Cinema VinesShriya Pilgaonkar, daughter of veteran actors Sachin and Supriya Pilgaonkar, shared her thoughts on the significance of Ganesh Chaturthi with HT City, explaining how the festival has become even more meaningful this year after the release of her two latest films, Mirzapur The Movie and Haiwaan. The actress highlighted that for her, the celebration is not merely a religious observance but a vibrant expression of Maharashtra’s culture, history, community and spirit.
According to Pilgaonkar, Mumbai takes on a different, almost magical, aura during the festival. She described the city’s collective energy, hope and joy that permeate the streets, and expressed her love for the way the entire metropolis comes together to honor Lord Ganesha. “It is a beautiful feeling to see the city come alive, and there is so much hope, celebration, and joy that Ganesh Chaturthi brings in,” she said.
Growing up in a family steeped in tradition, Shriya recalled the rituals that have long been part of the Pilgaonkar household. The day begins with an aarti at Siddhivinayak temple, followed by visits to her father’s side in Dadar and then to her mother’s side. She emphasized how these gatherings, filled with food and music, were the only occasions—besides Diwali—when the entire family would unite. “Our elders, my grandparents would share stories about their childhood days,” she noted, underscoring the importance of passing down customs.
While the younger generation is now taking the lead in organizing the celebrations, Pilgaonkar expressed pride in how the family’s legacy continues to evolve. She shared the tradition of making ukadiche modak with cousins and the excitement of pandal hopping, a pastime she still enjoys with friends. “Each pandal has its own unique energy and the way they decorate them is as per theme,” she added, reflecting on the festival’s creative spirit.
Beyond the festivities, the actress stressed the deeper meaning behind the rituals. She explained that Bappa represents auspicious beginnings and that her family greets the day with “Ganpati Bappa Morya” to invite positive energy. Even on film sets, the first shot is taken while chanting the phrase, symbolizing a dedication of art and effort to a higher power. “I love that aspect of Indian culture, especially Ganesh Chaturthi,” she said, highlighting how the festival fosters a sense of surrender and reverence.
