Veteran actress Himani Shivpuri, currently seen in `Happu Ki Ultan Paltan` spoke to mid-day.com about this year`s Diwali being doubly special as it coincides with her birthday and much more!
What are your plans for Diwali?
During Diwali the Laxmi and Ganesh pooja with the entire family is one tradition that we follow religiously. Apart from that, there`s dressing up in our traditional attire and ethnic wear. I love sarees, and they are the best traditional wear. I never leave any opportunity to wear them. So, Diwali is incomplete without traditional pooja, sweets and dressing up! This year it is a double celebration as my birthday is coming too. However, I do have plans to celebrate it in a very festive way as it is coming with Diwali. Every year on Diwali, I make it a point to clean my house and go shopping and this year I will do a little more shopping (laughs). One precious thing that is always on my shopping list is a silver coin with Goddess Lakshmi imprinted on it and this year will be no exception. I also intend to replace some old furniture, which will be a birthday gift to myself as I was planning it since long. Then after shopping, I will end my day by having dinner with my friends and family. Not a clichéd way of celebration but it`s a special way for me.
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Favourite homemade sweets?
I love eating and enjoying a good meal. Diwali is all about traditional sweets, and I make the most of them. I love the laddoos and kaju katli. I can finish the entire box if not checked (laughs). But that`s what the festivities are all about – binge eating!
Diwali message for your fans
Exchanging gifts and spreading joy is the essence of Diwali and my message to everyone this Diwali is to support small artisans as we have so many diverse and indigenous crafts with many options. So, we make it a point to buy local handicrafts from local artisans every year during festivities. Also, I don`t propagate bursting crackers as it is harmful to our environment and sound of crackers scares animals.
Any special memories of childhood celebrations?
What I loved the most about the festival of lights was lighting the diyas and making rangolis. It used to be full-fledged competition in the neighbourhood. We did not have YouTube for tutorials during those days, and we would practise the design on paper and then get our hands on the final design. It used to be so much fun. The whole week we would meet and greet each other and exchange sweets and dry fruits.
