Jyothsna Channdola: The significance of Chhath Puja has grown tremendously for me over the years

Jyothsna Channdola, best known as Khushi Bharadwaj in Sasural Simar Ka, takes an active part in celebrating Chhath Puja. Each year, she travels with her husband, Nitesh Singh, and their son to her in-laws’ home in Varanasi to celebrate the festival. She shares, “I am from Uttarakhand, so Nitesh’s culture was new tome. Initially, I wasn’t aware of the importance of the Chhath Puja rituals, but over time, I’ve become deeply involved and try to participate as much as I can. The significance of Chhath Puja has grown tremendously for me over the years.”

Talking about her participation this year, she says, “I try to help them make thekwaa (prasad). My mother-in-law was a bit unsure if I’d be able to make it since it’s tricky to prepare, and cooking isn’t exactly my strength. But I managed it, and for me, that’s quite an accomplishment!”

While it’s her elder sister-in-law who fasts for the occasion, Jyothsna makes an effort to assist with the household chores. The actress, who has also been part of shows such as Jodha Akbar, Santoshi Maa, Agnifera, Musakaan, Sindoor Ki Keemat, and Baazi Ishq Ki, explains, “We wear new saris, and my mother-in-law appreciates that I follow their customs to the letter. Only one person in the family fasts, and in ours, it’s my badi bhabhi. We wake up before sunrise each morning, take a shower, and get ready for the ritual. I even buy saris in advance for these auspicious four days. But for my bhabhi, the observances are much stricter. In the evening, I massage her legs and hands, which is also part of the ritual. Chhath Puja is a beautiful festival, and for me, it’s about being with family and honouring every tradition they observe. It brings me immense joy and a sense of belonging to share these sacred moments with my loved ones.”