Gudi Padwa 2023: Being an Indian, I celebrate most occasions, says Shubhaavi Choksey

Shubhaavi Choksey impressed everyone with her acting skills in shows like ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’, ‘Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii’, ‘Kasautii Zindagii Kay’, ‘Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 2’ and many more. Today, she is in an exclusive conversation with OTTplay on the auspicious occasion of ‘Gudi Padwa’.

To start with, what does the festival ‘Gudi Padwa’ mean to you?
It is new beginning, an auspicious start for many things …This year, as in today; I am performing a play after so many years …. In fact, I just finished my dress rehearsal and going to start getting ready with hair & makeup, since I have already slipped into my character.

Also Read: Bade Acche Lagte Hai 2: Nakuul Mehta-Disha Parmar out, Niti Taylor and Ranndeep Rai to play leads now? 

Do you celebrate ‘Gudi Padwa’?
Being an Indian, I celebrate most occasions and specially being born and brought up in Mumbai, there are so many festivals I get to be a part of … Although, I don't place a Gudi at my house, but, I try to go and visit my friends who do…. Mainly binge on the tummy puran poli and ukadiche modak. (laughs)

Can you tell us the significance of Gudi Padwa in your life?
It marks the birth of everything new …. Physically, mentally and emotionally apart from the materialistic aspect of life…. It’s an inception of new ideas that one can imbibe in one’s life to either accentuate the old good ones or get rid of the bad ones!!!

Also Read: Gudi Padwa is very special for me because it is also my grandfather's birthday: Adinath Kothare 

What are your fond memories related to the festival?
Many memories … My neighbours with the puran poli and modaks… The beautiful shlokss that the pandits recite during the pooja …

Since it's an extremely traditional day, can we see you wearing the traditional nauvaari saree and other accessories like jewellery?
I love wearing traditional sarees according to the region …. I haven’t had an opportunity to wear nauvaari sari for a very long time but I would love to … Since I am performing a play today unfortunately I cannot do so…

Has anyone gifted you anything on Gudi Padwa? If yes, then what?
The greatest gift that God and the universe have given me this Gudi Padwa is the chance to be a part of a theatrical play nearly after 20 years!!! Its my most special awaited gift!

Gudi Padwa marks auspicious beginnings. What are you planning to start on this day?
Like I mentioned before, I have a performance soon so I just did a small pooja at home before I left.

If you had to make a wish on ‘Gudi Padwa’ for you or anyone in your life, what would that be and for whom would you wish for?
I wish happiness and peace to prevail in this world. I wish may everyone be blessed with peace of mind body and soul as this is the most imperative thing!! And I pray to be a part of surprising projects this year too.