‘Festivals are about family, food and gratitude for us’

As the city gears up for its most awaited season of lights and festivities,
Sanjay Budhia of Patton Group & Honorary Consul of Malaysia, along with his wife Minu Budhia, psychotherapist, counsellor and entrepreneur, share what Durga Puja and Diwali mean to them as a family. They reflect on how these celebrations are rooted in tradition, togetherness, and gratitude.
What do festivities mean to you as a family?
Sanjay Budhia: The festivities here begin with Vishwakarma Puja. For us, Pujo means good food, pandals & prasad – and a time when people from all over the world come to Kolkata to soak in the atmosphere. With UNESCO recognition, Durga Puja has gone beyond cultural celebration to become an economic multiplier, creating opportunities for so many people. It fills me with immense pride to see how it has reached global standards.
How do you celebrate festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali?
Minu Budhia: Puja today is no longer just three to five days – it stretches across 10 to 15 days, from Mahalaya to the Carnival after Dashami. I feel proud of Bengal’s heritage and creativity when people from outside come to see the pandals. The atmosphere is full of joy, festivity, and employment opportunities for so many.
We begin visiting pandals before the main five Pujo days to avoid the rush. During the festival itself, we often go on holidays. At home, food is at the centre of it all. This year our café has also curated a special Puja menu, which has been very exciting for us.

‘Diwali preps begin a month in advance’

For Sanjay and Minu, Diwali is about tradition, togetherness & homely warmth. “Our celebrations begin with get-togethers, cards, and dinners about 10 days in advance,” says Sanjay, adding that rituals are followed on Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, and Badi Diwali. “Buying steel utensils and silver coins are a must for us on Dhanteras,” adds Minu. A puja is first conducted at the office, followed by one at home on Diwali, where 51 diyas are lit with silver coins and the family enjoys home-cooked meals. For Minu, preparations start a month earlier with deep cleaning and shopping. The celebrations extend to Bhai Dooj — “I’m blessed with four sisters and they take turns hosting Bhai Dooj every year,” Sanjay smiles. Minu adds, “The next day is for blessings from elders, when relatives gather at our home in a fixed evening slot.”