Devoleena Bhattacharjee on Janmashtami: Lord Kirshna is my lifelong friend who guides and protects me

MUMBAI: Janmashtami is a festival of joy and devotion that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna and inspires deep personal connections and reflections. As the festival approaches, Devoleena Bhattacharjee, who plays Chhathi Maiyya in Sun Neo's show Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, has shared her love and devotion for Lord Krishna, her plans for celebrating this year, and how his teachings have influenced her.

Discussing the significance of the festival, Devoleena said, "Janmashtami means a lot to me because I’ve felt connected to Lord Krishna since childhood. To me, he’s not just a deity but a lifelong friend who guides and protects me. The festival is a special time to celebrate his birth and feel his presence even more.”

She added, "I felt a deep connection with Krishna through my role as Gopi in Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Gopi was a devoted follower of Krishna, and that character brought me even closer to him. Now, while shooting for Sun Neo's Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, I feel a deep connection to Shaishav, whose innocence is similar to Kanha's. I have fond memories of playing with a Krishna idol as a child and treating him like my friend, which has strengthened my bond with him over the years."

Sharing her plans for this year, she said, "This Janmashtami, I'll be shooting for Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, so I plan to keep my celebrations simple yet meaningful. I’ll sing hymns, offer Krishna’s favorite makkhan and mishri, and perform the puja with love. I also enjoy observing the city’s celebrations and festive atmosphere. The rituals, like swinging the cradle with Krishna’s idol, bring me closer to him. I look forward to celebrating his birth with devotion and joy, both with my family and my team on set."

Finally, reflecting on Krishna's teachings, she said, "One of Krishna’s teachings that truly guides me is the belief that he’s always there for you. Since I was a child, I’ve trusted that Krishna would help me in times of trouble or confusion. This belief has given me strength and peace, knowing I’m never alone. His teachings remind me to stay devoted and trust that everything will work out with his guidance."

Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya celebrates the triumph of good over evil, emphasising faith and devotion to Chhathi Maiyya, who protects and guides her worshippers through life. Starring Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Brinda Dahal, and Ashish Dixit, Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya airs on Sun Neo every Monday to Saturday at 7 PM.