For Zee TV’s Tumm Se Tumm Tak actor Angad Hasija, Ganesh Chaturthi has become an integral part of his Mumbai experience. Ever since he moved to the city to pursue acting, the festival has given him a chance to experience the unique energy and spirit of Mumbai. From the beautifully decorated pandals to the devotion and enthusiasm seen across the city, Angad enjoys being part of the celebrations every year.
“Ganpati is such a beautiful festival, and what I enjoy most is visiting different pandals and going to my friends’ homes where they have brought Bappa. I love being part of the aarti, meeting people and simply soaking in the festive atmosphere. There is so much positivity everywhere. Mumbai during Ganesh Chaturthi has a completely different energy, and I really look forward to experiencing it every year,” says Angad.
Lord Ganesha is known as Vighnaharta, and Angad believes that his biggest lesson is to have faith while continuing to work towards one’s goals. “For me, Bappa teaches us to stay positive and not lose faith when things don’t go according to plan. There will always be obstacles in life and in a profession like acting, but you have to keep working, keep believing in yourself and move ahead. I think that is something I constantly try to follow,” he shares.
While Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations have become grander and more elaborate, Angad feels that the essence of the festival should always remain intact. “There is nothing wrong with celebrating on a bigger scale, but we should never lose the real meaning behind it. The decorations and festivities are beautiful, but at the heart of it, Ganpati is about faith, devotion, gratitude and bringing people together. As long as we remember that, the spirit of the festival will remain alive,” he says.
This year, Angad is not bringing Bappa home but plans to make the most of the festivities by visiting friends and pandals. “I am not getting Ganpati at home this year, but I absolutely love visiting friends who keep Bappa. I also enjoy going to different pandals whenever I get the time. It is a beautiful way of being part of the celebration and feeling that positive energy around you,” he says.
And no Ganesh Chaturthi celebration is complete without festive food. “I definitely enjoy modaks. They are a must during Ganpati. Apart from that, I love having the food prepared at friends’ homes because there is something very special about eating together during a festival,” Angad shares.
As he seeks Bappa’s blessings this year, Angad has a simple wish. “My biggest wish is for Bappa to keep my family, friends and everyone around me healthy and happy. Personally, I hope for more good work, meaningful opportunities and the strength to keep growing as an actor. I just want Bappa’s blessings to always be with us,” he concludes.
