From Kolkata’s bustling pandals to quiet celebrations abroad, film stars open up about what Navratri and Durga Puja mean to them

xAdivi Sesh

This is my parents’ first full-fledged Navratri in India, without anyone being sick and without COVID, after 30 years! Pujas every morning and night, house beautifully decorated, and seeing my mom smile — it’s a joy to witness and I’m partaking whenever I’m not shooting.”

Raakhee Gulzar:

Durga Puja was a major part of my childhood in Kolkata. We would get excited weeks in advance. New clothes were a must — and we all wanted the same fabric and patterns. The joy was in the anticipation. Today, however, while trying to pray and seek Devi Maa’s blessings, there are always people taking pictures on their phones. That simple joy of enjoying the festivi

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