Navratri, the nine-day festival celebrating the power of Maa Durga and the victory of good over evil, began on October 3. While millions across India participate in this vibrant festival, Bollywood and TV celebrities are also celebrating it in their unique ways. Many stars have shared their traditions and thoughts, offering a glimpse into how they experience this important festival.
From performing special rituals to participating in Garba nights, celebrities bring their own sense of devotion and festivity to Navratri. Here’s how some well-known names are celebrating this year.
Mukti Mohan: Continuing a Family Tradition
For actress and dancer Mukti Mohan, Navratri is deeply rooted in her family traditions. Although her busy schedule often keeps her from celebrating the festival the way she used to, Mukti makes it a point to follow a special tradition started by her mother.
“My mother recites stories about the nine forms of Maa Durga throughout the festival,” Mukti shares. “For me, Navratri symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Even when I’m working, I still participate in Kanjika Puja on Ashtami. It’s a tradition where we feed girls and offer them toys and books.”
While she occasionally fasts during Navratri, Mukti admits she doesn’t observe a fast on Ashtami. “My mother makes the most delicious halwa, sabzi, and puri, which I cannot resist,” she says, laughing.
Despite her faith, Mukti feels that real-life challenges, such as the lack of justice for women and children, have weakened her belief in the concept of good triumphing over evil. Still, she finds peace in worshipping Maa Durga and hopes for positive change.
Monalisa: Durga Puja After Three Years
Actress Monalisa, known for her work in Bhojpuri films, is particularly excited for Navratri this year because she’s heading to Kolkata for Durga Puja after three years.
“As a Bengali, Durga Puja holds special significance for me,” Monalisa says. “At the same time, I also celebrate Navratri with my husband, Vikrant Singh Rajput, who is not Bengali. So, I get to enjoy both cultures.”
Monalisa has always abstained from eating non-vegetarian food during the nine days of Navratri. “But in Kolkata, it’s tradition to offer fish to the Mother Goddess on Ashtami,” she explains.
Monalisa’s devotion to Maa Durga runs deep. She credits the goddess for helping her mother recover from a serious kidney condition, which included a transplant and complications from Covid-19. “There was a time when we were financially struggling, and the stress was overwhelming. But by the grace of Mata Rani, my mother is healthy now.”
Sanand Verma: Finding Peace in Worship
Actor Sanand Verma, known for his comic roles, takes a more spiritual approach to Navratri. For him, the festival is a time to connect with Goddess Durga on a deeper level.
“Navratri fills me with immense peace and happiness,” Sanand shares. “It’s a time to come together and celebrate love and unity. I don’t follow any strict rituals, but I make sure to worship the goddess during these nine days.”
The festive energy that surrounds Navratri is what Sanand finds most extraordinary. “It’s a celebration of the victory of good over evil, and I feel blessed to be part of it,” he says.
Delnaaz Irani: The Mantra of Life
For actress Delnaaz Irani, the victory of good over evil isn’t just a theme of Navratri—it’s her life mantra.
“I’ve learned the importance of forgiveness over the past few years,” Delnaaz says. “Navratri is a special time for me. Since moving to a new home, the festival has taken on even more meaning. There’s a huge celebration in our housing society, with Garba nights, fun fairs, and Mata Ki Chowki.”
Despite her busy schedule, Delnaaz always makes time for Navratri. “After a long day of shooting, I make sure to enjoy at least an hour of the festival,” she says. “It’s a beautiful process of connecting with others and celebrating unity in diversity.”
Monica Singh: A Love for Garba
Actress Monica Singh used to follow all the fasts and rituals of Navratri. However, health issues have kept her from fasting in recent years. Despite this, she still looks forward to the festival each year, especially the Garba nights.
“There’s something magical about Garba,” Monica says. “The energy, the colors, the music—it’s all so exciting. Even though I can’t fast or perform rituals anymore, I still feel deeply connected to the festival.”
For Monica, Navratri is a celebration of female strength and empowerment. “The festival reminds me of how powerful we are as women,” she says. “It’s a time to strengthen our faith and celebrate the victory of good over evil.”
Madalsa Sharma: Dancing Through Navratri
For actress Madalsa Sharma, Navratri is all about joy and celebration. She fondly recalls an experience she had in Gujarat during the festival, where she danced all night long at a Garba event.
“I’ll never forget that night,” Madalsa says. “The energy, the music, and the love were incredible. Navratri inspires us to remove negativity from our lives and reminds us of the power we hold as women.”
Madalsa enjoys the festive atmosphere during Navratri, from visiting pandals to participating in colorful celebrations. “These nine days are a time for devotion, joy, and healthy living,” she says.
