‘Pujo is incomplete without dhunuchi naach to dhak beats’

Newly-married couple Darshana Banik and Saurav Das say that they have always loved the Pujo-Pujo bhab in the air. From dressing up to binge eating, the couple knows how to make the most of the festive season. During a special shoot at South City Mall with us, they speak about how this year’s Durga Puja is special, their plans for their first Pujo post marriage, their upcoming trip, and more.
Excerpts from the adda...

This is the first Durga Puja after you two got married. How special is it and what are your plans?
Darshana Banik (DB): Last Pujo we were together as ‘special friends’, enjoying the Pujo parikramas, but this year is special for both of us. We’ve decided to work until Saptami, and from Ashtami onward, we’ll spend time with our families. We’re also excited to offer anjali together on Ashtami.
Saurav Das (SD): I’m eager to take Darshana to experience the Durga Pujas in the suburbs on Nabami, as they have a unique charm. We have many plans, but I can’t wait to see Darshana after sindur khela! A holiday is also planned after Pujo, as we’ve been working non-stop for the past two months. While I want to go to Indonesia, Darshana prefers Kashmir. The argument is on! Let’s see who wins.How has life changed after marriage?
DB: After marriage, I’ve taken over all of Saurav’s space, whether it’s his room or wardrobe. Despite this, every night when I return home from work, he makes it a point to serve me dinner and even gives me a head massage before I go to sleep. There is nothing more I can ask for.
SD: I have to say, the most ‘special’ part of marriage is that I have no space left in my wardrobe – every inch is taken up by Darshana. It’s just her clothes, shoes, jewellery, makeup... the list is endless.

What did you gift each other for Pujo?
DB: Saurav gives me gifts all year round. However, for Pujo, he has gifted me an authentic Sambalpuri sari from Odisha. While my in-laws have gifted me lovely saris, my father has given us money to buy something for ourselves.
SD: I am frightened when Darshana goes shopping, as she tends to buy whatever she sees. There have been times she has gifted me the same shirt twice. For Pujo she has already gifted me four-five kurtas.

Do you suggest outfits for each other?
DB: Not really. However, when we attend events or do photoshoots together, I tell him what I’m wearing, so he can plan his look accordingly.
SD: Oh yes, she does! I must say, Darshana looks stunning in a sari. I particularly love the South Indian look she’s sporting for the shoot. The white and gold combination is always classy!


What Durga’s homecoming means
Durga’s homecoming holds a unique meaning for everyone. For some, it represents joy, while for others, it signifies strength and positivity. Saurav says, “Durga’s homecoming means not having to wake up to an alarm and spending time with family.” For Darshana, it’s all about the festive vibes. She says, “It means the time has come to buy gifts for friends and family, go pandal hopping, indulge in street food, wear saris, enjoy long conversations at night, have bhog, and soak in positivity.”

'Darshana needs to be crowned for fighting! Though, no one can make out by seeing her that she can fight so much! She gets angry fast, but the best part is she also says sorry'
– Saurav Das



'I love dhunuchi naach and plan to perform it with Darshana at our para pandal. Apart from that, bhashan dance, and playing the dhak are something close to my heart'
– Saurav


I am quite excited about my first sindur khela on Dashami as it will be really special for both of us
– Darshana


I want to flaunt this south Indian look on Pujo as well
– Darshana Banik

Pix: Tathagata Ghosh
Makeup: Suman Ganguly
Hair: Jhalsa Dey
Darshana Banik styled by: Kiara Sen
Saurav Das styled by: Neel Saha
Props by: Rehan Waris
Location: South City Mall




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