Bhai Phonta preps keep Iman busy

Iman Chakraborty is super busy with Bhai Phonta preparations. The singer has as many as 20 people in queue to celebrate the auspicious occasion with. “Protibochor ami kuri jonke phonta di. Now you can imagine the amount of preparations that I have to do. Though I don’t have a sibling, mine is a joint family and I take Bhai Phonta very seriously,” she told us.
Iman’s phonta starts right in the morning. “The day begins with my cousins — dadabhai and two younger brothers (uncle’s sons). Then comes Bikashda, my dadabhai’s friend, who is as close as my other brothers. I have been giving him phonta since childhood. Then comes the turn of my entire band. Since we have seven men playing music while I am the singer, we often refer to ourselves as ‘Saat Bhai

Champa

’. I give phonta to all of them. Besides, I also celebrate with my manager and driver Naru — two of the most important people in my life. There are others on the list too,” the singer said.
But what about the gifts, we asked. “This year, I have bought them clothes. Since winter is round the corner, I am gifting hoodies to my brothers. I receive a lot of gifts too. From books, chocolates to earrings — my stash gets bigger and bigger,” Iman added.
The musician, who returned from her US trip on October 15, enjoyed Kali Puja with her family. “I usually spend Durga Puja abroad doing shows. Hence, I try to spend Diwali with my family. I decorated the house with my father, my daughter (her pet

dog

, Bulbuli) and the entire family. It was fun!” Iman signed off.