Actor Pratik Gandhi, who shifted to Mumbai few years ago, is planning to visit home this year to relive the “authentic essence” of Navratri. “I am planning to go to Surat for at least a couple of days since the vibrant atmosphere and energy there is unparalleled,” shares Gandhi.

Reminiscing about the unique charm of garba and dandiya nights back at home, he says: “Chhote shehron mein aise festivals ka alag maza hota hai. Wahan har din ka alag khaana hota hai. Bazaaron mein jaakar kapde khareedne ka maza hota hai,” he explains, adding that despite the grand celebrations that Mumbai witnesses, they have “taken on a more commercialized approach”.

“It’s more about purchasing passes for attending organized events. [In Gujarat], I don’t remember buying tickets to go to these events,” Gandhi explains.

What about celebrations in Mumbai? “Several friends of mine perform during the festival, so I visit them and attend events with family. We go pandal-hopping and spend time together at home,” the 43-year-old says, adding: “But there is one thing we do every year with utmost faith. Humare ghar me 9 din tak akhand diya jaalaya jaata hai, making sure it’s done properly.”