Sanjana Sanghi: For me, Diwali is now split between Delhi and Mumbai

Like most of us, Sanjana Sanghi loves the festive season of Diwali. From Diwali ki safai and dressing up to indulging in mithai and exploring local markets, the actress tells us everything she loves about the festival. “Diwali has now turned into an entire season rather than being a two or three-day affair. For all of us, the moment Navratri ends, Diwali parties and events begin, and it is already a very bustling season. There’s a bit of dressing-up exhaustion that sets in, but the excitement of seeing all the people you love, getting to eat so much food, playing cards and lighting up your home is so special. For me, Diwali is now split between Delhi and Mumbai. I always make it a point to be with my family back in Delhi on the day of Diwali. But since Mumbai is the home I’ve built for myself over the last eight or nine years, I spend all the days leading up to Diwali with my friends here. That mix is so special,” says the actress.


‘I remember Diwali as a season of festivals’
Growing up, one of Sanjana’s favourite things about Diwali was how Delhi seemed to smell different during the festive season. “There’s the smell of flowers in the air that sets in, and you know Diwali is coming. There’s a certain nip in the air towards the evenings, when you know it’s time to get your silks and velvets out. The lights start going up across the city, and every home is one you’re welcomed into. That’s what Diwali was like for me growing up. I remember it as a season of festivals, not just a day, and that was the most beautiful part. What I also love is how it brings the older generation and youngsters together. We socialise among ourselves, but Diwali is one time when everyone sits around a table, laughing, eating, playing cards and dancing. I think that’s really the joy of community.”

‘The Diwali routine I loved most was Diwali ki safai’
While most of us tend to get tired of cleaning and redecorating, Sanjana particularly loves that part of the festive routine. “The Diwali routine I loved most was Diwali ki safai. Our parents would put my brother and me to work, and the four of us would divide the duties. I was always excited to take care of the decor department, while my brother and father would take care of the food and beverage department. I think that’s been my favourite memory. I also love the Diwali pujas. I love going to my dad’s office, visiting my nana’s house and performing the puja at home. My year feels incomplete without these rituals, which is why I try to make it back in time to keep those traditions alive.”


Even if with friends, make sure that you celebrate Diwali: Sanjana’s message
Sharing a heartfelt message with her fans, Sanjana says, “I know we’re all going through our respective challenges, and life keeps throwing difficult moments at us. Let’s give ourselves permission to simply bask in the joy of togetherness, food and the celebration of our culture over these few days. God knows we need it! It will give us energy for the rest of the year and help us take on whatever problems come our way with positivity, strength and exuberance. If you’re alone in college or working in a city away from home, remember that we’ve all been there. You’re not alone in this. Diwali is a feeling. Even if you celebrate the festival with just three friends, make sure you do that.”