited and pleasantries are exchanged — the usual khaana-peena (eating and drinking) and all that.
What is your most cherished birthday gift? My children — Abhishek and Shweta — and my grandchildren — Navya Naveli, Agastye and Aaradhya. They are most special.
Do you cut a cake every year? I am not very fond of cake cutting. Personally, I don’t understand the logic behind cutting cakes, singing songs or blowing out candles! I guess it’s a
tradition to market it as a ‘day’.
