As television couples light up screens across the country to celebrate Karwa Chauth, actor Naman Shaw—last seen on Colors TV’s hit show Mangal Lakshmi—is keeping things refreshingly real. Stripped of slow-motion glances and background tracks, the actor opens up about what the festival truly means to him on the occasion of Karwa Chauth, finding love in the little things, and sharing life with a partner who completely gets the hustle of the entertainment industry.

Real Karwa Chauth at home is much less dramatic than what you see on screen! There are no slow-motion glances or background music playing. It’s more about spending time together and making each other feel special. “I think the real beauty of the festival lies in the emotions and the bond you share, rather than the grand gestures.”

With a career in television, having a strong support system at home makes all the difference. Naman shares a deep appreciation for his wife, Nehaa Mishra, who understands the demands of the profession firsthand. “Thankfully, my partner is also from the same industry. Nehaa is a producer and mostly works behind the camera, so she understands this world and the demands of my profession. There’s a lovely sense of understanding between us, and jealousy has never really been an issue.”

I feel the most beautiful gesture is when someone genuinely makes an effort to make you feel loved and special.

“The romance on screen is part of the story we’re telling, but what we share at home is our own story, and that’s far more personal and meaningful to me. At the end of the day, it’s the trust, comfort, and understanding we have with each other that matter the most,” he adds.

When it comes to celebrating and showing love, material price tags take a back seat. For Naman, the most precious moments are born out of genuine effort and shared laughter. “For me, it’s never really about whether a gift is expensive or simple, or whether it’s the best or the worst. It’s always about the thought and the emotion behind it. I feel the most beautiful gesture is when someone genuinely makes an effort to make you feel loved and special.”

“Sometimes, just being together, spending a little quality time with each other, sharing a few laughs, or doing something small that brings a smile to your partner’s face can mean so much more than any material gift. I think, over time, you realise that it’s these little moments and the comfort of having each other that truly matter.”

Growing up, Karwa Chauth wasn’t a staple in Naman’s household. Originally from Kolkata and born into a UPite family, the festival entered his life only after moving to Mumbai, making North Indian friends, and getting married. Yet he harbours a vivid dream of experiencing it someday. “If there’s one way I’d really love to celebrate Karwa Chauth, it would be back in Kolkata with my joint family. We have such a big family, with so many women and cousins, and I can just imagine all of us getting together on the terrace, dressed up, sharing stories, laughing, and celebrating together under the moonlight. There’s something very special about that kind of family togetherness.”

Amidst hectic shoot schedules and continuous deadlines, festivals serve as a much-needed pause button. Summing up his plans this Karwa Chauth, Naman emphasises the importance of slowing down. “The plan is to keep it simple and spend quality time with my family. I think festivals are a beautiful opportunity to slow down amidst our busy schedules and reconnect with the people who matter most. For me, it’s all about enjoying the celebrations, being together, and making some beautiful memories.”