Manisha Rani Amazed by Juhu Beach Crowds During Chhath Festival

As the vibrant festival of Chhath Puja draws near, actor Manisha Rani reflects on her meaningful ties to this celebrated occasion. “Chhath Puja holds a special place in my heart,” she expresses. “It transcends being a mere festival; it’s essentially an emotion that resonates deeply with me. Growing up, I was inspired by my family’s commitment to this sacred tradition, particularly my mother’s fervent observance. Every ritual, from early morning ceremonies to offering arghya to the sun, embodies divine energy.” She notes that the tradition has expanded far beyond its origins in Bihar.

“Chhath Puja was once considered solely a Bihari festival, but that view is outdated,” Manisha insists. “Now, it resonates nationwide with the same honor and tradition. Whether it’s celebrated in Bihar, Delhi, or Mumbai, the essence of Chhath brings everyone together.”

When she first arrived in Mumbai, she noticed a lack of that traditional festive spirit surrounding Chhath. “Initially, I thought Mumbai didn’t capture the essence of Chhath,” she recalls. “In Bihar, the entire city adorned itself in celebration, filled with devotion and anticipation. Here, I felt it went unnoticed.”

However, Manisha’s perspective shifted over the years. “As time went on, I discovered that Mumbai embraces every festival with warmth,” she states, smiling. “Last year, visiting Juhu Beach during the Usha Arghya, I was taken aback by the crowd—families, devotees, and children all engrossed in their rituals. It felt like home, filled with the same songs, faith, and emotions.”

Recalling her childhood, Manisha describes how Chhath was a festival of unity and devotion in Bihar. “Back then, our entire community came alive. Everyone made thekua, tidied their homes, and there was a pure, joyous ambiance. As children, we eagerly anticipated the beautiful ghats, the lamps in the water, and the spiritual bhajans filling the atmosphere,” she reminisces.

This year, however, she will stay in Mumbai due to work commitments. “I’ll miss being with family during Chhath,” she admits with a hint of longing. “Yet, I aim to celebrate in my own way—by praying, lighting a diya, and maintaining the festival’s spirit even when far from home.”

Manisha emphasizes that the true essence of Chhath Puja lies in discipline, gratitude, and faith. “This festival embodies purity and self-control. The fasts and the prayers connect us to nature and the divine,” she explains. “While different regions in India have their customs, the underlying emotion remains the same—deep devotion and gratitude.”

Reflecting on the impact of modernity and social media on festival celebrations, she shares, “Earlier, it was all about real connection—people gathered, sang, and supported each other. Nowadays, sharing online often overshadows the experience.” She smiles. “Yet, social media can raise awareness about our traditions, helping younger generations grasp their significance.”

Despite her busy schedule, Manisha keeps the festive spirit alive within her heart. “Even away from home, my prayers and emotions are always intertwined with my family. Chhath instills in us humility and the importance of staying grounded,” she says, noting its timeless lessons.

With a cheerful tone, she adds, “Festivals like Chhath Puja connect us to our roots. They remind us of our true identities, which is precisely what makes these occasions so meaningful.” Manisha concludes by expressing her longing for Chhath Puja prasad and her hopes for someone to bring some her way. “I’ve been asking Biharis around if they’re celebrating, just so I can have some ghar ka prasad! It’s truly a different joy and taste! I might even post something on social media to request my followers to send me some puja ka prasad—whatever it takes!” she chuckles at the thought.