Asin feels the Xmas spirit

The effervescent Asin Thottumkal, who hails from a Catholic family in Kerala, has three festivals marked out on her calendar each year. One is Onam, and the other two are Christmas and New Year.

“I’m usually home in Kerala for these festivals,’’ says Asin who has a palatial home in God’s own country. She remembers with fondness her schooling years when cousins, uncles and aunts arrived at their residence to put up the Christmas tree and then decorate it with jewels, gifts and lights. “We also put up a crib each year,’’ says the Bollywood star.

She can’t recall making any kalkals and marzipaan, but yes, food at the lunch table included a wide variety of cakes —because almost every aunt baked one; and also the best chicken and mutton dishes made in Malayali style. Asin herself is primarily vegetarian but, of course, she does partake in goodies occasionally.

“I’m upset I can’t go home for Christmas this year,’’ she says but she has planned her own little do here in her Mumbai home. “Christmas is not so much about parties for me,’’ says the actress, “but I do give ample importance to the spirit of the festival.

It is a time to remember the Lord and it also a time to spread the message of joy.”
Asin recalls how each year she got some plump uncle or cousin to dress as Santa Claus with all details — from the outfit to the beard and make-up in place. “We distributed gifts amongst ourselves,’’ she laughs. “I try my best not to shoot on Christmas because it is family time,’’ she adds. “However, sometimes things don’t go as planned.’’

While wishing all the readers of BT a Merry Christmas, the actress adds that this is one time of the year when she could break into a song because the spirit of the festival is absolutely infectious.