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Nivedita Basu (VP Content and Business Alliance, Atrangii TV and OTT) says that Ganesh Chaturthi has always been special for her. She says that they have always celebrated this festival in her family with much fervour and devotion.
“I believe Ganeshji is akin to our primary deity, especially for those who will reside in Mumbai for an extended period due to Siddhivinayak and his title as Vigna Hartha. I don’t think there is a single individual in the world who won’t encounter obstacles (Vigna) and not turn to Lord Ganpati. Therefore, I consider bringing Ganpati into our lives the most auspicious and joyous occasion,” she says.
She adds,
“For over two decades, Ganesh Chaturthi has been celebrated at our in-laws’ house. They have faithfully observed this tradition for 25 years. It’s a simple, homely affair lasting a day and a half. We stay there from the moment Ganpati arrives until it departs. We rarely venture out because it’s believed that Ganpati should never be left alone. It’s almost like hosting a guest, a baby guest at that. So, it’s a joyful experience filled with aarti and offering bhog. I absolutely adore Ganpati.”
Talking about bringing Ganpati home, she says,
“Having Ganpati at both our in-laws’ and parents’ houses feels like having Ganpati at home. We’ve maintained this tradition for 25 years, and now that we have children, we intend to continue it. Our daughters love it there, so it’s a wonderful feeling. As I mentioned earlier, it’s not a grand, extravagant affair. We handle everything ourselves, from buying flowers to getting sweets, arranging lighting, and preparing food. It’s a very intimate affair involving family members.”
She adds,
“For me, attending the 1 1/2-day Ganpati celebrations has been nearly impossible, except for visiting Sharad Malhotra and Vipul. Ekta’s Ganpati celebration has been a yearly ritual for years, and I always make it a point to go. Similarly, I never miss visiting Arjun Bijlani’s place every year. I have a select few friends I visit, and if I can’t be there in person, I send my best wishes. Being virtually present is like being there in spirit. So, I wish everyone a joyful Ganesh Chaturthi.”
Talking about what she wants this year, she says,
“For me, whether it’s Ganpati or a trip to Banaras, it has always been about wishing for good health and positive thoughts first, with everything else following suit. This year, my prayer remains the same for my family, parents, children, husband, and friends. Money, fame, and recognition come later, but without good health and positive thoughts, one can’t achieve much. That’s my constant prayer whenever I sit before any deity, and as I mentioned, I hope Ganpati removes all obstacles (Vighnas) and blesses us with positive thoughts.”
