Urmila Matondkar on Diwali 2025: “It’s Time to Light Yourself Up from Within”
The actress opens up about her festive rituals, favourite snacks, and love for Indian tradition.
Bollywood icon Urmila Matondkar is known for her grace and her love for Indian culture. As Diwali 2025 approaches, the actress shares her thoughts on how she celebrates the festival of lights — blending spirituality, tradition, and a touch of nostalgia.
“Diwali Is My Time to Let Go and Reconnect”
Speaking about what Diwali means to her, Urmila Matondkar says, “Diwali is my official let-go time of the year. I completely indulge in snacks like chivda, laddoos, and especially anarsa, my all-time favourite.”
She adds, “Diwali is all about light — it fills your home and your heart. Spiritually, it’s the moment to light yourself up from within. Like in Buddhism — ‘Appo Deepo Bhava’, which means be a light unto yourself. It’s about letting go of darkness and stepping into clarity, wisdom, and gratitude.”
Urmila’s Take on Diwali Traditions
Urmila follows her Maharashtrian roots with devotion. “Our Laxmi Puja in the evening is detailed and beautifully decorated,” she shares.
However, she laughs as she admits, “One thing I’ve never done is play cards with money. That’s just not part of our family’s tradition.”
Recalling her time on film sets, she says, “My most memorable Diwali was during the shoot of Dillagi with Sunny and Bobby Deol. The atmosphere was festive, the food was delicious, and everyone was full of joy.”
“During Diwali, I Love Going Fully Traditional”
Known for her timeless elegance, Urmila lights up the festive season in full traditional style.
“I’m a huge fan of ethnic wear,” she says. “If you’ve seen my songs like Chamma Chamma or Sabki Baaratein Aayi, I’ve danced in the heaviest lehengas and jewellery without losing energy. That’s my tribute to Indian tradition.”
She continues, “In Khoobsurat, I showcased bridal looks from across India — Bengali, South Indian, and more. Generally, my style is simple, but during Diwali, I love wearing saris, lehengas, and temple jewellery. I go all out!”
Cherished Childhood Memories of Diwali
Looking back on her childhood, the Rangeela actress smiles. “When I was young, Diwali mornings meant waking up early, applying ubtan and oil, and breaking a bitter fruit called Chirata with our heel — a symbolic act to drive away negativity.”
“After that, we’d light diyas, perform the puja, and enjoy Diwali faral with the whole family,” she says fondly. “We played with gentle crackers — fuljhadis and anars. The only bad part was Diwali homework! We always left it till the last day.”
“I Celebrate a Peaceful, Pet-Friendly Diwali”
A proud animal lover, Urmila prefers quiet celebrations away from the city. “My dogs are my family,” she explains. “Firecrackers make them panic, so I go to my farmhouse during Diwali. It’s peaceful there, and they’re relaxed.”
“I celebrate Diwali my way — calmly, traditionally, and surrounded by love,” she says. “That’s what the festival of lights truly stands for — peace, gratitude, and inner brightness.”
