Shivani Gosain reflects on her deep-rooted attachment to Ganesh Chaturthi, inspired by her desire to carry out her late mother’s wishes and her passion for celebrating in an environmentally responsible way.
Actress Shivani Gosain, last seen in Rishton Se Bandhi Gauri, recently shared her heartfelt connection with Ganesh Chaturthi and how her move to Mumbai transformed her experience of the festival.
Ganpati Celebrations Weren’t Common There Back Then
Her connection to the festival runs deep, shaped by nostalgic days spent in Delhi as a child and heartfelt experiences later in Mumbai.
“Growing up in Delhi, I mostly witnessed Kali Puja and Durga Puja. Ganpati celebrations weren’t common there back then. It was only after shifting to Mumbai that I truly experienced the grandeur of Ganesh Chaturthi. The devotion, the energy, the atmosphere, it feels like a complete festive season,” she shares.
Shivani Gosain recalls bringing Ganpati home once, fulfilling her late mother’s wish.
She recalls, “When my parents bought a home in Mumbai in 2012, my mother felt we too should welcome Bappa. I was hesitant about the customs, but a friend advised me to bring Him with a pure heart. I still remember bringing home a beautiful, childlike idol from Gokuldham. For three and a half days, I stayed with Him, decorated everything, and cherished every moment. That one time remains very special to me.”
While she hasn’t been able to bring Ganpati home again, the actress loves visiting friends during the festival.
“The vibe in Mumbai is unmatched. The whole city lights up with excitement as people step out in cultural attire, creating a vibrant and lively ambiance all around. One of my favorite parts is the food, whether it’s modaks, puri-bhaji, or puran poli, I can’t get enough!” Shivani Gosain says.
My Prayers To Bappa Are Many, But Very Personal
Still, Shivani Gosain confesses there’s one part of the celebration that unsettles her. She says, “Visarjan always saddens me. To see idols broken or discarded later feels disrespectful. I strongly feel eco-friendly practices should be made compulsory.
Clay idols that dissolve, or even metal idols worshipped every year, are much better options. The younger generation is more aware now, even making idols at home that can turn into plants after immersion, which is a beautiful idea.”
The actress also hopes for stricter noise-control rules during processions. She notes, “Loud, random songs and unnecessary noise take away from the devotion. Festivals should uplift, not disturb.”
For Shivani Gosain, Ganesh Chaturthi remains a festival of joy and positivity. “It changes the whole vibe of the city. My prayers to Bappa are many, but very personal,” she concludes with a smile.
