No Big Deal

Data supports how big Valentine’s Day is in the US. Despite recession,half the adult population acknowledges the day by purchasing at least one card,and according to Google Trends,Valentine’s Day is the tenth most searched topic today. Seventy three per cent of flowers bought in the US are by adult males. In India,we’re a long way from hitting these numbers. While there are many converts to the V-Day hoopla,there are enough of us sceptics who find the concept inexplicable. I’m all for freedom of choice,but I find this is the only time I agree with the Shiv Sainiks when they protest on Valentine’s Day. Not because “It’s against our culture” but there’s something inherently phony about dedicating a particular day to “love”. Even worse,the same day,every year. It’s as if Valentine’s Day comes along and you’ll automatically spring into passion mode. When actually the lack of spontaneity and contrived gaiety could make the day a punishing ordeal.

I don’t know enough 17-year-olds who confide in me about their elaborate plans for February 14,but one told me she’s baked a heart shaped cake for her boyfriend. She didn’t find it horribly cheesy and uncool to admit it. While she didn’t exactly specify,it is clear that she’s expecting a darned good gift in return. This is the demographic that will ensure that Valentine’s will be equally big in India in the years to come. For the rest of us jaded,slightly outdated,and possibly narrow minded souls,we can join one of the 171 anti Valentine’s Day groups on Facebook. Or you can enjoy a marathon movie session. Zee Studio is showing classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s,Love Story and Sweet Home Alabama today. Happy Valentine’s. (hutkayfilms@gmail.com)