Sonali Bendre Behl on Ganpati festivities...

It’s been five years since Sonali Bendre started bringing home a Ganpati idol and this year, it was at the behest of her son Ranvir that she continued with the tradition. However, it is a private celebration just with the family. “It is personal and that is why more beautiful. We celebrate it the Maharashtrian way where-in one doesn’t send out invitations and whoever wants to seek the Lord’s blessings comes visiting,” says Sonali.

Special murti
The actress gets her idol from special makers, who create an exact replica of the Dagdusheth Ganpati of Pune. “The idol sculptors are in Vile Parle and they are extremely talented. This year, my husband (Goldie Behl) wanted the murti to be in particular sindoori colour and they made it perfectly. Not only was the idol made of clay, even the colours used were organic,” shares Sonali.
Food tales
For the actress, the best part of the festival is gorging on modaks. “Especially ukadiche modak, the way Maharashrians make,” she says. 

Smile to your face 
Sonali adds, “Bappa is all about ushering in happiness. No matter how tired you feel, Bappa coming home always brings a smile to your face and his going leaves you a little sad.”