Turning 70 is a milestone worth celebrating, and legendary danseuse Tanusree Shankar experienced it in abundance this year. Thoughtfully planned by her daughter Sreenanda Shankar, the celebrations began with an intimate Sunday brunch where friends and loved ones gathered over food, conversation, and cherished moments of togethernessA daughter’s tributeThough Tanusree Shankar’s actual birthday was yesterday, Sreenanda hosted the brunch on Sunday so that friends could be part of the revelry. The celebrations continued through Monday, reflecting her mother’s love for food, family, and dance. On Monday, Tanusree took the academy’s dancers out for a Bengali lunch, followed by a family dinner at home, with Sreenanda cooking all the dishes. The occasion felt more special as Tanusree wore a sari gifted by her daughter to the brunch.
A brunch to savourAs a daughter, it was Sreenanda’s heartfelt wish to make her mother’s 70th birthday special. The Sunday brunch unfolded as a relaxed gathering where good food and easy conversation set the tone. “If it’s a party hosted by me, the food has to be fabulous, as I am a foodie. All the dishes were curated keeping maa’s tastes in mind,” quipped Sreenanda. With grills sizzling, an egg counter, appams with stew, and Bengali and Punjabi dishes, the brunch ended with beautiful desserts, turning the event into a warm tribute to the danseuse.The sari my mother wore for the birthday brunch was my gift, and she looked beautiful in it. I wear maa’s saris pretty often, so I chose an indigo silk one for myself – light, elegant, and perfect for a brunch – Sreenanda ShankarI still don’t feel 70 at heart, but 17. The brunch organised by Sreenanda, with all my friends in attendance, made the day so special– Tanusree ShankarPics: Rashbehari Das