Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur across Mumbai, and for actor Amal Sehrawat, who is known for his work in Sarkar 3, Satya 2, Choti Sarrdaarni, and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, the festival has taken on an even more special meaning after living in the city. Speaking about what the festival means to him today, Amal shares that it is a celebration rooted in faith, positivity, and new beginnings.
“For me, Ganesh Chaturthi is about faith, positivity and new beginnings. Having lived in Mumbai, I’ve experienced the festival in a completely different way. The energy here is incredible. Ganpati truly feels like the heartbeat of the city. What has changed for me is that I’ve started appreciating not just the celebration, but the sense of togetherness and devotion behind it,” he says.
While the scale of the celebrations in Mumbai is something Amal deeply appreciates, he continues to hold on to the traditions that have been a part of his life since childhood. For him, welcoming Bappa with his family remains particularly meaningful.
“The tradition I cherish most is welcoming Bappa with family, offering prayers and seeking His blessings before beginning anything important. It reminds me that no matter how much life changes, some traditions keep you connected to your roots and family,” Amal shares.
Lord Ganesha is also revered as Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles, and Amal believes there is a valuable lesson in that aspect of Bappa’s identity. He says the deity inspires him to remain grounded and continue moving forward even when faced with challenges. “Bappa teaches me to stay calm, grounded and keep moving forward. Life will always have obstacles, but the key is not to let them overpower your faith or determination. I believe in doing my best, staying positive and leaving the rest to Bappa,” he says.
With festivals becoming increasingly grand and commercialised, Amal feels that it is important not to lose sight of the devotion at the heart of Ganesh Chaturthi. According to him, the grandeur should complement the spirit of the festival rather than overshadow it. “I think both things exist. The grandeur is beautiful and it brings people together, but we should never allow the celebration to overshadow the devotion. For me, the real essence of Ganesh Chaturthi is faith, family, community and gratitude. The decorations and festivities should add to that spirit, not replace it,” he says.
Even when he does not have Bappa at home, Amal makes it a point to visit friends and family who welcome Ganpati. He enjoys the opportunity to be part of the festivities and believes that one of the most beautiful aspects of the festival is how it brings people closer. “I absolutely love visiting friends and family who bring Bappa home. One of the best things about Ganesh Chaturthi is that Bappa brings everyone together. You get to visit people, share prasad, enjoy the celebrations and, most importantly, seek Bappa’s blessings,” he says.
And when it comes to the festive food, there is one favourite that Amal simply cannot resist — modaks. “Modaks, without a doubt! They are synonymous with Ganpati for me. I also love the whole festive spread and the prasad because food during festivals has a different kind of warmth — it’s always about sharing and enjoying it together,” he adds.
As he seeks Bappa’s blessings this year, Amal’s wish is centred around the well-being of his loved ones, along with growth and wisdom in his professional journey. “My biggest wish is for Bappa to bless my family and loved ones with good health, happiness and peace. And professionally, I hope he opens the right doors and gives me the strength and wisdom to make the most of every opportunity. Bas Bappa ka haath sar par bana rahe. Ganpati Bappa Morya!” he concludes.
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