Sherleen Dutt: Navratri is a deeply meaningful time for me

When it comes to Navratri, actress Sherleen Dutt makes sure to make the most of the festivities. She says that there are some rituals she makes sure to follow.

“Navratri is a deeply meaningful time for me. I celebrate it by participating in the traditional rituals, such as lighting a diya every morning and offering prayers to Goddess Durga. I also try to visit a nearby temple during these days, which gives me a sense of peace. If I’m home, I make time for a small puja with my family, where we chant mantras and offer fruits and flowers for blessings,” she says.

She adds, “Navratri is a time of spiritual renewal and a reminder of the feminine divine power. It resonates with me on a personal level because it symbolizes strength and inner resilience, which I try to embody in my life. Each day of Navratri reminds me of the different aspects of the goddess, and I feel it helps me connect to my own emotional and spiritual growth. It's a beautiful way to reflect on the battles we face and the victories we achieve within ourselves.”

Talking about how she takes out time to be part of the celebrations, she says, “It can be challenging, but I make it a priority. Even with a hectic schedule, I carve out moments in the morning or evening for prayers and meditation. It doesn’t take long, but it helps me feel grounded throughout the day. I’ve found that participating in Navratri, even in small ways, is an important part of maintaining my balance amid all the chaos of my professional life.”

She adds, “I do follow the traditional fasting during Navratri. I avoid grains and certain vegetables, sticking to fruits, nuts, and specially prepared vrat-friendly meals. As a vegetarian, it’s not too hard to make dietary adjustments, but the focus is more on mindfulness and devotion during this period. Fasting helps me feel more connected to the spiritual essence of Navratri and gives me clarity of thought.”

Navratri has a lot of significance for her, she says, adding, “The theme of good triumphing over evil feels very personal to me, especially in terms of my career. As an actress, I’ve faced many challenges and moments of self-doubt, but like Goddess Durga, it’s important to stay resilient and fight through negativity. In my professional journey, I’ve seen how perseverance and faith in one’s abilities can lead to victory over obstacles. Navratri reminds me to stay strong, trust my instincts, and continue pushing forward, no matter what.”