Not even thinking about weight gain during Pujo: Nusrat Jahan

Stars, they're just like us — especially during Pujo. Nusrat Jahan may be an A-lister but her festive itinerary also strives by our eat, pray, love and lyadh philosophy. We caught up with the actor to learn about her Pujo plans, her travel diaries, her son Yishaan and her new secret project. Excerpts...
How are you planning to spend Durga Puja this year?
Pujo is always exciting since there's so much to do and almost no prior planning… that’s the best part.We’ll be busy every day... be it attending something or meeting friends. The whole city is lit up with joy, there are beautiful pandals, you can sample lavish Bengali lunches and yummy street food, indulge in adda with friends — we try to soak in the festivities in all possible ways.
What did you buy for your son Yishaan?
Yishaan is growing up so fast that he is outgrowing most of his unworn clothes. We bought quite a few things for him during our recent trip, so his shopping is almost done. His grandparents have gifted him a lot of clothes to shower their love and it’s always a blessing.
What did you buy for yourself?
I don’t normally shop for myself. I have a lot of new saris lying in my closet. Though I love it when someone surprises me with a gift (smiles).
What did Yash gift you?
Yash gifted me an exclusive handbag and a beautiful Kanchipuram silk sari in white and gold.
Pujo campaigns and brand endorsements have kept Tollywood busy. You’ve been selective about your deals...
Post-Covid, brands are slowly getting back to promotions and I am glad about it. I have endorsed fewer brands this year, as I was taking a much-needed holiday and couldn’t shoot as much.

Tell us about your recent trip to Bangkok...
Oh, it was great! But we weren’t really in Bangkok… we were far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, on a secluded island in Krabi. It was rejuvenating and much needed… to drain out all the stress and come back ready to take the world (laughs)!
You are a fitness freak. Do you plan to stick to your workout routine during Pujo?
Not at all! I’ve started binging and eating to my heart’s content because I’m already immersed in the Pujo vibes. I’m not even going to think about weight gain during Pujo.
What’s happening on the work front?
Luckily, work has always kept me on my toes. Managing home and work is still a challenge. I have been hearing scripts but nothing has caught my attention of late. But there’s something brewing and we’ll soon start giving it shape.
Lastly, what does stri shakti mean to you?
Maa durga can turn chaos into peace. I firmly believe she resides in each one of us as we fight and win over all the negativities.
Pix: Siladitya Dutta
Make and hair: Pritam and Abinash Bhowmick
Styling: Kiara Sen