Neha Joshi, Yogesh Tripathi and Rohitashv Gour share their unique Diwali traditions!

With Diwali around the corner, excitement to celebrate the festival of lights is palpable. Preparations are in full swing as people deep clean their homes, create shopping lists, plan festive menus, and choose new outfits. Many are also arranging trips to their hometowns to celebrate with loved ones. As the energy builds, &TV actors including Neha Joshi (Krishna Devi Vajpayee from Atal), Yogesh Tripathi (Daroga Happu Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Rohitashv Gour (Manmohan Tiwari from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) share their unique plans for the festival.

Neha Joshi, known as Krishna Devi Vajpayee in Atal, expresses her fondness for the festival saying, “Diwali has always held a special place in my heart. We start preparing at home well in advance, embracing our Maharashtrian traditions. One cherished ritual is the early morning abhyanga snan (oil bath), believed to cleanse the body before the festivities. We also light diyas around the house to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, bringing warmth and light. I’m a strong advocate for an eco-friendly Diwali, opting for traditional clay oil lamps instead of fireworks. This year, I’ve sourced beautiful hand-painted diyas from local artisans, supporting them while keeping the celebration environmentally conscious. To me, Diwali represents the light within us, and spreading joy shouldn’t come at the cost of nature. A highlight of the festival is the delicious Maharashtrian cuisine. I love making traditional dishes like puran poli, shankarpali, and chivda. These homemade treats evoke fond childhood memories, making the celebration even more special. Sharing them with family and friends brings me great joy.”

Yogesh Tripathi, who plays Daroga Happu Singh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares his enthusiasm, “Diwali is a very special festival, and I eagerly anticipate the joy it brings each year. Our preparations begin early with a thorough cleaning of the house, which is essential for inviting positive energy and prosperity. My family and I decorate our home with diyas, rangolis, and lights to create a festive atmosphere. A cherished ritual is the Lakshmi Puja, where we gather to offer prayers for happiness, health, and wealth. After the puja, we light a few crackers and indulge in traditional sweets made by my wife. The best part of Diwali is spending time with family, sharing laughter, and reflecting on the past year, which strengthens our bond. As Daroga Happu Singh, my shooting schedule can be hectic, but during Diwali, I make sure to take time off to immerse myself in the festivities with my loved ones.”

Rohitashv Gour, known for his role as Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, adds, “One of my most important rituals each year is performing the Lakshmi Puja with my family. It’s a sacred moment where we pray together, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness. After the puja, our home is filled with the delightful aromas of festive sweets and snacks. My wife and daughters prepare traditional dishes, and we gather to enjoy the flavors of Diwali, reminiscing about old times and creating new memories. My wife, an excellent cook, makes a variety of sweets, including my favorites—her homemade gujiyas, crispy on the outside and filled with a rich mixture of khoya and dry fruits. She also prepares besan laddoos and sooji halwa. The smell of these treats takes me back to my childhood Diwalis. I also prioritise giving back during this time, whether through charity or by spending time with those who may not have family around.”

Watch your favourite artists in Atal at 8:00 pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 pm, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm, airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV.