Priya Bapat and Umesh Kamat: Festivals are about celebrating culture and traditions together

For actors Priya Bapat and Umesh Kamat, Ganeshotsav celebrations are reminiscent of many childhood memories. During their recent Pune visit, the couple joined us at a Ganpati idol store and shared their love for Bappa and the festival. “I love Ganpati Bappa and I have felt a deep, personal and friendly connection with him since my childhood. Our gharcha Ganpati would be at our relatives’ place in Konkan but it wouldn't be possible for me to go there every year. So, for me, the earliest and fondest memories of Ganeshotsav are those of the common celebration at our chawl in Dadar,” recalls Priya. “I think one of the things Priya was looking for in a husband was that he should celebrate Ganeshotsav at his home,” jokes Umesh. The actors, who are reuniting on the big screen after 12 years for the upcoming Bin Lagnachi Goshta, say that they don’t miss celebrating the festival come what may. “We take time off from work during Ganeshotsav,” says Priya. Umesh adds, “Hosting Bappa at home is something that started when my father was young. Now, we continue the tradition. Decorations, preparing good food, hosting relatives etc are things that we love doing.” Both of them agree that they are traditionalists when it comes to celebrations and believe in keeping it simple. “Ganeshotsav marks the beginning of the festive season, and it has an energetic vibe that I love,” says Priya, adding, “But every year this vibe is changing. To each their own, but for me the culture, traditions and my love for Bappa is a very personal thing. Today, the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav has changed so much but I feel the simpler we keep the celebrations, the more beautiful they become.” On his part, Umesh adds, “Ganeshotsav is easily my favourite festival of the year. The sounds of dhol-tasha, the chants of mantras and ‘Ganpati Bappa Moraya’, these are the things that I love about it. But when we commercialise the celebration and make it competitive, then the essence of the celebration is lost somewhere. Festivals are about celebrating our culture, traditions and the spirit of togetherness.”