Sharing her plans, she added, “Gudi ubhaarnyat khoop ananda hoto (it gives me immense joy to hoist the Gudi outside the balcony or a window). A brand new sari is wrapped at the top of a long bamboo. On top of it, neem leaves and sugar garlands are attached along with flowers. This arrangement is capped with a pot (handi or kalash) and hoisted outside in the morning. We do the puja and offer naivedya (food offered to God). Lunch is served on a banana leaf. The Gudi is taken down before sunset. Like each year, this time too I am celebrating the festival with my family at my parents’ house.”
Mrunal says, “We make some noise and gorge on delicious puran polis, which are mandatory in any Maharashtrian household on the occasion. It’s nice to spend Gudi Padwa mornings with the family and take a break from our hectic lives.”
The actress loves her saris, and what’s better than wearing her mother’s saris for the festival? “I am in love with saris, and recently I stumbled upon some of my mom’s lovely saris, so I am wearing her sari this year. And I will be teaming it up with a nath. Getting dressed is another favourite part of the festival. You can give time to yourself and your family and time to dress up.”
Reflecting on the years gone by and how she loves festivals, the Jersey actress added, “I love the concept of festivals. Dressing up, having delicious home-cooked food and getting together with your family… all these things keep us grounded and rooted in our culture. I am glad that I live in a country where we celebrate so many festivals with equal vigour. May Gudi Padwa bring everyone joy, good health and prosperity.Navavarshachya ani Gudi Padwyachya hardik Shubhecha.”
