I’ve always been a sajuni & pujo is my grand stage: Darshana Banik

For actress Darshana Banik, Durga Puja is the season of unfiltered happiness. From dressing up in elegant saris to pandal-hopping, adda, rituals, and street food, she embraces every moment. “For me, these experiences are not just activities, they are memories that capture the true essence of Pujo,” she says while posing for Calcutta Times in an exclusive shoot.

Shopping, traditions, and family bondsNo matter how many saris she owns, Pujo shopping remains non-negotiable. The joy has doubled after marriage, with her husband Saurav Das and in-laws gifting her new festive drapes. Lipstick, bindi, and nail polish are also part of her must-buy list. “Some rituals remain unchanged – even now, baba takes me Pujo shopping, with Sourav joining in now. And every shopping trip ends with their age-old tradition: mutton biryani and chaap.

For me, this blend of fashion, family, food, and festivity is what makes Pujo magical,” she says with a smile.

Memories GaloreDarshana’s Pujo mornings begin with Mahishasurmardini on Mahalaya, a ritual that continues till Lakshmi Puja. Years ago, she even played Maa Durga in a children’s Mahishasurmardini production on TV. “I secretly wish to relive that magical moment again,” she admits, adding that food is inseparable from her celebrations.

“The divine taste of bhog – khichuri, labra, naru, and fruits – remains unbeatable,” she says.Pandal-hopping, adda, and anjaliDarshana never misses pandal-hopping, even if it means braving all-night crowds. “While Saurav prefers to avoid the rush, I make it a mission to see the famous pandals and bonedi barir Pujo. Maa Durga comes once a year, and I don’t want to miss her blessings,” she says, adding that cultural programmes were another big part of her growing-up years.

“The rehearsals, the laughter, the excitement – I still want to relive it all,” she adds.

Some of her most cherished experiences are from her mamarbari in Barasat, where aunts taught her rituals.

From frocks to saris: A style evolution“I’ve always been a sajuni (someone who loves to dress up) and Pujo is my grand stage,” Darshana shares. Every day, from Chaturthi to Dashami, is planned with saris paired with jewellery, handbags, and watches. “My morning and evening looks are never the same,” she adds with a smile, revealing that this love for fashion goes back to her school days, when she would line up frocks with matching clips, hairbands, and shoes.

She says the best outfit was always reserved for Ashtami – a tradition she proudly continues.Pic: Tathagata Ghosh; styled by: Ayan Hore; makeup and hair: Babusona Saha, Gini Halder & Monty