Vidisha Srivastava, popularly known as Anita Bhabi from &TV’s cult comedy Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, is all set to celebrate Karva Chauth with great excitement. Vidisha reveals that this festival has always been special even before she got married to Sayak Paul. In this exclusive chat, she shares her plans for this year’s Karva Chauth and how she continues to make this day memorable.
Do you have any special plans for this Karva Chauth?
Karva Chauth has always been a cherished occasion for me, and this year, I have decided to make it even more special by dressing up as a bride for my husband (laughs). I love this festival for many reasons, one being the opportunity to wear a beautiful saree and do the solah shringar (sixteen adornments). Every year, I choose a different shade of red for the occasion and enjoy shopping for it. But this time, I plan to re-wear the saree from my wedding day – it is a gorgeous red chunari. I am excited to see my husband’s reaction when he sees me dressed as a bride again. Karva Chauth is that one day of the year when we get to deck up like brides for our husbands and celebrate love.
Do you fast every year?
Yes, I fast every year. You might be surprised to know that my husband also fasts with me! We started this tradition even before we got married. His love and devotion make me feel incredibly lucky. Sometimes, he even says, ‘You don’t need to fast, I’ll do it for you instead’. It is moments like these that make the day so special for us.
Are you shooting for Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai on Karva Chauth?
Yes! I am excited because we are likely to shoot a Karva Chauth-themed episode around that time. So, it will be double the celebration for me—both onscreen and offscreen. I cannot wait!
Which Karva Chauth has been the most memorable for you?
Every Karva Chauth is memorable because we celebrate it as a family. I perform the puja with my sister-in-law, and all the women in our society gather with their Kalash to offer prayers. The anticipation to see the moon, and finally breaking the fast by drinking water from my husband’s hands, is always special. But if I had to pick one, it would be my first Karva Chauth. I secretly fasted for my then-boyfriend and now-husband, without telling anyone. It turns out, he did the same for me! Our families eventually figured out why we were not eating that day (laughs), but it is a special memory I cherish deeply.
What is the most special gift you have received on Karva Chauth?
I am not a demanding wife at all. I always tell my husband not to bring me gifts, but he surprises me with something special every year. Our relationship is unique, and I feel a deep sense of happiness when I receive a gift – not because of the material value but because of the love and thought he puts into it. It is the effort behind the gift that makes it truly special.
