Nothing beats celebrating Pujo at home with family: Ankita Mallick

Pujo is the heartbeat of Bengal,” says actress Ankita Mallick, who is known for her portrayal of a feisty cop Jagaddhatri on television. Over adda at the picturesque AltAir Boutique Hotel, Ankita opened up about her childhood memories, her favourite traditions, and why this year, Pujo will be a little slower, calmer, and closer to home.Ankita recalls, “Before I was a part of Jagaddhatri, Pujo was only about hanging out with friends, going out, and enjoying myself. Back in college, the five days of Pujo meant adda, pandal hopping, and endless fun.” Even after her acting career took off, she often found herself busy with work during Pujo. “But this year, I am consciously choosing a different pace, and will be spending time with loved ones at home,” she said.With time and maturity, Ankita says her perspective has shifted. “I’ve realised we’ve lost touch with our value system and the idea of spending time with family. That’s why, on every day off now, I stay at home with my loved ones. Family get-togethers have become a yearly ritual, and I look forward to it.”Talking about her childhood memories of Pujo, Ankita said: “As a child, I loved the parar Pujo. All my friends from the neighbourhood would come together, and we’d watch the rituals and then eat bhog, visit the mela, and spend every day at the pandal. I treasure these magical memories deeply.”When I was a kid, my jethu used to cook bhog for the entire para. I was fascinated by it. He is no more, but this memory is still very fresh in my mindOutfit: Red anarkali set from Wishful, available at W storesHair: Soft curls for an elegant touchJewellery: Statement earrings add festive charmFootwear: Embellished block heels for festive glamAttitude: Confident, warm, and ready to celebrate with joyCourtesy: Pics:Anindya SahaStyled by: Anupam ChatterjeeMakeup: Prosanta Dey (Ronnie)Assist: Mou SamanthaHair: Piku MondalOutfit by: WSari by: Joyee