The festive spirit of Durga Puja lit up the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal as several Bollywood celebrities joined devotees in offering prayers on Monday and Tuesday. The prestigious event, now in its 79th year, witnessed the presence of author and former actress Twinkle Khanna, who offered prayers and reunited with her friends Kajol and Rani Mukerji. The trio shared smiles, exchanged festive greetings, and posed for photographs, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
Twinkle, Kajol and Rani reunite at the pandal
Twinkle Khanna’s presence brought a nostalgic touch to the celebrations, as she was seen catching up with Kajol and Rani Mukerji, both of whom are known for their enduring connection with the festival. The actresses, dressed in traditional attire, were warmly received by devotees as they joined in the rituals of Durga Puja. Their camaraderie at the pandal became a highlight of the evening.
Priyanka Chopra seeks blessings
On Tuesday evening, actor Priyanka Chopra also visited the North Bombay pandal to seek blessings from Goddess Durga. Dressed in a royal blue suit, the global icon radiated festive elegance and desi vibes. Visuals captured by photographers showed the Mary Kom star extending greetings to fellow devotees as she offered prayers. Her appearance added to the grandeur of the celebrations, with fans delighted to see her actively participating in a festival close to her cultural roots.
Ranbir Kapoor joins earlier
A day earlier, actor Ranbir Kapoor had also been spotted at the same venue. Dressed in a traditional blue kurta paired with white pyjama, the actor exuded desi charm as he paid his respects to Goddess Durga. His presence on Monday set the tone for a star-studded week of festivities at the pandal.
Significance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated across India, especially in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Tripura, and parts of Maharashtra. The festival commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasur, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess descends to her earthly abode during this period to bless her devotees.
The North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja, with its long-standing tradition, has emerged as a cultural landmark in Mumbai. Every year, the pandal attracts thousands of devotees along with film stars and public figures, turning it into a confluence of devotion, tradition, and glamour.
A blend of devotion and glamour
The presence of celebrities like Twinkle Khanna, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Priyanka Chopra, and Ranbir Kapoor has once again highlighted how the festival unites people from all walks of life. While devotees thronged the pandal to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga, the actors’ participation added an extra sheen to the celebrations.
With rituals, cultural performances, and the festive air growing stronger as the week progresses, the 79th edition of the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja has once again reaffirmed its place as one of the city’s most cherished traditions.