Rashami Desai Balances Work and Faith During Navratri, Stays Barefoot for Nine Days

Actor Rashami Desai may be busy with professional commitments this Navratri, but she ensures her devotion remains at the forefront. The actress, who was last seen in the Gujarati film Mom Tane Nai Samjay and television shows like Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey and Naagin 6, is currently occupied with her stage play Mrs Mara Online Che. Despite her packed schedule, she continues to observe her long-standing festive practices.

“This is a working Navratri for me, but I don’t mind. My way of celebrating is constantly staying connected with Maa in my heart... Garba is performed barefoot, with deep reverence. So, I stay barefoot throughout the nine days every year. Even if I am at work, I follow this practice for years now,” she shares.

While she will only return to Mumbai for Dussehra (Vijay Dashmi), Desai ensures that the festive essence is still part of her routine. “It’s not as easy celebrating [with a busy schedule], but I still incorporate a festive essence in my day-to-day life. Being an ardent believer of Maa Durga, my faith lies in knowing that these nine days are the most powerful in all our lives,” she says.

At home, Navratri is all about togetherness for the actress. “We place this akhand diya for all nine days to complete the cycle and celebrate the last day with full masti. You can also spot me hogging fafda with papaya chutney — my fave Navratri food,” she laughs.

Reflecting on how celebrations have evolved over time, Rashami points out the inclusivity she admires. “I love seeing youngsters heading to pandals all decked up, be it in Ahmedabad or in Mumbai. Now people focus on the spirit of happiness, rather than on gender or religion. It’s very liberating and fills me with pride.”

For Desai, the festival would feel incomplete without dance. “Celebrations for me would be remiss without dancing. I’m more of a garba person and not a dandiya pro. Agar maine dandiya kiya toh sab bhaag jayenge! In fact, I began my Bharatnatyam journey after I won a set of cups for my garba performance at a Navratri pandal,” she signs off.

From staying barefoot throughout the nine days to cherishing garba nights, Rashami Desai continues to blend her professional life with her unwavering devotion, proving that for her, Navratri is as much about faith as it is about joy and celebration.