On the occasion of Gudi Padwa, Marathi mulgi Mrunal Thakur went down memory lane and shared with Bombay Times the rituals and celebrations at her home on the day of the festival.

Revealing why the day calls for dual celebrations, she said, “Gudi Padwa or the Marathi New Year is auspicious for Maharashtrians as it marks new beginnings and signifies the arrival of spring. It brings a lot of joy and positivity. We also celebrate my dad’s birthday on Gudi Padwa according to the tithi (Hindu calendar), so it’s a dual celebration each year at my home.”

Sharing her plans, she added, “Gudi ubhaarnyat khoop ananda hoto (it gives me immense joy to hoist the Gudi outside the balcony or a window). A brand new saree is wrapped at the top of a long bamboo. On top of it, neem leaves and sugar garlands are attached along with flowers. This arrangement is capped with a pot (handi or kalash) and hoisted outside in the morning. We do the puja and offer naivedya (food offered to God). Lunch is served on a banana leaf. The Gudi is taken down before sunset. Like each year, this time too I am celebrating the festival with my family at my parents’ house.”

Mrunal says, “We make some noise and gorge on delicious puran polis, which are mandatory in any Maharashtrian household on the occasion. It’s nice to spend Gudi Padwa mornings with the family and take a break from our hectic lives.”

The actress loves her saris, and what’s better than wearing her mother’s saris for the festival? “I am in love with sarees, and recently I stumbled upon some of my mom’s lovely saris, so I am wearing her saree this year. And I will be teaming it up with a nath. Getting dressed is another favourite part of the festival. You can give time to yourself and your family and time to dress up.”

Reflecting on the years gone by and how she loves festivals, the Jersey actress added, “I love the concept of festivals. Dressing up, having delicious homecooked food and getting together with your family… all these things keep us grounded and rooted in our culture. I am glad that I live in a country where we celebrate so many festivals with equal vigour. May Gudi Padwa bring everyone joy, good health and prosperity.”