Stories
Shalmali Kholgade Questions Ganeshotsav's Spirit; Opens Up on Interfaith Marriage
- •Singer Shalmali Kholgade expressed her longing for the childhood excitement of Ganeshotsav, questioning the current way it's celebrated.
- •She stated that the 'homely feeling' of her building's Ganeshotsav is missing in the grand pandals and loud celebrations today.
- •Kholgade clarified that her Ganesha resides in her heart, and she carries that idea throughout the year, hence not celebrating in a traditional manner.
- •Speaking about her interfaith marriage to Farhan Sheikh, she emphasized that their parents prioritized their partner's character over religion.
- •Shalmali noted that her husband celebrates Ganpati with more enthusiasm than her, and believes all religions offer ways to enrich life.
Key Questions Answered
Shalmali Kholgade shared that she often questions why the modern celebration of Ganeshotsav lacks the warmth and homely feeling she experienced during her childhood in her old building. She noted that she no longer feels that same personal connection with the large pandals and loud loudspeakers in her current neighborhood.
Shalmali Kholgade married her boyfriend, Farhan Sheikh, in 2021 after being in a relationship for six years. The wedding ceremony incorporated both Hindu and Muslim customs in the presence of family and close friends.
For Shalmali's parents, the most important factor was whether her partner was a good person. They observed how he cared for her through various life situations over a five-year period, proving that religion was not a factor.
