Bonding with Daddy Dearest on D-Day

Ahead of World Father’s Day on Sunday, City Express talks to a few celebrities and finds out how they bond with their dads, besides their plans to make them feel special on the day

CHENNAI: He held you in his arms when you couldn’t talk, he stood by your side when you met your first goal, he comforted you on a stressed day and he watched you with content as you raced your way to happiness and success. City Express got in touch with celebrities from different fields and asked them about their plans for Father’s Day and how they will spend time with their dads, amid their busy schedule.

Carnatic vocalist Mohan Santhanam, whose voice has echoed in Chennai, the US and back, enthusiastically spoke about his respect for his father. “This Father’s Day, he will be spending time with my brother in Delhi. But when he is with me, I take him for concerts and play him some recordings at home. Sometimes, I sing to him his favourite ragas like Shanmuga Priya. He nurtured my talent and on several occasions, travelled with me to my concerts,” he said.

Collaborative concert pianist Alexandra Minoza, said that she bonded with her dad by playing ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ in Bossa Nova style on the piano while her dad sang. “Every year, my dad organises a one-week long vacation along with my cousins, usually in a new place, and this year’s was El Nido Islands. I admire his passion towards helping people, and that serves as an inspiration for me. He is not with me on this Father’s Day, but a card will reach his address!” she added.

Akshita Garg, the award-winning jewellery designer, said, “My parents are working and so am I. The only time we get together is for dinner, and that’s when my dad makes sure that he asks how my day went, what progress I’ve made, and gives me advice. On Sunday, we may go for a movie or have a quiet dinner.” So has she planned a gift for her dad? “For once, every year, I get to buy him a gift. I have got him a belt from Louis Vuitton,” she said.

Fashion choreographer Karun Raman plans to simply sit by his dad’s side all day at home. “My father just barely escaped death,” he said. “Just a few days ago, he had a serious liver transplant surgery. It has been a difficult period. Earlier, I used to take him shopping or go for a movie, but this Father’s Day and all the days to come, I’ll be by his side at home.”

Celebrity or not, fathers will be the men who turn their head and take pride to hear the word Appa. A celebration of his special day and some quality time with love, can strengthen the bond.