Anirban Das (MID-DAY; October 16, 2015)

Rani Mukerji’s family has been organising Durga Puja in the city for 67 years and star attraction are the actress and her famous cousin, Kajol stepping out to serve bhog to devotees. This year, however, Rani, is not going to be visiting it.

Last year, the Mardaani actress hosted early celebrations since she had to travel for work, but this time round, she will miss out on the festivities with her family entirely.

According to buzz, Rani and her filmmaker-hubby Aditya Chopra are expecting their first child to arrive in January. Sources claim the actress wants to avoid being snapped with a baby bump and has, therefore, flown out of India. Two months ago, fans in London had reportedly seen her at a spa getting a pre-natal massage.

Deb Mukherji, secretary of the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja, which Rani’s family hosts, says, “Everybody is invited. The committee does not send out invitations. Rani comes every year and serves the bhog. But I am not sure if she will do it this year"

The actress’ spokesperson confirms that she won’t be in Mumbai during the festival. The pandal is usually graced by a bevy of Bengali Bollywood celebrities including Ayan Mukerji, Anurag Basu, Bappi Lahiri and Pritam