The actress shares her festive rituals, memories, and her love for traditional wear.
As Diwali approaches, Bollywood actress Urmila Matondkar opens up about how she celebrates the festival of lights, her favorite rituals, and what the occasion truly means to her. Known for blending tradition with elegance, Urmila says Diwali is her time for reflection, gratitude, and joy.
“Diwali Is My Time to Let Go and Shine”
Speaking about the essence of the festival, Urmila Matondkar says,
“Diwali is my official let-go time of the year. I completely indulge in Diwali snacks — from chivda and laddoos to my all-time favorite, anarsa! To me, Diwali is about light — it fills every corner of life with energy and positivity. Spiritually, it’s also about lighting yourself up from within.”
She adds, “As they say in Buddhism — Appo Deepo Bhava, meaning be a light unto yourself. It’s about leaving darkness behind and moving toward wisdom and clarity. I take this time to bow down to the universe and thank it for everything it has blessed me with.”
“I Never Play Cards with Money — It’s Not Our Tradition”
The actress follows traditional Maharashtrian rituals, including a beautifully detailed Laxmi Puja in the evening. However, she admits that one popular Diwali activity doesn’t appeal to her.
“I’ve never been able to play cards with money during Diwali,” Urmila laughs. “It’s simply not part of our tradition.”
Recalling her favorite on-set celebration, she adds, “My most memorable Diwali was during the shoot of Dillagi with Sunny and Bobby Deol. The energy was festive, the food was amazing, and we had so much fun together.”
“During Diwali, I Love Going Fully Traditional”
While Urmila usually prefers minimalist fashion, she says Diwali is the one time she embraces full traditional glam.
“I’m a huge fan of ethnic wear,” she explains. “If you’ve seen my songs like Chamma Chamma or Sabki Baaratein Aayi, I’ve danced in the heaviest lehengas and jewelry without losing energy. That’s my tribute to Indian culture.”
She continues, “In Khoobsurat, I showcased bridal looks from different regions — from Bengali to South Indian. I believe Indian jewelry is among the best in the world. During Diwali, I go all out with saris, lehengas, and temple jewelry — the complete traditional look.”
Urmila’s Cherished Childhood Diwali Memories
Reminiscing about her childhood celebrations, the Rangeela actress shares,
“When I was young, Diwali mornings started early. We’d be scrubbed with oil and ubtan, then asked to break a bitter fruit called Chirata with our heel — a symbolic act to remove negativity. After that came diyas, puja, and delicious Diwali faral with the family.”
She adds with a laugh, “We loved crackers, but only the soft ones — fuljhadis and anars. The only bad part was the homework! We always did it at the last minute before school reopened.”
“Firecrackers Terrify My Pets — So I Escape the City”
A devoted animal lover, Urmila Matondkar avoids noisy celebrations for the sake of her pets.
“My dogs are my family, and firecrackers terrify them,” she says. “So in recent years, I spend Diwali at my farmhouse. It’s peaceful and quiet, and my dogs are relaxed there.”
She concludes warmly, “For me, Diwali is about peace, love, and light — not noise. I celebrate it surrounded by nature, traditions, and those I love. That’s the true spirit of the festival.”
