Showing posts with label Navratri. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Navratri. Show all posts
Until I was 21 or 22, I had no idea what Garba was-Ayushmann Khurrana
9:47 AM
Nishad Neelambaran (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 11, 2026)
Ayushmann Khurrana is all geared up for the festivals. This time, it is a lot more special because he has a packed festive season with two very distinct projects. Though he is busy promoting his upcoming films, Navratri, which begins today, is all about family and celebrations at home. From celebrating simple Navratri in Chandigarh to a “much more vibrant Navratri in Mumbai, Ayushmann is all ready for the festival. The 42-year-old actor, who hails from Punjab, says that the way he celebrates these nine days has changed drastically. He shares that the celebrations were simple and traditional back in Chandigarh.
“The meaning of Navratri has changed for me over the years. In Chandigarh, it was fasting with my mother. On the eighth day, she would make kuttu ke atte ki tikki with potato inside, and we’d have it with curd. That was it,” he adds.
However, after college, when he moved to Ahmedabad for a six-month course at MICA, he witnessed the festival in all its glory.
“Until I was 21 or 22, I had no idea what Garba was. I had only seen pictures. I hadn’t been outside Punjab and Chandigarh before, so my first trip out was to Gujarat, in 2006-07. So, a 22-year-old boy from Punjab went to a Garba night. It was so colourful, so vibrant, so youthful. It was such a huge festival,” he says.
His journey brought him to Mumbai in 2008, and he had “another revelation” about Navratri here. “I shifted to Mumbai in 2008-09 and found out that people wear a designated colour for every day of Navratri. In Chandigarh it was simple: you fast, and on the tenth day it’s Dussehra,” says the National Award-winning actor, adding, “My mother shifted to Mumbai after my father passed away three years ago. She is very religious and traditional, and she made friends on her own. For the first time, there were friends who weren’t Punjabis. She learnt about the colour for each day, and last year she started celebrating it. Now she’s excited for this Navratri.”
Ayushmann loves celebrating Navratri and other festivals with his wife and writer Tahira Kashyap Khurrana, kids Virajveer and Varushka, and his mother, Poonam Khurrana, brother and actor Aparshakti Khurrana and family. Talking about the celebrations now, he says, “Now we follow the tradition of a different colour each day. We’ve come a long way from basic Punjabi Navratri in Chandigarh to a very vibrant Mumbai Navratri. That’s a giant leap, a cultural exchange, bringing another culture into our home. Navratri is very new for us, and it’s beautiful. We really enjoy it.”
The Vicky Donor (2012) actor associates festivals with changing weather in Chandigarh. And Navratri, according to him, is when the weather starts getting more pleasant back home.
“In Chandigarh, the weather starts to change around this time. Mumbai’s October is the worst: humid and hot. But in Chandigarh, the mornings and evenings get a little cooler. I associate Navratri and Dussehra with that change in weather.”
Ayushmann is very religious and has been raised with all the traditional values. He recalls fasting with his mother in Chandigarh, but this year, because of work, he says he will not be able to. “I used to fast when I was in Chandigarh with my mom. Now, with the shoot schedule, I have two films lined up back to back, with promotions on for both. It has become difficult.”
So, does he go off his diet chart for festive food? He says, “If I’m home, I’ll have that tikki, which is fried... So yes, one day of treat. I have a good metabolism, so I can afford a cheat meal.”
When he is home, he loves spending time with his kids Virajveer (14) and Varushka (12). Ayushmann says he loves playing Table Tennis and football with them, but also keeps the tradition of exchanging music.
“I also discover music. I run a property on Instagram where I recommend new artists every month. Both my kids are into music, and we exchange music. That’s a tradition from my father. Until his last breath, we exchanged music. It’s been a love language in our family,” he shares.
Ayushmann has known Tahira since he was 17 years old. And festivals were a major celebration for the couple then, too.
“I’ve known her since I was 17. I used to distribute sweets to all our family friends myself. We also celebrated Christmas. I was in a convent school, and she loved Christmas too, and it’s very cold in Chandigarh in December. Festivals go hand in hand with the weather there. So, for us, it was Diwali and Christmas,” he reveals.
However, he says it was extra special after marriage. The duo got married in 2008, and the firsts at home are part of his core memory now.
“With Punjabi families it’s always about the firsts: first Lohri, first Diwali, first Holi. Diwali is the most important festival, and that’s when we all meet: my family, my wife’s family, my brother’s family. Everybody is into music, so we sing and play, and it goes on till midnight,” says the Andhadhun (2018) actor.
On the work front, Ayushmann’s Udta Teer is scheduled to release on October 23 and Sooraj Barjatiya’s Yeh Prem Mol Liya on November 27. Talking about his films, he says, “They are completely different genres. I think Udta Teer is a genre breaker for me, and Yeh Prem Mol Liya is a classic family drama, the kind we haven’t seen in so long. There is more to come next year with Mupapa on February 19.”
Yeh Prem Mol Liya with Sharvari makes him a Rajshri Productions hero. And the character Prem is very closely associated with actor Salman Khan, who played the lead in many of Barjatiya’s family drama. Ask him how does it feel to be the famous Prem, and he says, “That’s too much pressure, and I’m not taking it. Salman Bhai is the OG Prem, the real Prem. I revere him, I grew up watching his films, and he’s a mega star.”
When it comes to garba songs in films, my personal favourite is Gori Radha Ne Kalo Kaan-Pratik Gandhi
3:47 PM
Soumitra Das (BOMBAY TIMES; October 1, 2025)
“Navratri certainly feels more special this year,” says Pratik Gandhi, who is back to Mumbai after attending three prestigious film festivals abroad. Gandhi, co-starring his actress-wife Bhamini Oza Gandhi, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Phule was screened at the India Film Festival of Alberta (IFFA) 2025 and Ghamasaan was showcased at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival (CSAFF).
He adds, “It happened for the first time in my career that three of my projects were screened at prestigious festivals, and I could attend all of them. I guess I have some special connection with Ganesh Chaturthi too. Right since Bey Yaar (2014), my debut Gujarati film, some of my major films have been released around the festival and done well.” Excerpts from a chat:
‘I love playing garba with friends in Mumbai’
This year, it has rained a lot in Mumbai, and it has impacted some garba venues adversely. I have been busy shooting and will also have to attend some events, but I hope I get to play garba with friends for a day or two. You need a group of friends to enjoy garba to the fullest. If nothing works out, I will invite friends and play garba at home this time. When it comes to garba songs in films, my personal favourite is Gori Radha Ne Kalo Kaan from my film Wrong Side Raju. I also love all songs from Hellaro, especially Vaagyo Re Dhol. I have grown up listening to Falguni Pathak’s garba songs. Bachpan mein toh cassettes play karte thay, and mujhe abhi bhi chronology yaad hai! I also love Bhoomi Trivedi and Aditya Gadhvi’s garba songs.”
‘I love the positive energy all around during Navratri’
What I love the most about the festival is the positive energy all around. Everything feels really vibrant. Miraya (his daughter) loves playing garba too, although she is still not a pro when it comes to garba steps. I think I could last play garba properly about three years back, when we visited a couple of garba venues, where Parthiv Gohil and Bhoomi Trivedi performed. I prefer wearing something comfortable while playing garba-like kurta-pyjama, or a loose dhoti.
‘I will never forget celebrating Navratri in Vadodara’
In 2016, while promoting my film Wrong Side Raju in Vadodara, I visited the United Way of Baroda during Navratri, and it was just magical. I will never forget that experience. I think there were 50,000 revellers playing garba together, in huge circles, and all of them were in sync and doing the same steps. I have never seen anything like that till date. I was mesmerised.
‘Attending TIFF was an experience of a lifetime’
Attending the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) was an experience of a lifetime because it is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, and Gandhi became the first Indian series to premiere at the TIFF’s Primetime programme. Be it as a subject or character, Gandhi has played a special role in my career. I met several distinguished cinephiles at the festival and when they had such good things to say about the series and we got a standing ovation, it felt surreal. It gave me a lot of confidence and interacting with people there was a very enriching experience.
‘I really miss playing garba in Surat’
Pratik and Bhamini, who tied the knot in 2008, have been living in Mumbai since then. Pratik says that he really misses playing garba in Surat, his hometown. He shares, “We had a group of 25 friends, and we visited multiple garba venues every day. I loved learning new garba steps and we would play till 2am. I was very fond of Surat’s sheri garbas. I really miss it.”
He adds, “Also, I loved attending the evening aarti at our housing society and I would discuss with my mother about what to offer as prasad. I also visited two famous temples in Surat with my mother every year. Those childhood memories remain very close to my heart.”
Amar Upadhyay on being compared to Shah Rukh Khan–Kajol jodi with Smriti Irani: "We are the OGs of romance"
9:38 AM
Kanksha Vasavada (BOMBAY TIMES; September 29, 2025)
While he doesn’t get much time to celebrate Navratri now, “playing garba is therapeutic and a great stressbuster” for Amar Upadhyay.
The Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi actor, who was born and brought up in Mumbai, shares, “I miss playing garba. During my childhood, I used to play garba every day during Navratri. But now, I am usually busy with work and so, I just visit garba venues for appearances. This time, I am shooting daily during Navratri, so I haven’t been to any event. Once I moved to Malad, regular celebrations became rare. We would take our children to garba events till the time they turned teenagers. Now, they go out on their own whenever possible.” Excerpts from a chat:
‘My father used to sing garbas’
I grew up in Kandivali, and Navratri was always fun. My friends and I would be excited the moment we saw the tempo filled with mandap ka saaman, and people setting it up. My father is a singer; he used to sing garbas at our pandal which was located between two housing societies, and we used to play garba. We waited for the weekend, as Saturday ko puri raat garba chalta tha. Hum garba khelne ke baad chai pite thay, prasad khaate thay. There were no garba classes then, so my friends and I used to decide every day that aaj yeh step karenge (laughs). My childhood memories of Navratri are fantastic. I prefer donning only traditional outfits, especially simple kurta-pyjamas. As kids, we got new kurtas every Navratri and wore them. Phir last ke dino mein wohi kurtas repeat bhi karte thay (laughs).
‘Filmi songs have no connection to the festival’
I believe old is gold. The garba songs we have grown up listening to are the actual ones. Today, we hear filmi songs during Navratri, which have no connection to the festival. Understandably, everything has become commercial now. But I feel Navratri playlists shouldn’t lose the Gujarati touch. There are so many garba and folk songs in our culture which are so rich, so why not do garba on those? We (Gujaratis) are known for our garba songs across the world, so we should preserve and cherish them.
‘Navratri celebrations in my hometown are very traditional’
I am from Bhiloda, and Navratri celebrations there are beautiful, pure, traditional and wholesome. I was there for Navratri some years ago, and we celebrated every day. We played garba all night and used to sleep all morning. My father and aunt used to sing garba there, and be it dance steps or outfits, everything is traditional. My father still goes there every year and shares pictures and videos.
----------------------------------------
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; September 30, 2025)
Life has not been the same ever since Amar Upadhyay returned as his most-loved character Mihir Virani in Ektaa R Kapoor’s Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. The reactions to the popular show have left him overwhelmed and thrilled. The best part is the ever-changing landscape of television, shares the actor.
“I am enjoying it more than the first season because of the different scenes, better writing, level of performances, and the way it is shot. Technological enhancements like the camera setups [have advanced]. We can shoot in one flow and close-ups can be taken simultaneously with the master shots,” explains the actor.
Upadhyay laughs when Smriti Irani and he are referred to as the Kajol and Shah Rukh Khan of television. He says, “Mihir and Tulsi are the OGs of romance.”
However, he feels that their experience of working together for years translates on screen. He notes, “We just read our lines and know what is required for the scene, what can make it stronger, and more impactful.”
While storytelling has changed, what thrills Upadhyay is the flood of offers pouring in — from movies, TV shows, to web series. He has greenlit a few roles that see him play a cop and a lawyer among others, but finding time for everything has become a challenge.
“I have been approached to play a cop in one, along with a superstar. It’s been a dream to play a policeman or lawyer or maybe do a love story or hardcore gangster role. I got another offer for a crime drama on OTT, but because I am shooting every day, I haven’t been able to do many meetings,” he says.
The daily soap, said to air for another six months, has the actor working 28 days a month. So much so that when a TV show came his way, he had to let it go. “I am so tied up with Kyunki... that I cannot take them up as Mihir and Tulsi are there in almost every scene,” he signs off.
I did bhagwan ji ki aarti on all days and decided propose to a girl on the last day of Navratri-Vishal Jethwa
2:59 PM
Yesha Bhatt (BOMBAY TIMES; September 24, 2025)
Vishal Jethwa, whose film Homebound has just been selected as India’s official entry for Oscars 2026, is on cloud nine these days. Talking about Navratri celebrations, the Mardaani 2 actor, who enjoys attending garba with his brother and mother, says, “Actually I don’t know how to play garba much, but I enjoy the vibe of a garba venue. Now, I have friends like Kinjal Dave and Geetaben Rabari (prominent singers). I also attend Falguni Pathak and Osman Mir’s events.”
‘My mom and brother force me to dress up during Navratri’
Vishal, who shot to fame with the TV show Bharat Ka Veer Putra- Maharana Pratap, does not enjoy dressing up. He says, “I am not too fond of dressing up and going out. So, I feel pressured during Navratri. I like to move around in comfortable clothes, but my brother and mom force me to wear flashy clothes during Navratri. So now, I try to style myself and make that effort to dress better.”
He adds, “The onus of styling me is on my brother. However, I had once done a photoshoot in a kediyu to get into that garba groove.”
‘We used to do hip-hop garba in childhood’
While he has not been able to play garba in recent times due to work commitments, Vishal says, “Bachpan mein we used to celebrate and go out on all nine days. We used to do hip-hop garba, which looked cool. It was a locking and popping kind of garba. After that, I got busy with work and later, I realised that more than dancing, I enjoy singing and listening to songs. Now, I just go on the stage and dance for a while, that’s it.”
‘I hope we don’t forget the authentic garba styles and songs’
Despite being a Gujarati and having travelled to the state often, Vishal never had a chance to experience Navratri in Gujarat.
He says, “I have never had a chance to attend Navratri events in Gujarat. But I plan to come to Gujarat this year.”
While new-age demands have led to singers trying to tweak lyrics and music, Vishal is worried that it might eventually ruin the authenticity and experience of a garba song.
He says, “I hope that in a bid to live up to the new-age demands, we don’t forget the authentic garba styles and songs. Jo original culture hai woh intact rehna chahiye. Just because logon ko naye styles chahiye, we should not forget the original songs. Jo lokgeet hai woh kabhi khatam nahi hona chahiye. There should be a balance between modernisation and staying true to your roots.”
‘Once, I wanted to propose to a girl during Navratri’
While growing up, I used to play garba on all nine days and wore proper Navratri attire. Once, I liked a girl in my housing society so much that maine mannat maang li thi, that I would read bhagwan ji ki aarti on all days and propose to her on the last day. I thought bhagwan ji bhi mujhe fully support karenge. But on the final day, when the time came to propose to her, I did not have the courage to ask her out.
I got to know the extent of Khalasi going viral only a few weeks ago-Achint Thakkar
2:52 PM
The musician on how the Navratri season gave impetus to his track, which has transcended language barriers
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 28, 2023)
If you’re a social media user, you’re unlikely to have missed the countless renditions and dance performance videos on the viral song Khalasi that have flooded social networking platforms. The Gujarati track, composed by Achint Thakkar and sung by Aditya Gadhvi, was released in July, but it became a hit during the Navratri season. Thakkar is amazed by the love it has received.
“We worked on it last year and it got a good response [when we released it in July]. But because of the sudden Navratri boom, the song had a snowball effect. I got to know the extent of the virality only a few weeks ago, when a lot of people started calling and texting,” he says, exclusively.
While the 33-year-old is still catching up with the craze around Khalasi, he adds that he is quite low-key on social media: “I didn’t know what was happening on Instagram, because I just access it to post something and leave. I am not too active. I remember seeing Quick Style (Norwegian dance group) making a reel on Khalasi,” he adds.
Interestingly, the song has got music lovers from across the board grooving, including non-Gujaratis. “This shows how inherently universal music is,” says Thakkar, adding, “It could have been in any language. We just hum the tune of so many songs, Despacito (by Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi), for instance. It’s also how Punjabi music works, even if most of us don’t speak Punjabi.”
On Navaratri, it’s all about women's power, voice and standing in society-Rakul Preet Singh
8:10 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; October 16, 2023)
Rakul Preet Singh cherishes memories of celebrating Navaratri in a grand way as a kid. But over the years, she has gained a different perspective on the relevance of these glorious Indian festivals and their significance in our lives. As a self-made, successful actress in Bollywood, she looks at Navaratri as a celebration of the spirit of womanhood.
She says, “In our mythology, there is so much importance given to the power of women and there are festivals celebrating that. Somewhere, we probably lost our way and became a patriarchal society. I feel these festivals remind us of the power each woman possesses. Women are the most beautiful beings on the planet. We are strong and empathetic. Each woman should rise above the rituals of a festival and understand its true significance. On Navaratri, it’s all about her power, voice, and standing in society.”
However, she can’t wait to revel in the festive feeling of a deluge of people coming together as one, irrespective of state, religion, or language, and just exuding pure joy to mark the festival. “It’s beautiful to see so many people forget their daily struggles, their differences, dancing to the vibe around and sharing so much happiness, which is special. And that’s how I like celebrating my festivals,” she shares, adding, “For Navaratri, if I get time off from my schedule, I plan to go for a garba or dandiya night where I can be part of this oneness that Indian festivals embody. And what better place to do that than Mumbai!”
And what about her Navaratri OOTDs? Well, for festivals, Rakul believes in keeping it traditional yet comfortable. “Festivals are about sharing joy with people, not about getting stuck in a dress so bad that you can’t move around freely! For Navaratri, I opt for easy, free-flowing Indian outfits, lighter earrings, pops of bright colours… so I can feel close to my Indian roots, but at the same time, enjoy,” she signs off.
I’m planning to go to Surat after 20 years for Navratri-Pratik Gandhi
8:36 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 15, 2023)
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.”
I started sending hints to the director that I needed a couple of days off for Navratri-Pratik Gandhi
8:46 AM
Abhimanyu Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; October 3, 2022)
Pratik Gandhi is a diehard garba enthusiast and loves to soak in the Navratri fervour. Even though Pratik is currently shooting for his next project in Mumbai, he says he will visit a garba venue during the last two days of Navratri and dance his heart out. Talking to us in between shots, Pratik speaks about his favourite Navratri moments, how he misses his friends and “gang members” from Surat during Navratri and how he is unable to enjoy the festival to the hilt now as he has been keeping extremely busy. Excerpts from a chat:
‘NAVRATRI IS HAPPENING AFTER TWO YEARS, I HAD TO PLAY GARBA THIS YEAR’
Navratri is one festival that I wait for every year and since there were very muted celebrations in the last two years, I was really looking forward to playing garba this year. But my shooting schedule coincided with Navratri and all my plans went for a toss. But the moment I realised that this was going to happen, I started sending hints to the director that I needed a couple of days off for Navratri. Even though I have a jam-packed schedule right now, I will ensure that I go and play garba for the last two days. Navratri is happening after two years, and I had to play garba this year.
‘FEELS GREAT WHEN I SEE FANS GROOVE TO GARBA SONGS FROM MY MOVIES’
I have been lucky to be part of some of the most popular garba songs in the recent past. I hear those songs being played at several venues and feel completely distraught that I am unable to go and enjoy them myself. Such is life, but it also feels great that so many people groove to garba songs from my movies. While growing up, I never imagined that I would reach this far in the entertainment industry.
‘IN MY TEENS, WE PLAYED GARBA THE ENTIRE NIGHT’
When I was in school in Surat, we had a huge gang and all of us used to play garba for the entire night. It was so much fun. It was around that time when the organisers introduced the concept of passes. So, we would go scrounging for passes and since our group was big, we had to do a lot of jugaad to get passes. It used to be a lot of fun. I miss those days.
Navratri has played a huge role in my musical journey-Amit Trivedi
10:16 PM
Soumya Vajpayee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 2, 2022)
Composer-singer Amit Trivedi is rooted in his culture, and he makes sure his music reflects that too. A true-blue Gujarati, the 43-year-old feels a different kind of energy during this time of the year. Sharing what Navratri means to him, Trivedi says, “Navratri used to be a big deal in my house. We would celebrate it with a lot of enthusiasm. Since the festival has been an integral part of my upbringing, it has played a huge role in my musical journey.”
The Badhaai Do and Shabaash Mithu composer is glad that his latest Navratri single, Dhol, has been received well by audiences. His previous track, Moti Veerana, also revolved around the festival. The influence of Navratri on his music dates back to his childhood. Recalling his fond memories of the festival, Trivedi says.
“As a Gujarati, I grew up doing garba and listening to dayro lok geet that my mom would sing at home. And my dad would play Hemant Chauhan’s (folk and bhajan singer from Rajkot, Gujarat) music at home. I also used to perform live at Navratri events before I started composing for films.”
So, does Trivedi enjoy indulging in garba too? “I am a garba lover and I used to do it earlier. But now, due to professional commitments, it becomes a little difficult,” he signs off.
To those with two left feet, worry not! Just make sure you dress to kill on Navratri-Prachi Desai
8:06 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; October 15, 2021)
Though she hails from Gujarat, Prachi Desai’s memories of Navratri are spread over various parts of the world. In a candid chat, the Rock On!! actress shares how watching people play garba is much easier than doing it, connecting with loved ones virtually to celebrate the festival and the craziest thing she once did during Navratri. Read On…
You hail from Surat, Gujarat, where Navratri is celebrated in full gusto. How special is the festival for you and what are the most vibrant memories that have stayed with you so far?
Over the years, this season has taken me places. I have beautiful memories of celebrating the festival not only in Gujarat, but also in Shillong, during a film shoot. I also remember celebrating it in the USA with my family. Navratri has been a carousel of memories that I created while travelling around the globe. I remember, as a kid, attempting to fast during Navratri. I would get this tiny little hand woven potli from my grandmother which had dried fruits in it. That is all that we were supposed to eat for the day, but we would barely make it through the first four hours of the morning and find ourselves sneaking into the kitchen to gorge on food. I feel that Navratri is a celebration in the honour of the Goddess. So, everyone celebrating the festival should reflect on that. It is the celebration of victory of good over evil after all, so one should just feast and dance away.
Navratri calls for showing off your dancing skills. How much do you enjoy playing dandiya or garba? Any tips for those born with two left feet?
I absolutely love to watch people do garba and dandiya. As a little girl I would fancy watching people dancing for hours in their beautiful glittering attire. I feel it is as fun to watch as tough it is to perform. While growing up, I learned a few steps with friends and classmates to perform in school, but over the years I forgot them. It’s a dance form, which is incredibly high in energy and graceful. To those with two left feet, worry not! Just make sure you dress to kill and clap along as you diligently follow the person next to you going round in the circle.
Which is your favourite garba/dandiya track and who is your favourite singer?
A lot of the traditional, folk Gujarati garba and dandiya songs are wonderful. Of late, I have become fond of the songs from the Gujarati film Hellaro. I also absolutely love Shubhaarambh from Kai Po Che. There are so many outstanding singers to choose from, but to name a few, I would say Shruti Pathak, Bhoomi Trivedi, Parthiv Gohil and Divya Kumar.
What’s your Navratri style quotient?
There’s an undeniable magic about the traditional white-red-black mirror-work lehenga cholis and outfits, but I love the more colourful mix-and-match style as well. I often upcycle outfits during festivals and in day-today wear. I’m a strong believer of recycling and reusing. I also pass on my outfits, once I am ready to part with them, to those who would like to wear them. When it comes to shopping, I like picking up outfits from Gujarat and Rajasthan whenever I travel there. They have an amazing collection of beautiful traditional designs that are extremely attractive.
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the celebrations have gone virtual, what’s the one thing you miss about the festival?
Watching the celebrations full of bright lights, colours and high spirits is what I miss the most. But one mustn’t dampen their spirits and find a way to still celebrate in their own way, through virtual celebrations with friends or sharing recipes with family members and definitely not miss out on eco-friendly decorations and lights at home.
What’s the craziest thing that you have done during Navratri?
I think the craziest was when a bunch of us in our high school hostel stayed up all night trying to get the steps right for the weekend celebration on the ground. Post the event, we didn’t make it back to the hostel in time, so we spent the night on the ground, bare feet in lehengas, dancing the night away tirelessly in our hideous amateur make-up. Don’t ask me if I was wearing purple eye shadow (laughs!).
Channelling your inner goddess is about using your voice and spelling out your choices-Vidya Balan
8:09 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; October 13, 2021)
While actresses across film industries, age groups and nationalities have played strong characters on screen, Vidya Balan set a standard that few could match. She chose to play mothers who were unlike the sacrificial kind that Hindi cinema was accustomed to. She played love interests, but not the damsels in distress. She essayed women who were not afraid to make choices, who didn’t always tick the socially acceptable boxes. On the occasion of Navratri and Durga Puja, Vidya speaks exclusively to BT about not just the powerful characters that she has portrayed on screen, but also how every woman should channelise the inner goddess within her. Excerpts:
When we talk about channelling one’s inner goddess or harnessing the power within, how do you interpret and explain the concept?
It’s about so many things… It’s about drawing healthy boundaries, learning to say no, valuing yourself more, using your voice and being authentic and unapologetic, or at least, working towards it. It’s also about valuing and spelling out your choices and what you want in life. The thing is, we have been trained to put ourselves after everyone else around us. Channelling your inner goddess means learning to prioritise ourselves without feeling selfish. We have been taught that everyone else should be our priority, but it is for us to realise that our needs, desires and wants can be placed alongside what we do for others. Channelling your inner goddess means acknowledging that you have the right to a life of your choice and dreams, focussing on your own health and taking that break when you are bogged down, asking for help and support instead of trying to be a superwoman.
In recent times, the audience that consumes Hindi cinema is more than willing to embrace strong female characters on screen who live by their own ideals, morals and rules. What inspires you to pick such characters?
I guess I try to practice what I just said, and so, I get drawn to these stories naturally. I have often spoken about how I came to accept myself the way I am and what it took me to do that. You have to be in allowance of your dreams that are beyond you or doing something that no one in your family has done before. You have to know and accept that there will be days when you will be more acceptable to people and some days when you won’t be, and that it’s okay. There will be days when I am angry, or badly behaved or something like that; there will be days when I am intolerant, and days when I am kind, compassionate and giving. All of that is a part of me and should be first accepted by me.
About a decade ago, my mother had put me in touch with a healer. I was going through some health issues at that time. From then till now, I speak to my healer from wherever I am in the world and express what I am feeling. That’s the most transparent space for me as an individual whose life and work is in public glare. It has helped me understand what I am feeling, spell it out and follow what I want to do in most situations.
It’s not about what anyone else wants, but what you want. It’s about choosing that. Doing that has helped me be authentic, live the life I want. Also, that is a gift from my parents to my sister and me - they have allowed us the space to be who we want to be. The fact that I am a woman of a certain size or maybe someone who does not necessarily possess certain skills that are thought of as prerequisites didn’t stop me from wanting to do things my way. I feel most women feel this very restlessness, this unwillingness to settle, and it’s this what is happening in the world around us that has found its way into films because it always does.
Is that why the women, especially the mothers that you have played on screen, have seldom followed a rule book or settled for the shorter end of the stick?
In 2015, during a panel discussion, I remember talking about the change we need to see in cinema, and one of the things I spoke strongly against was the glorification of the sacrificial mother. I have always disliked the idea. Maybe the universe heard me that day. The films that came my way in the subsequent years, including the ones where I play a mother, like in Shakuntala Devi and Mission Mangal, had me essaying characters who wanted things for themselves; they had flaws, and they were thinking, feeling women. Mind you, that did not make them lesser mothers. We see women like that around us all the time. They have been punished and judged for having feelings, desires, which didn’t revolve around others and for not putting themselves behind everyone else. But it’s these women who have inspired other women to make choices irrespective of the repercussions. I remember everyone that I spoke to told me how Shakuntala Devi wanted the most out of life. The point where she says, ‘Agar main amazing ho sakti hoon, to main normal kyun banoon?’ sums it up.
We often set unreal standards for women to meet in every walk of life. Do you think cinema can steer a conversation on accepting women as individuals before being identified by their professions and relationships?
Cinema is already trying to bring about a change in the way we perceive women around us through stories and characters. We see and worship the goddess in so many forms. What we also need to realise is that the goddess is you and me. She is not an otherworldly creature who is perfect. For instance, Maa Kaali symbolises the angry side of the woman, the kind that can wreak havoc. Nothing can really calm her rage when she’s pushed to the brink. But do we let women in real life express their anger amply? The purpose of our mythological and religious scriptures is also to make us understand human behaviour. I think Mahabharata is the most in-depth study of human behaviour and how nothing is right or wrong. It’s about how you see things. Today, we need to look into the nuances and subtle messages that these books actually hold for us. We need to go past our limited views of things. When a woman channels her inner goddess, she leaves no option for the world, but to accept her for who she is. We have to remember that the goddess is not outside; she is within each woman around you, and more importantly, within you.
Love at first sight has happened to me too during Navratri-Daisy Shah
8:09 AM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; October 12, 2021)
She may be a celebrity today but given a chance, Daisy Shah would love to spend hours dancing to garba and dandiya beats even now. The festival holds a special place in her heart, and she tells us why in a candid chat. Excerpts:
How would you celebrate Navratri before you got into acting?
Since the last five years, I have been working during Navratri. But before that, I always made sure that I celebrated the festival with a lot of gusto. My friends and I would plan our clothes for each night weeks in advance. When I was younger, I used to go to this ground near my house where they would hold competitions every night. I used to participate in those and would be very excited about winning the prize for playing the best garba and dressing up well. I was very competitive and used to enjoy looking my best all nine days of Navratri.
Tell us about your Navratri fashion essentials...
Ghagra choli is my go-to outfit for Navratri. But as there are nine outfits to plan, some days I would wear an Indo-western outfit. I always wore traditional jewellery to keep the look authentic.
What is your suggestion to those who have two left feet but want to enjoy the garba?
I would say one should experience it all. Visit a pandal and enjoy the vibe there. If you want to dance, just go ahead. Even if you don’t dance, you can enjoy watching others. It's a great experience.
Do you still look forward to Navratri every year?
Absolutely. I always look forward to Navratri every year. I like to connect with my friends, and whenever possible, we get together and have fun. Another thing that I still look forward to is going to the food stalls and binge-eating after playing garba for hours.
What’s that one memory of Navratri that has stayed with you?
When I was around 10 years old, I didn't really understand this festival. I used to wonder why people were dancing in circles and my mother used to push me and make me join them. I was clueless as to how to follow their steps. But that’s how I learnt garba and I feel all of us would have learnt it the same way.
Navratri is a festival where one can make new friends too. Have you had any such interactions in the past?
I always had a group of friends to play garba with, and mostly, I would be with them. Yes, love at first sight, too, has happened with a random guy I saw there (smiles). And the next day, that guy wasn't even there at the pandal to play garba! So, that love at first sight lasted just for a day (laughs!).
Check out Rani Mukerji's no-nonsense look in this new still from Mardaani 2
8:11 AM
DNA (September 30, 2019)
Rani Mukerji is all set to reprise her role as the fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani 2, a sequel to her hit crime drama Mardaani (2014). While in the first one she took on the kingpin of a child trafficking racket, in its sequel, she will fight a menacing villain who commits crimes against women.
“Rani as Shivani will be seen in a massive showdown with a 21-year-old villain, who is an embodiment of pure evil. He is a dangerous criminal who targets women,” avers director Gopi Puthran.
A video showing glimpses of the case and the reminder of the December release date will be unveiled during the ongoing festival of Navratri today. Says Rani, “The film will see a female cop fighting an evil person to end crimes against women. As we all know, Navratri stands for the victory of good over evil all over India. Whether it is Goddess Durga defeating the demon Mahishasura or Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, Navratri’s significance is key to this asset launch. So, we decided to start the journey of Mardaani 2 on this auspicious occasion.”
RSS asks 7,000 doctors to stop prescribing medicines by the pharma firm that manufactures condom featuring Sunny Leone's ad
8:10 AM
Objecting to the controversial ad connecting Navratri with ‘play safe’ message, RSS-run National Medicos Organisation asks 7,000 affiliated docs to stop prescribing medicines by the pharma firm
Vishal Patadiya (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 21, 2017)
Furious over a Navratri-themed condom hoarding featuring Sunny Leone, doctors affiliated to right-wing organisations have been asked to impose a blanket ban on the pharma company manufacturing the contraceptive. The hoardings with the message ‘Aa Navratriey Ramo, Parantu Prem Thhi’ were aimed at encouraging youths to use condoms manufactured by Mankind Pharma.
However, it has pressed all the wrong buttons of the right-wing groups with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Vishwa Hindu Parishad raising strong objections against the ‘asanskari’ ad. National Medicos Organisation, which is affiliated to the RSS, has called for a boycott of Mankind Pharma’s medicines and other products till the issue is resolved. NMO’s Gujarat chapter president has also put up a notice at his hospital, asking medical representatives from the company to refrain from meeting the hospital management. NMO chief Dr Prakash Kurmi, who runs a hospital in Maninagar, said: “NMO has also appealed to its 2,000 life members and 5,000 other affiliated doctors not to prescribe the medicines of Mankind Pharma.” He added, “We are not happy with the company as they have betrayed people who keep them in the business. The company should not have hurt their sentiments. I have stopped prescribing Mankind’s medicines to my patients. I have also put up a notice at the hospital asking medical representatives from the company to stop visiting the management.”
Kurmi said that the company manufactures affordable medicines meant for all therapeutic areas, be it gynaecology, dermatology or paediatrics. “Their medicines are economical and their field officers share a good relationship with the doctors. But this time, they have crossed the limit by putting up hoardings featuring Sunny Leone, dandiya and a double-entendre. Such obscenity hurts our religious sentiments.”
Dr Vasant Patel, who owns a private hospital in Vastral, said: “The message in the hoarding was very clear that condoms should be used during Navratri. I think legal action must be initiated against this company. I also prescribe drugs of the pharma firm, but this is not done. If a medical representative from the firm turns up here, I will seek an explanation from him.”
Dr Manubhai Patel, NMO’s national president, said: “This is to instigate us by hurting our religious sentiments. If you put up condom ads to address HIV, it makes sense. But when you tell people to use them during Navratri, you are trying to attack the character of the festival. Why should you do that? This cannot be tolerated.” RSS Gujarat spokesperson Vijay Thakar said: “Mankind pharma company has deliberately put up hoardings sending out obscene messages across the State. I strongly condemn it. All the hoardings must be pulled down and action taken against those responsible so that such behaviour is not repeated.”
He added, “Navratri is a festival that worships the many forms of Goddess Amba. In the past, too, attempts were made to tarnish Navratri and other Hindu festivals. People behind such acts must be exposed.”
Hemendra Trivedi, North-Gujarat Media Convener of the VHP said that the poster sent out a message that “Navratri was not a festival of worship but a festival of sex”. “A company must think twice before coming out with such posters. Every time, it is the Hindu religion that is targeted. We may initiate legal action if the company does not take necessary action against those responsible,” Trivedi said.
Meanwhile, Manforce Condoms management and Sunny Leone have issued a joint statement following the controversy. “Navratra Hoardings Campaign was not meant to hurt anyone’s sentiments and was immediately withdrawn. We deeply regret any such incident,” the statement reads. The hoarding has been pulled down from Surat and Vadodara following complaints.
Tentative title of Salman Khan's brother-in-law Aayush Sharma's debut film is Navratri?
7:48 AM
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 9, 2017)
Several star kids are making their acting debut in the next year. One guy who stands apart is Aayush Sharma, as he is not a star son but the son-in-law of the Khan-daan.
His film will be launched by brother-in-law Salman Khan. Initially, Aayush was supposed to star in Raat Baaki with two other actresses, including Mouni Roy. But like After Hrs reported, that film has been put on hold. Says a source, “The team began looking for a fresh script for Aayush following financial and creative differences between the production house (Salman Khan Films) and the director Aditya Dhar.”
A romcom!
Now it is learnt that Salman is clear how they want to position and present Aayush. He has given the team the instructions. Says a source, “They want to present him in a commercial film that appeals to a larger target audience. The film they have now selected is a romcom that will cater to the youth as well as the family audiences. It should roll by year-end.”
Tentative title
The film also has a tentative title. Reveals our insider, “The movie is called Navratri for now because the script has a connection with the festival. But that isn’t the final title. It might change if Salman doesn’t approve of it. They are still scouting for better titles.”
New heroine!
Aayush won’t be paired opposite an established actress like it was originally planned. “The team is on the hunt for a pretty and talented newcomer to be cast opposite Aayush. If they don’t find the right actress for casting, they will look at someone who’s already acted in a few films. But it will mostly be someone from the younger lot,” adds our source.
Director undecided
Salman is also yet to lock the director to helm the project. “Salman is in Abu Dhabi for a 40-day schedule for Tiger Zinda Hai. Once he’s back, he will decide which director to approach to direct the film. After the fiasco with the previous director, they want someone, who will be more comfortable to work with, rather than having ego tussles.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)