M A I N   N E W S

For Sania bhabhi from Pak: A golden crown
Reception sees a perfect display of Indo-Pak bonhomie
Suresh Dharur
Tribune News Service

Hyderabad, April 15
The Indo-Pak bilateral relations may still be frosty but there is enough warmth in the hearts of people on either side of the border. A proof of this contrast was in full display at the glittering wedding reception of tennis star Sania Mirza and Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik here tonight.

The elegant Ball Room at Taj Krishna hotel, which hosted a gathering of celebrities and well-wishers of the two sporting icons, was bathed in sub-continental warmth and affection.

A fusion of Indian and Pakistani music wafted through the air while the best of the cuisine from the two countries was served to the guests, who included film stars, sports personalities and politicians from both countries. The people of Sialkot, the hometown of the Pakistani cricketer, sent a golden crown and other gifts to Sania ‘bhabhi’. Pakistan’s Minister for Population Firdous Ashiq Awan placed the intricate golden crown on the bride’s head and declared it as a symbol of love from the people of her country.

The entourage from across the border included fast bowler Sohail Tanveer and popular Punjabi singer Waris Baig and other friends of the cricketer.

“The newly-wed couple will be brand ambassadors for Pakistan’s population welfare program,” Awan, who represents Sialkot in the Parliament, said. “The marriage of Sania and Shoaib will help in promoting friendship between the two countries,” she said.

The reception venue provided a perfect backdrop for Indo-Pak Jugalbandi. Sania's uncle and famous ghazal singer Talat Aziz rendered a special song which was matched by another beautiful song for the newly-wed couple by Waris Baig. “Sania is bhabhi of Pakistan. She is our honour and prestige,” cricketer Tanveer said, adding that he has come here as a representative of the entire Pakistani cricket team. “The entire Pakistani nation and Pakistani team is very happy and excited that Shoaib bhai has made Sania our bhabhi,” he said.