Mumbai: Actor Arun Mandola, who is known for playing Lakshman in Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanumaan and Vighnaharta Ganesha, recently portrayed Shri Ram in the stage production Ramayana Manchan. This Diwali, the actor is particularly excited as he is heading to his hometown Delhi to celebrate the festival with his loved ones after almost 10 years. Speaking about his festive plans, childhood memories and what makes celebrating Diwali in Delhi special, Arun shares,
“This Diwali, I am going to my hometown Delhi. I am celebrating Diwali there after almost 10 years, and I am extremely excited. Life in Mumbai is so busy that I rarely get an opportunity to visit Delhi and enjoy the festival at home. Mumbai is also a wonderful place to celebrate Diwali, but the festive vibes in North India are on another level. Home is home, especially the place where you have spent your entire childhood. Being back in Delhi makes me feel as if I have returned to my childhood days. I feel Diwali and Dussehra are best celebrated in Delhi, whereas Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri Dandiya have their own charm in Mumbai.”
Talking about his fondest childhood memories associated with the festival, he says, “My favourite and most memorable Diwali memories are from my childhood. I would always be super excited as the festival approached. Decorating the house, getting it painted, lighting diyas and going shopping for new clothes were some of the things I looked forward to the most. I also remember the excitement of visiting markets like Connaught Place, Janpath, South Delhi markets and Sarojini Nagar. During my school days, these were my favourite shopping destinations. I loved the energy of these places during Diwali. It has been almost 15 years since I last visited some of these markets, but they still hold a special place in my heart. They are among the best places for people in Delhi to shop and enjoy the festive atmosphere.”
The actor further reveals that his visit to Delhi also has some professional commitments. “I have some important plans in Gurugram, which is also why I came to Delhi. Nowadays, I rarely get a chance to visit my hometown. Unless there is an event or some professional work, I don’t really get to travel here. So, this visit is special for me, and I am looking forward to making the most of it.”
Sharing a festive message for his fans and friends, Arun concludes, “I just want to wish all my fans and friends a very happy Diwali. Eat lots of mithai and decorate your homes. This Diwali, burn away all your negativity with the blessings of Lakshmi Pujan. I absolutely love this back-to-back festive season, starting with Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, Badi Diwali and Bhai Dooj, followed by Chhath Puja. There is so much happiness and positivity around this time. However, I also want everyone to stay safe. If you are bursting firecrackers, please make sure you are with your children and teach them how to handle them safely. I made this mistake many times during my childhood, so I understand how important it is to be careful. Celebrate responsibly and have a wonderful Diwali.”
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