Actor Rahul Sharma opens up about his deep connection to Ganesh Chaturthi, highlighting the festival’s profound spiritual meaning and the special energy it infuses into the city of Mumbai.
The Entire City Comes Alive During These Days
Rahul Sharma, recently featured in Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, expressed his heartfelt affection and strong bond with Ganesh Chaturthi, describing it as Mumbai’s most lively and spiritually rich celebration.
“The entire city comes alive during these days. The joy, sense of togetherness, and lively atmosphere during the festival are truly one of a kind. Parties can happen anytime, but festivals like these remind us of the importance of our Dharma, our families, and staying connected to our roots,” Rahul Sharma said.
The actor feels that the younger generation must carry forward these traditions. “Even if it’s just for a day or two, it’s important to celebrate and keep these rituals alive. They not only strengthen family bonds but also introduce the new generation to our culture,” he added.
Eco-Friendly Ganpati Is The Change We All Should Embrace
Rahul Sharma also expressed his wish to see the festival celebrated in a more eco-friendly way.
“If it were in my hands, I’d ensure that every idol and decoration is made from materials that dissolve within 30–40 minutes. Seeing Ganpati idols washed up along the shore after visarjan is truly disheartening and takes away from the sanctity of the celebration. Eco-friendly Ganpati is the change we all should embrace,” he said.
Beyond the celebrations, Rahul Sharma shared a heartfelt prayer:
“My only wish from Bappa is to heal this world. People are suffering, fighting for power, destroying each other. Now, more than ever, the world is in desperate need of kindness, solidarity, and harmony among people.”
On a lighter note, the actor admitted that Ganpati also brings out his foodie side.
“Puran poli and besan ke laddus are my favorite! During these days, I don’t diet at all. From chhole bhature to puri bhaji, I enjoy every bit of prasad. Visiting friends’ homes and tasting their special sweets feels like a feast of chhapan bhog,” he laughed.
Rahul, who earlier celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi in his hometown Dausa with rituals like mehendi and homemade sweets, says the Mumbai version has its own charm. “Here, the celebrations stretch for 7, 8, even 11 days, and the city’s energy is simply unmatched. For me, it feels like Diwali comes early,” he signed off.
