Makar Sankranti arrives as the year's first festival. It gently sets the mood for fresh beginnings and cherished traditions. For actor Shantanu Maheshwari, this celebration is deeply tied to fond memories of kite flying and family togetherness.
Festivals Foster a Sense of Togetherness
Shantanu emphasizes that festivals like Makar Sankranti help strengthen community bonds. He believes these occasions provide precious opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones. The actor makes it a point to participate in any puja or festive tradition at home. According to him, celebrating festivals keeps the inner child alive and vibrant.
The Irresistible Allure of Til Laddoos
No Makar Sankranti discussion feels complete without mentioning festive foods. Shantanu declares his unwavering love for til laddoos. He considers this winter period the perfect time to enjoy these healthy treats. The actor particularly cherishes the homemade laddoos prepared by his mother.
Eagerly Awaiting His Turn to Fly Kites
The Gangubai Kathiawadi actor admits he doesn't fly kites as frequently nowadays. However, the mere thought instantly transports him back to his school days in Calcutta. He recalls having a terrace, old buildings, and a strong community spirit during those times.
Shantanu describes how older boys would fly kites while younger ones assisted. Their tasks included tying the kite, standing up, throwing it, and sometimes running after it. He laughs while remembering these moments. When a kite got cut or stuck, someone had to retrieve it. Shantanu often volunteered for this job. He eagerly awaited his turn to actually fly the kite himself.
Contrasting Festival Experiences: Calcutta vs. Mumbai
After moving to Mumbai, Shantanu noticed significant differences in festival celebrations. He observes that kite flying in Mumbai tends to be more concentrated. Some buildings participate while others don't. In contrast, Calcutta's old buildings and close-knit localities fostered collective celebrations. The entire community would come together to mark festivals like Makar Sankranti.
Shantanu's reflections highlight how Makar Sankranti represents more than just seasonal change. It embodies cultural continuity, family connections, and joyful traditions that span generations.
