India, April 5 -- The eighth day of Navratre today, Ashtami marks an auspicious time for those celebrating the festival. Television celebrities recall what their fondest childhood memories of the festival and it is safe to say that the lip-smacking halwa puri and channe get a special mention in everyone's core growing up memories!

As Gujaratis and artistes who perform on all nine nights, Navratri has been an important part of our lives [my family's]. As a child, I have the fondest memories of Ashtami puja with the entire family coming together to celebrate. For me, Navratri and Ashtami always meant following my roots, tradition and culture. I participated in every tradition with all my heart - be it helping prepare for the puja or the pr...