Ganesh Chaturthi, the vibrant festival celebrating Lord Ganesha—the harbinger of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles—brings an aura of hope, devotion, and festive joy across the country. Known for his compelling roles and presently seen in Star Plus’ Udne Ki Aasha and Alright! TV’s popular series Dil Se Deewangi Tak, actor Kripp Kapur Suri reflects on his personal bond with Bappa, sharing how the festival has evolved for him over the years.
Growing up in Delhi, Ganpati celebrations were intimate family affairs centred on quiet faith, whereas living in Mumbai transformed his experience of the festival. “Growing up in Delhi, Ganpati at home was simple yet special—bringing Bappa home, gathering for family aartis, making prasad, and holding quiet devotion in our hearts. In Mumbai, the scale shifts entirely; the whole city breathes Bappa. Even with demanding shoot schedules, I take a day off, wear a kurta, and go pandal-hopping. The innocent joy of childhood has grown into a deep sense of belonging to this city.”
While his family continues the tradition of bringing an idol home, Kripp finds special joy in visiting friends and local pandals. “My family continues to bring Bappa home, but with shoots and travel, my family anchors the home rituals while I visit friends and pandals across Mumbai. I love that shared happiness—Bappa truly lives in those moments. Visiting people makes me feel like an extended part of their family celebrations.”
Reflecting on his journey as an actor, Kripp shares a pivotal moment when visiting the iconic Siddhivinayak Temple taught him resilience during a career lull. “My journey had its rough patches, including a year without work where self-doubt crept in. Sitting in Siddhivinayak Temple, watching people pray with absolute faith, I asked Bappa not for instant work, but for patience. That phase taught me that as Vighnaharta, Bappa doesn’t always erase obstacles instantly; he grants you the fortitude to walk through them.”
The energetic, emotional atmosphere of a Visarjan procession offers him profound artistic and life insights. “Visarjan may look chaotic from the outside, but it carries deep emotion—people dance to drumbeats while shedding tears as Bappa departs. It taught me detachment and the truth that joy and goodbyes exist together. As an actor, that lesson resonates deeply, because every character and show eventually faces its own visarjan.”
Beyond the grandeur and festivities, Ganesh Chaturthi remains a grounding, reflective period for Kripp. “Beyond the dhol, decorations, and modaks, Ganesh Chaturthi is a reminder of fresh starts. No matter what happened previously, Bappa gives you the chance to begin again with a clean heart. In my quiet two-minute prayer, I don’t just ask for success—I thank him for keeping me grounded and my family healthy.”
