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The dabbawallahs in Mumbai will be sending gifts to Prince Charles on his wedding with Camilla Parker Bowles, scheduled for April 8.
"We have decided to send the bride, Camilla Parker Bowles, a Kolhapuri navvari (nine yards) sari, and a blouse and a Maharashtrian turban for Prince Charles," Tiffin Box Suppliers' Association president Raghunath Medge told PTI.
"It is a mark of our respect for Prince Charles, whom we love and have great regard for," he said.
"Though so many big people have come to Mumbai, only Prince Charles took the time to meet and enquire about us during his visit to the city last year," Medge said.
He said the association planned to buy the presents by Monday evening from a shop at Andheri. "We will then be sending it across to the Prince through a courier," he said.
The association was also planning to send green glass bangles, as they were considered auspicious. But a final decision has not been taken, Medge said. Around 5,000 dabbawallahs have pooled in contributions ranging from Rs 10 to Rs 25 for the gifts. "It is not possible to collect money from all dabbawallahs, but we will get contributions from as many people as possible," Medge said.
When Prince of Wales Charles visited Mumbai last year he had met the dabbawallahs and struck a friendly chord with them.
Medge said it would not be possible for anyone from the association to attend the marriage, but 'we will be showing our affection to the Prince by sending our presents'.