Shiwani Chakraborty is making her mark in the television industry with her role as Meeta Kothari in Star Plus and Rajan Shahi’s popular show Anupamaa. The actress has won over the viewers with her character, and while her professional life continues to move forward, she believes some things in life should never change. As Diwali approaches, Shiwani spilt the beans on her celebrations, childhood memories, faith and the importance of being positive in life.
Talking about whether her definition of a successful Diwali has changed with her career, the Anupamaa actress said, “I believe every festival, whether it is Diwali, Durga Puja, Kali Puja or Lakshmi Puja, brings out the feeling of being truly Indian. I don’t think the way you celebrate festivals should change with your career or success. It’s not that you celebrate differently when you are successful or stop celebrating when things are not going well. What matters most is being happy and content with whatever God has given you.”
She further explained that even if work keeps her away from home on Diwali, she would consider it a blessing. “I believe in going with the flow. You never know; you might have to travel or work on Diwali. In that situation, I would feel that Lakshmi Maa has blessed me with work, and that itself is my worship and my way of celebrating Diwali,” she added.
Being a Bengali, Shiwani also has a special connection with Kali Puja. “Nothing has really changed in my life after becoming a recognised face, and I have never felt the need to change the way I celebrate festivals. I have never planned my celebrations around my popularity or success. I am Bengali, so I celebrate Kali Puja by visiting a Kali temple near my home,” she shared.
Shiwani recalled her childhood when she used to visit the oldest Kali Bari in her hometown with her parents and family members for midnight puja and havan. She still follows the tradition whenever she gets an opportunity to visit home. She also believes Diwali is not just about wealth, gold or silver but about praying for good health and remembering Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda.
“Diwali and Dussehra symbolise the victory of good over evil. For me, that also means getting rid of the negativity within ourselves. I want to let go of all negative thoughts, insecurities and anything that holds me back from being a better person. I want to remain positive and have the confidence to face every situation in life,” Shiwani concluded.
