Exclusive! Riddhima Kapoor Sahni: The first Bhaidooj with Ranbir after dad passed away was especially emotional

For Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Bhaidooj has always been more than just a ritual — it’s a celebration of love, rooted in tradition and filled with shared memories with her brother, Ranbir Kapoor. But after their father, the legendary Rishi Kapoor, passed away, the festival took on a deeper, more emotional significance.

“The first Bhaidooj after dad passed away was especially emotional.

It felt like something was missing, but at the same time, it grounded us. We knew he’d be smiling down on us, proud that we were keeping our family traditions alive.”In the Kapoor household, Bhaidooj has long been a simple yet heartfelt occasion. Riddhima describes it as a “beautiful mix of tradition and togetherness.” The day begins with the traditional tika, aarti, and prayers for each other’s well-being, followed by a warm family lunch — more about connection than grand gestures.

Growing up, both Rishi and Neetu Kapoor instilled in their children a deep respect for family and tradition.

Rishi, ever the storyteller, often shared memories of his own siblings, while Neetu ensured that every festival, no matter how busy life got, was filled with meaning. “Mom always said, ‘Festivals are about connection,’” Riddhima says. “Even if we weren’t in the same city, she’d make sure we called or sent love across.

That mattered.”Ranbir, though not one for overt displays of emotion, has had his moments of surprising tenderness. “He’s not big on grand gestures, but when he does something thoughtful, it really melts your heart,” Riddhima admits with a smile. When asked to sum him up as a brother, she calls him “quiet strength with a heart of gold.” There are life lessons too. “Ranbir has taught me the value of calmness. He never overreacts.

He processes everything quietly and responds with thoughtfulness.

Watching him navigate life’s ups and downs has reminded me to pause, breathe, and keep perspective.”Now, as a mother herself, Riddhima is keen to pass down these values to her daughter, Samara. “I want her to understand that Bhai Dooj — or Raksha Bandhan — isn’t just about the rituals. It’s about cherishing and protecting that sibling bond, about valuing family, tradition, and emotional warmth. That’s what I grew up with, and that’s what I hope she carries forward.”