Together Through it all!

A deep relationship

Anna is the first half of Amma and the second half of Nanna. That’s how deep and meaningful is my brother’s relationship with me. He understands the intimacy of a mother as well as the responsibility of a father. Every woman desires assistance in her life. I count myself extremely fortunate that my brother backs me up in all of my decisions and endeavours. I am proud of him for working to ensure everyone’s well-being. I wish him the best for a long and healthy life.

— MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha, sister of K. T. Rama Rao, Minister for IT E&C; Municipal Administration & Urban Development; Industries & Commerce

‘Akka instilled empathy in me’

My Akka Sucharitha and I have always been more like friends, we’ve had very few disagreements. She is one of the key figures in my life and has instilled empathy in me and been a guiding force throughout. Her humility and simple way of life serve as an example for many, including myself, and I consider it fortunate to have had that kind of inspiration.

— Dr. D. Nageshwara Reddy, chairman and founder, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG).

‘I was the big bully’

Chandra Shekhar Nopany, who is 6 years my senior, is my ‘other half.’ Despite our age difference, I was the big bully in our situation. I was always telling my parents stories about him, waiting at the door every evening with a list of fictitious complaints! But, being the gentleman that he was and is, he would never argue with my parents and would listen to all of my stories. He is a rock in my life and someone I can completely rely on. He always puts my interests first, and I am grateful for the unconditional love shown to me by not only him, but also my bhabhi Shalini, and my nephew and niece, Arhant and Urvi.  

I am proud to describe bhaiya as a most down-to-earth, unassuming (considering he is one of India’s pioneering industrialists’) and humble man, who is not only the best brother a woman could ask for, but also the most devoted son, loving husband and father a family could wish for.  On Rakhi, I can only thank God for having a brother like him.

— Equestrian Shruti Vora

Yin to my Yang

Miheeka has always been the Yin to my Yang. We are polar opposites on many levels, but her being so different from the way I am has actually enriched our bond and beautifully balanced my life. She is patient and calm, whereas I am rash and spontaneous. She’s thoughtful and caring, while I’m a space cadet and a bit of a nomad. She’s always been my punching bag, my reality check, and my staunchest ally.

I bullied her a lot when I was younger, and I still do a lot of it now. She’s always been more afraid of me than of my parents. To be honest, I find that endearingly funny.

“Be nice to your siblings, they’re your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future,” says director, producer, writer and actor Baz Lurhman in a speech. I couldn’t agree more! Your sibling is truly your eternal companion. I bully her a lot, but I’m always very protective of her. She will always be my little sister, whom I will protect for the rest of our lives, no matter how old we get.

— Samarth Bajaj, Entrepreneur

‘We had disagreements when we were young’

While tying the Rakhi, the sister prays to God for her brother’s protection from all evils and for his long life. There is a rekindling of the bonding, and it has become a festival where we meet and celebrate together. Giving gifts may appear to be a formality, but all formalities have a deeper meaning. Having a sister is like having a best friend who has no expectations and only good thoughts for you. My sisters [Kasturi Mutha and the late Sumitra Munoth] and I only had disagreements when we were younger. The most valuable gift is open support for anything at any time. That gave them the confidence to be open with me about any issues in their lives, and they know they can rely on me.

— Narender Surana, MD, Surana Solar Ltd.

 ‘As kids we saw each other as enemies’

A brother-sister relationship is very special and priceless. My older sister – Adireddy Bhavani [TDP MLA] – has turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We used to fight as kids and saw each other as enemies. Our relationship matured as we grew older, and she became a strong support system for me. Even when things get tough, I know I can always count on her for support and sound advice. The best thing about her is that she protects you without even letting you know.

— Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, TDP MP