It’s a time to indulge: Rani Mukerji

Actress Rani Mukerji can’t wait for Durga puja to begin. She plans to go all out and indulge during the family celebration of Durga puja.

“Puja is a time when I immerse myself completely in the festivities. I’m yearning to have the yummy khuchudi (khichdi), tomato chutney and sweets that’s prepared during the festivity every year. I plan to go traditional with my new Lalpad saree (the traditional Bengali red-bordered saree) for the puja,” says the actor.

The puja of the Mukerji family (organised by The North Bombay Sarbojonin Durga Puja Charitable Trust in association with DNA) is one of the most popular pandals in the city, and is in its 63rd year. This year, informs the actor, the theme for the pandal is based on the works of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

“Since it is the 150th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, the whole decor of the pandal will be based on his works and paintings as a tribute to the great poet. We have hired a lot of artisans from Bengal who’ll replicate the traditional form of puja area,” says the star.

Rani rues the fact that Durga puja has now become a huge commercial affair.  “I remember it used to be a small family affair. The yesteryear stars of Bollywood used to come on their own and perform at the evening cultural function. Today, it has become a commercial affair with big budgets and lakhs of people trooping in every day for the four days.  In a way, it is good as it celebrates the Goddess’ presence, which should get bigger and bigger everyday,” she ends.