Kamya Panjabi: Ganesh Chaturthi is a time when my home becomes like a temple

MUMBAI: Ganesh Utsav is a major festival in Maharashtra, filled with joy, music, decorations, and the sound of aarti. The festival’s spirit of unity and devotion is what makes it special. Kamya Panjabi, who stars as Mohini in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya, shared how she celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi. 

Kamya, who has been welcoming Bappa for more than 35 years, opened up about her love and devotion, saying, “During Ganesh Chaturthi, my home turns into a temple with colorful decorations and a special energy. We dress in fresh clothes, enjoy various sweets, and my mom makes prasad. She takes care of everything, from the food to the invitations. I love dressing in traditional Maharashtrian attire, including Nath (nose rings) and Veni (flower garlands). Even though I’m busy with work, I make sure to join the celebrations. Bringing Gauri Ganpati home is always exciting, and we look forward to the joy and blessings Bappa brings each year.” 

The Ishq Jabariya actress further added, “For me, Ganpati Bappa is everything. I don’t need to ask for anything when He’s with us; just seeing Him makes all my worries go away. I always choose an eco-friendly idol, focusing on features like a big stomach, big ears, and a smiling face. No matter the form, I always feel His presence. The festival’s emotional connection is strong, especially when Bappa has to leave, knowing He will return next year. That’s the magic of Ganesh Chaturthi—it fills our hearts with love, hope, and peace.” 

Ishq Jabariya, airing on Sun Neo, is a romantic drama about Gulki, a young woman with dreams of becoming an air hostess despite her cruel stepmother. Her journey is full of twists and may lead her to unexpected love. The show stars Kamya Punjabi, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshya Khurana. 

Tune into Sun Neo to watch Ishq Jabariya, every Monday to Saturday at 7:30 PM.