As the skies fill with colourful kites and homes resonate with warmth and togetherness, the festive spirit of Makar Sankranti brings with it a sense of renewal, gratitude, and togetherness. Marking the harvest festival that symbolises new beginnings, hope and positivity, beloved Sony SAB artists Shrenu Parikh, Karuna Pandey, Nitin Babu, Deeksha Joshi, Neha SK Mehta, Rishi Saxena and Sumbul Touqeer Khan share what the festival truly means to them and open up about their personal traditions, childhood memories and the simple joys that make the festival a celebration of hope and harmony.
Shrenu Parikh, who essays the role of Goddess Parvati in Gatha Shiv Parivaar Ki – Ganesh Kartikey, says, “Makar Sankranti has always been my favourite festival since childhood, especially because it means Uttarayan back home in Vadodara. The 14th and 15th were all about flying kites from morning to evening, soaking in the winter sun, and indulging in seasonal delights like fresh carrots, bor, chikki, undhiyu and amla. I absolutely love flying kites and even today, friends from across the world make it a point to visit India around this time just to experience the festive buzz. Being married into a Maharashtrian family has introduced me to a beautiful new shade of the festival. Last year was extra special as it was my first Sankrant, and my in-laws hosted a lovely celebration at home where the women dressed in black, wore edible jewellery, and exchanged haldi-kumkum, wishing well for one another with the saying ‘til-gud ghya ani goad goad bola’. Even today, no matter how busy life gets, I try to keep that tradition alive and make the celebrations vibrant.”
Rishi Saxena, who plays the role of ACP Sanjay Bhosale in Itti Si Khushi, shared, ““Makar Sankranti has always felt like a festival of positivity and renewal to me. Growing up, it meant waking up early and then spending the day on the terrace flying kites with family and neighbours. There was so much laughter, friendly competition, and of course, endless snacking on til-gud and chikki. Now that I’m living in Mumbai and have also worked in the Marathi industry, til-gud has become an even more special part of my Sankranti ritual. What I love most is how the festival teaches us to let go of negativity and embrace sweetness in life. Even today, amidst hectic shoots, I try to keep the tradition alive in my own little way, by sharing sweets on set and soaking in the festive vibe.”.
Deeksha Joshi, who essays the role of Deepti in Pushpa Impossible, shared, “Being from Gujarat, Makar Sankranti holds a very special place in my heart. Uttarayan was never just a one-day celebration; it was a full-blown festival with friends, food, music, and kites filling the sky. From eating undhiyu and jalebi to shouting ‘kai po che’ from rooftops, the excitement was unmatched. Celebrating it now while working with the Pushpa Impossible family makes me nostalgic, but also grateful that traditions stay alive no matter where you are.”
Neha SK Mehta, who essays the role of Deepti in Pushpa Impossible, shared, “Makar Sankranti is a beautiful reminder of how festivals bring people closer. I have fond memories of celebrating it with my family, sharing sweets, and enjoying those simple, joyous moments. What I truly appreciate is the festival’s message to speak sweetly, live kindly, and move forward with positivity. On set, celebrating with the kids and the team adds to the joy, making the festival feel just as warm and special.”
Watch Itti Si Khushi, Ganesh Kartikey and Pushpa Impossible, every Monday to Saturday only on Sony SAB