Fasting during Navratri keeps me centred: Sandeepa
India, Sept. 30 -- Ever since she was a child, actor Sandeepa Dhar has followed the ritual of fasting during all nine days of Navratri, which she describes as a "detox". As a Kashmiri Pandit, the customs of this festival connect her deeply to her cultural roots and heritage.
"I've been fasting since childhood. I only consume fruits, juices, and water throughout this period. The first three days are always the most challenging as your body adjusts, but once you cross that threshold, it becomes much easier. My daily routine becomes more mindful and centred during this time. It's actually a beautiful detox, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually too," the 36-year-old tells us.
Like anyone who truly enjoys Navratri, the kanjak puja holds a special place in Sandeepa's heart and is a cherished childhood memory.
She says, "One of my strongest memories is the kanjak puja. I was a part of a big group of girls, and we would go from home to home where families would worship us and feed us the most incredible food. The halwa, puri, and chana that are prepared during this time are just unforgettable. But as a young girl, what fascinated me the most were all the gifts we would receive."
The actor now hosts the puja at her home. "Now that I've grown up, life has truly come full circle. My mother and I host kanjak puja at our home, and when I see those young girls' faces light up the same way mine used to, it's incredibly moving."
"There's something so beautiful about continuing this tradition and giving the next generation the same joy I received as a child," she concludes....
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