30th August 2023, Mumbai: Raksha Bandhan is more than just a day of rituals and ceremonies for social media stars Jannat Zubair (22) and her brother Ayaan Zubair (16). It’s a testament to their unbreakable bond as siblings and their roles as each other’s support system, partners in crime, and best friends. Their relationship is a beautiful testament to the love that siblings share, transcending age gaps and evolving into a unique blend of protection, advice, and companionship.
Jannat’s the act of tying a rakhi on Ayaan’s wrist
Their Raksha Bandhan celebrations have never been grand affairs, but for Jannat, the act of tying a rakhi on Ayaan’s wrist and surprising him with thoughtful gifts holds immense significance. With a playful grin, she lets out, “But he hasn’t given me a gift yet!” Ayaan, on the other hand, has his eyes set on a gaming laptop this time, although his request has met with a loving denial from his ever-protective sister. “I have said no to him. I am very protective that way. I have told Ayaan to think about what he wants and not waste it on anything random,” Jannat chuckles.
Perfect Balance for Jannat Zubair
The beautiful thing about their relationship is the mutual protection they offer to each other, each stepping up in their unique ways. Jannat explains, “It totally depends on the situation. When it comes to physical protection, Ayaan is always there. For example, if I am outside, he makes sure that I don’t walk on the side of traffic. Even when there are paps around, he always is very protective and covers me while we leave. And he keeps an eye out that no one gets too close to me.” Ayaan, in turn, reveals that Jannat’s protective nature shines when it’s about decision-making. “She gives the best advice and warns me against things that might hurt me. And I have blind trust ki wo jo bol rahi hain wo mere acche ke liye bolrahi hai,” he shares. It’s a perfect balance, with each sibling safeguarding the other in their unique ways.
Jannat recalls memories with a fond smile.
Jannat’s warmth towards Ayaan’s insights is evident as she remarks, “He is like that big brother. Jab uski age single digit me thi na, wo tab se humaare saare discussions mein participate karta hai.” Ayaan’s young age hasn’t deterred him from contributing meaningful suggestions. “I remember there was a song I was doing and Ayaan was finding too many problems in it, which neither me nor our parents felt. And I took it way too seriously and told my dad that I don’t want to release it. We had to take a lot of time to rectify it and then go ahead,” Jannat recalls with a fond smile.
A Bond Beyond Of Protection
However, their bond goes beyond protection and advice; it’s also deeply rooted in friendship. Despite the six-year age gap, Jannat admits, “I do not have many friends but I have a lot of fun with Ayaan.” Their shared trip to Goa was a Proof to this friendship, as Ayaan explains, “We would go out to swim every day and play songs in our room and party together. We do not need plans to have fun. Just sitting together, having popcorn and watching movies is sometimes all that we need after a bad day. We bond over anything and everything. We go out for drives. We go to the gym together.” Their bond is sealed with a playful twist, with Ayaan often playing pranks on Jannat, much to her chagrin. “I hate it (laughs) but he plays a lot of pranks. I remember once he had put a mug of water on top of the door and as soon as I opened it, the water fell on me and he recorded that,” Jannat chuckles.
Jannat & Ayaan’s journey from distant siblings to inseparable companions
Their bond, however, was not always this strong. Their journey from distant siblings to inseparable companions was catalyzed by their shared work. “It was after we started spending enough time on the set that we grew closer. Kyuki poore time hum saath rehte the, we would shoot videos together,” says Jannat. This closeness evolved into an unbreakable emotional connection, where they confide in each other and share even the minutest of details. “What makes our bond special is that we are great secret keepers. Agar kuch btaaya hai, toh wo kabhi kisi se share nahi karte. We never spill the beans. Even parents don’t know about a lot of things but we tell it to each other,” they say in unison.
In a world where relationships are often complicated, Jannat and Ayaan’s sibling bond stands out as a remarkable example of support, friendship, and unwavering protection. Their story reminds us that the best friendships can often be found within our own families, and the strength of a sibling relationship can transcend time, age, and life’s trials.
By Yashika Desai