Jay Bhanushali Reminisces Fond Navratri Memories and His Daughter Tara’s Love for the Festival

Actor Jay Bhanushali, hailing from Bhuj, Kutch in Gujarat, shares a deep connection with the festival of Navratri. "Navratri has been a very intricate part of my religion. Everyone looks forward to these nine days," the actor says, fondly recalling his childhood experiences. He likens the festival to modern-day clubbing, especially for the middle-class kids of the ‘80s and ‘90s. "For the middle-class kids from the ‘80s and ’90s, these nine days were like what clubbing for today’s generation is. This was the only time we used to get the chance to dance with family, friends, and even strangers. It’s actually like the Tomorrowland of Gujaratis."

Bhanushali also believes that Navratri is a significant cultural event that has the potential to draw international attention. "I feel that if Navratri is promoted to foreigners in a better way, people will come all the way, especially to Ahmedabad, to see the celebrations. So, it’s a really nice way for outsiders to come see and revel in our culture. It will also promote tourism to our country."

Growing up as the only Gujarati family in his colony, Jay shares that his family took the responsibility of organizing the Navratri celebrations. "We didn’t used to have the big music systems or have a professional DJ. But I had a very good music system which used to play cassettes, and we would bring that down, and I used to be the unofficial DJ." He fondly recalls how people from all religions came together to enjoy the festivities, with minimal fuss about celebrity presence or showmanship. "Everything was so minimalistic and it was beautiful," he adds.

Jay humorously reflects on how Navratri celebrations in his community colony in Mumbai became a matchmaking hotspot. "That is the only place that is open till five or six in the morning during Navratri. It’s only for the community people and it used to be the spot for matchmaking too. Adults would stand on the first floor and scout for prospective brides and grooms for their kids. It was our version of a matrimonial site."

Though it’s been a while since he visited the community celebrations, the 39-year-old actor hopes to attend this year. He also shares how the excitement of Navratri has rubbed off on his five-year-old daughter, Tara. "Anything with dancing and she loves it. She loves to get ready, and during Navratri, she gets this chance to do it. Her Gujju gene flares up during this time," he shares with a smile. Bhanushali notes that schools today celebrate festivals with themed days, and Tara enjoys deciding what she will wear each day. However, he jokes that with her growing up, he no longer gets to choose her outfits.

Jay Bhanushali’s memories of Navratri reflect not only his love for the festival but also his hope for its continued cultural significance and impact on future generations, both within India and abroad.