As the sound of drums and cymbals fills the air, Ganpati Bappa's arrival is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm across various corners. The excitement of welcoming Ganpati is palpable among all devotees, from children to the elderly.
In the entertainment industry, too, Ganeshotsav is celebrated with grandeur, and many celebrities share a deep personal connection with this festival, cherishing it with unique traditions and heartfelt memories.
Saurabh Gokhale: A Family Tradition of Handcrafted Devotion
For actor Saurabh Gokhale, Ganeshotsav is more than just a festival—it’s a cherished family tradition. Saurabh's father personally crafts the Ganpati idols for both their home and his aunt’s house.
"Our household Ganpati is eco-friendly, and the celebrations are intimate," he shares. The entire family, along with friends, gathers for the rituals, culminating in the immersion on the second day.
Saurabh fondly recalls his involvement in making idols and decorations. For him, Ganeshotsav is a time when everything feels auspicious, a day that allows a break from his busy schedule to be with family.
"Every year, we try to do something different. I always pray to Bappa for everyone's happiness and well-being."
Anshuman Vichare: Festivals as Family Reunions
Comedian Anshuman Vichare, who does not bring Ganpati home, celebrates the festival at his ancestral place.
"We have about 70-80 family members who come together for Ganeshotsav," he says, highlighting the importance of festivals in bringing families closer. For Anshuman, these celebrations are more than rituals—they are about rekindling bonds and creating memories that transcend generations.
Ankita Lande: A Festival That Feels Like Home
Actress Ankita Lande looks forward to Ganesh Chaturthi every year. "Bappa feels like a friend who comes to stay with us for a few days," she expresses.
Ankita’s most cherished memory is the friendly sibling rivalry over performing the aarti. Now, with her brother in the UK and sister in Canada, Ankita celebrates Ganpati with her parents, reminiscing the times when they would argue over who gets to lead the prayers. "Bappa has given me so much without asking for anything," she adds gratefully.
Tanvi Mundale: The Joy of Preparing for Bappa's Arrival
Coming from Konkan, actress Tanvi Mundale describes the Ganeshotsav in her hometown as a celebration like no other. The preparations begin months in advance, with families visiting workshops to specify how they want their idols crafted, right down to the smallest details.
Tanvi shares that decorating the altar and making other arrangements continues until late at night before Bappa’s arrival, with every effort feeling incomplete until Bappa is finally seated. "There is a unique joy in all of us coming together and preparing for Bappa's arrival," she says.
Kajal Kate: A New Home, A New Tradition
For Kajal Kate, bringing Ganpati home was a tradition that began with her new house. Last year, she welcomed Bappa for the first time and now celebrates the second year with the same Siddhivinayak idol, which will be kept for three years.
Kajal emphasizes the eco-friendly nature of their celebrations and takes pride in doing the decorations herself. With a rich tradition of Ganeshotsav in her maternal family, Kajal fondly remembers the times when all cousins would gather and celebrate with great enthusiasm.
"Now, we continue this tradition at my in-laws’ house. I never ask for anything, but I always tell Bappa that I’m working hard, and I hope he is watching over me."
Ganeshotsav is not just a festival; it's an emotion that ties families, traditions, and memories together. For these artists, the celebration is deeply personal, marked by love, faith, and the joy of shared moments with loved ones.