Saanand Verma: I devote myself to worshipping Lakshmi Maa on Diwali

MUMBAI: For actor Saanand Verma, Diwali means lots of fireworks, lights, victory of good over evil. He says that this is the time for positivity and friendship.
“It’s a joyful occasion because it’s the celebration of Goddess Lakshmi, where her blessings bring happiness. We all wish for Lakshmi Maa's grace, her blessings, and work hard hoping it will bring prosperity to our homes. This Diwali, I plan to devote myself to worshipping Lakshmi Maa, as I am facing some financial challenges and hope she showers her blessings upon me. I’ll focus on the puja, light some sparklers and diyas, and enjoy sweets,” says the actor.

However, for him the festival isn’t just about dressing up. “For the festival, I don’t focus much on traditional clothing—I’m not particularly excited by outfits. As an actor, I prioritize emotions and performance over costumes, leaving those details to stylists. But I do enjoy sweets, especially kaju katli, which is my favorite, and my mother’s handmade besan laddoos. There’s also a nostalgia for the colorful sugar candies shaped like animals that I enjoyed as a child,” he says.

He adds, “What excites me most about Diwali are the lights from the diyas, which bring a unique positivity and calmness. For gifts, I love giving dry fruits since they’re healthy and long-lasting. One memory that stays with me is of a Diwali when my mother couldn’t afford diyas or fireworks, so she lit incense sticks around the house. Remembering those humble times makes me feel deeply grateful for the blessings I have today.”