Divya Dutta on Diwali Joy Traditions and Eco-Friendly Celebration

For actor Divya Dutta, Diwali is more than just a festival—it’s a “tonic.” “Yahan se apni urja lekar kaam pe jaate hain!” she says. “This is the time to unwind, and it's like ‘kaam ki baat Diwali ke baad.’ It’s time to spread happiness with family, friends, and those who work for you!”

Divya adds, “Above all, it’s about pampering yourself—dressing up well, decorating your house, and refreshing everything. There is something about this festival… pata nahi kya. Hawa mein kuch naya hota hai!”

A non-negotiable tradition for her is Diwali shopping. “I literally go mad when it comes to festive shopping! I put on a cap, mask, and big sunglasses, and I head to the busiest market in Mumbai,” she reveals. “Even if you are a known face, you should not distance yourself from these small joys of life. I disguise myself and try not to talk much, as people recognise my voice, so I give signals to my brother and we shop. (laughs) I love indulging in that mahaul.”

At home, she continues the tradition of making halwa, a skill passed down from her mother. “Suji ka halwa is a must in my home, and I make it with a lot of love and passion. Even my cook says, ‘aapke haath ka halwa koi nahi banata.’ I also enjoy decorating the ‘hatti’ (earthen hut) during the puja, as it is believed to bring prosperity. I perform the puja tradition exactly as my mother used to do.”

Divya’s must-visit place during Diwali is the home of actor Shabana Azmi. She also enjoys get-togethers with her close circle of actors, writers, DOPs, and directors. She misses Amitabh Bachchan’s famous Diwali party, which she used to attend.

Despite being a “die-hard sari person,” Divya prefers to wear a lehnga on the festival day. She has also successfully kept Diwali free for herself. “Shoots do happen these days, but luckily, I have always been at home for the festival. Last year, I was shooting close to Diwali, but I reached home just in time.”

She concludes with a heartfelt message: celebrate with light, happiness, and love, and say no to crackers—for the sake of the environment and our pets.