Aniruddh Dave who is presently seen in the Disney+ Hotstar series Thukra Ke Mera Pyaar is a versatile performer, having played the most challenging of characters in every medium of work. He was seen in the Kartik Aaryan starrer film Chandu Champion too. On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, Aniruddh talks about the festival’s significance. He also greatly emphasises his family’s kite-flying skills which are displayed often during this time of the year.
He says, “Since childhood, Makar Sankranti has held a special place in my heart because of my father’s love for kite flying. He was renowned for his kite-flying skills in our area. He loved engaging in kite battles and always brought Bareilly’s special manjha. That manjha was so sharp that it could easily cut fingers, but my father was always prepared—he would use finger tapes to protect his hands. We would celebrate at my tau ji’s house, spending the entire day there from breakfast to dinner. At night, we would fly the kandil—a special night kite—while staying at home.”
“Since moving to Mumbai, celebrating festivals has taken a backseat. However, on January 14th, I usually travel to Surat, as it is my guru ji’s birthday. Uttarayan, Gujarat’s biggest festival, is celebrated on a grand scale there. I am not sure if I’ll be able to go this time, but I hope to make it,” he continues.
He further elaborates on the aura of this festival saying, “Growing up, we celebrated with great enthusiasm. We would set up huge music speakers on the terrace and shout “Vo Kata!” in Rajasthan, just like people in Gujarat say “Kai Po Che!” Our collection of kites was massive, with all kinds of designs and colours. Alongside kite flying, we enjoyed til ke ladoos and dal pakodi with green chutney. The preparations would begin days in advance, with kites being readied on Lohri night for the next morning. The atmosphere was magical, with songs like “Udi Udi Jaye” playing in the background, kids holding phirkis, and the excitement in the air making it unforgettable.”
Wishing all our readers Happy Makar Sankranti!!