India, Oct. 17 -- A s Diwali draws near, actor Ridhima Pandit is looking forward to celebrating the festival in true Maharashtrian style, especially as she readies for her Marathi film debut. "I'm going to buy a beautiful kandil (lantern), which marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations for us Maharashtrians," she says with excitement. Her favourite ritual, she shares, is preparing festive snacks. "When I was younger, I'd create a mess rather than help my grandmother make sweets. But over time, I've learnt a few things. We make the traditional faral, chakli, ghoogra, and karanji, and it's something I always look forward to," she says. The actor also lets go of her strict diet during the festive week. "Five days before Diwali, my diet completely goes for a toss," she laughs, adding, "As actors, we're required to eat healthy. But during Diwali, I forget all about calorie deficits. We have a grand Maharashtrian lunch with amti, sweets and everything delicious. I love Indian mithai." Ridhima also enjoys decorating her home for the festival. "I hang a toran at the entrance, put up lights and decorate the house with my family. Diwali for me is all about warmth, food and togetherness," she smiles....