Actress Shanaya Kapoor has offered a heartwarming glimpse into her family’s cherished festive traditions. The star, daughter of Sanjay and Maheep Kapoor, discussed the deep personal significance of celebrations like Bhai Dooj and Diwali in an exclusive interview. Her anecdotes highlight family bonds and nostalgic childhood memories.
Kapoor vividly described her playful Bhai Dooj ritual with brother Jahaan. She recounted how they annually tease each other during the festival. Jahaan often reacts melodramatically to his gifts.
He then re-gifts the same item to her the following year, simply wrapped in new paper. Kapoor called this their “small tradition” filled with “a bit of joking, a bit of love, and a lot of laughter.”
Recalling her childhood Diwalis, Kapoor’s face lit up. She noted that the festival always meant gathering at her grandmother’s house. The entire family would perform puja and light traditional earthen lamps (diyas) together.
Kapoor described an atmosphere filled with “light, laughter, and the scent of home.” These moments created unforgettable feelings.
She also remembered a friendly competition among the cousins. They would challenge each other to see whose diya would burn the longest. If a lamp blew out, they insisted on relighting it.
These “small things became such big memories” for her.
When discussing sweets, Kapoor immediately mentioned her maternal grandmother’s homemade Besan ke Laddoo. She declared these traditional Indian sweets to be her “real Diwali.” Her grandmother personally makes them every year.
The aroma filling the house signals the arrival of Diwali for Kapoor. She said that no matter how many other sweets she eats, her grandmother’s laddoos hold a special place, carrying “the taste of childhood in every bite.”
The Kapoor family shows immense enthusiasm for Diwali preparations. Shanaya and her mother, Maheep, are responsible for decorations, including flowers, diyas, and fairy lights. Her father, Sanjay, takes charge of the snacks.
Sanjay Kapoor approaches his snack duty with great seriousness, often experimenting with new dishes and serving them “like a chef.” After the puja, everyone gathers to eat, talk, and create cherished moments that last throughout the year.
Kapoor also shared her personal style philosophy regarding jewelry. She prefers sparkle that enhances an outfit rather than overpowering it. She described her favored pieces as timeless, beautiful, and versatile.
For Diwali, she typically opts for statement earrings or layered necklaces. These pieces are light yet elegant, designed to complement one’s personality rather than compete with it. She believes jewelry should exude “a little sparkle and a lot of confidence.”
A special mother-daughter ritual with Maheep Kapoor marks the beginning of their Diwali celebrations. They get ready together, helping each other choose jewelry. Sometimes, they even swap their favorite pieces.
This time is precious, free from phones or any rush. It is just “mom, me, and our laughter,” a truly sweet start to their festive season.
When asked about her most touching Diwali moment, Kapoor paused before responding. She explained that the puja, when everyone sits together, is profoundly moving. Phones are put aside, and the usual hustle and bustle cease.
Only the diya’s flame, traditional chants, and the family’s radiant faces remain. In that moment, she feels deep gratitude for the light and togetherness. That is when she truly understands the essence of the festival.
Kapoor concluded with a heartfelt Diwali wish for everyone. She hoped that all would “keep their light true.” The festival is not about the grandeur of the celebration, but about those with whom you celebrate.
She advised everyone to be with their family, laugh abundantly, and indulge in a sweet that brings back childhood memories. Ultimately, Diwali’s brilliance comes from the sweetness of these shared moments.
