Family time, luchi & sindoor khela: 'Bengali-style lunch is a Pujo must'

Durga Puja has always been a time of togetherness and nostalgia for Saket Mohta , of the Merlin Group, and his wife Anisha. In a special festive shoot with CT, the couple opened up about the joy of celebrating Pujo as a close-knit family, and the happiness of experiencing the festival anew through the eyes of their son, Sahas.

What’s the first thing you associate with Pujo?
Saket: As kids, the festival was about our Pujo vacation and time away from school. Sometimes we travelled but I liked staying back in the city during the festivities. Now, Pujo is on a grander scale. The festival inspires us to embrace goodness and let go of the negativity we accumulate throughout the year.

Anisha: Coming from Nepal, I was already deeply connected to art and culture, but I was mesmerised by the grandeur and creativity of Pujo. The experience was a beautiful bridge between two cultures. All my relatives were thrilled for me to experience the festivities in person, and they still love it when we share pictures and videos of Pujo with them.


What are your Pujo plans this year?
Saket: We are very excited to celebrate Pujo with our two-year-old, Sahas. Festivals are not just about the grandeur of the season but also the opportunity to pass on values that matter. We want Sahas to grow up with the courage and resilience that goddess Durga exemplifies.
Anisha: We’ll ensure Sahas is introduced to the essence of Pujo – the customs, and history that form the soul of Bengal. It’s about creating lasting memories while giving Sahas a strong cultural foundation.


‘Pujo means khawa-dawa with family’
Saket: Pujo is as much about people as it is about the goddess. We love the joy of meeting and greeting family and friends during the festive days. We particularly look forward to the hearty family lunch comprising luchi, cholar dal, alur dum and payesh.

Anisha: This is a ritual that we never compromise on. Sitting together over a home-cooked meal, exchanging stories and laughter, is what truly captures the warmth and spirit of Pujo.


I was born and brought up in this city so I deeply identify with Bengali culture and festivals. Pujo is the start of all festivities. I love how the city comes alive
–Saket Mohta


Sindoor khela is my favourite part of the festival. It is such a vibrant ritual, and this year I plan to be a part of it as well
– Anisha Mohta