Mumbai, India – November 13, 2026 – In a poignant reflection on cultural immersion and cinematic dedication, Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has shared his profound experience of participating in the sacred Chhath Puja rituals for the first time. This spiritual undertaking was not a personal pilgrimage but an integral part of his upcoming film, Yeh Prem Mol Liya, directed by the maestro of family dramas, Sooraj Barjatya. For Khurrana, a Punjabi by upbringing, the festival, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, presented a completely novel yet deeply moving encounter.
The film, slated for a theatrical release on November 27, 2026, features Khurrana alongside the talented Sharvari. The recently released song, "Bulaye Chhathi Maa," serves as a cinematic ode to the revered festival, intricately weaving its faith, devotion, and age-old traditions into the narrative. Khurrana’s involvement in the song’s portrayal allowed him to step beyond the confines of a typical actor’s role and truly immerse himself in the spirit of Chhath Puja, a sentiment he describes as both "beautiful" and "completely new."
The Sacred Significance of Chhath Puja: More Than Just a Song
Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and his sister, Chhathi Maiya, is one of the most ancient and revered festivals celebrated in India. Its origins are believed to date back to the Vedic period, with scriptures like the Rigveda mentioning the worship of the Sun. The festival is unique in its rituals, demanding rigorous devotion and adherence to specific practices performed over four days, typically falling in the months of October or November.
The core of Chhath Puja lies in offering arghya (a ritualistic offering of water) to the setting and rising sun. Devotees, known as vratis, undertake a strict fast, abstaining from water and food for the duration of the puja. The rituals are performed at the banks of sacred rivers, ponds, or any body of water, symbolizing purity and the life-giving properties of water. The festival is characterized by its communal nature, bringing together families and communities in a shared expression of gratitude and seeking blessings for prosperity, well-being, and the protection of loved ones.
)
While prominently celebrated in the eastern Indian states, the diaspora has spread the devotion of Chhath Puja to metropolitan cities like Delhi and Mumbai, and even to regions like West Bengal and Odisha. The song "Bulaye Chhathi Maa" aims to capture this profound emotional resonance, highlighting the deep-seated faith and the meticulous, often arduous, rituals that define the festival. It underscores the belief that Chhath Puja holds immense power to fulfill wishes and bestow good fortune.
Ayushmann Khurrana: An Unforeseen Spiritual Awakening
For Ayushmann Khurrana, a celebrated actor known for his nuanced performances and his commitment to exploring diverse cinematic narratives, the opportunity to be part of a Chhath Puja sequence was a significant personal milestone. "As a Punjabi, I had never celebrated Chhath Puja before," Khurrana shared candidly, his voice reflecting a blend of wonder and respect. "So, experiencing the festival for the first time was special for me. What stood out to me was the emotion and significance attached to Chhath and how beautifully it brings people together."
His Punjabi heritage meant that the intricate rituals and the deep-rooted devotion associated with Chhath Puja were entirely new to him. He described the experience as a profound learning curve, where every ritual unfolded with a hidden meaning, steeped in immense faith and devotion. "Every ritual has its own meaning, with so much faith and devotion behind it," he emphasized. "For me, it was much more than just shooting a song; I got to be part of a beautiful tradition that was completely new to me."
The actor’s journey into the heart of Chhath Puja was not merely about enacting scenes; it was about witnessing and absorbing the palpable devotion of the people who observe this festival with unwavering commitment. The meticulously followed rituals, from the nahai-khai (a day of bathing and eating only once) to the arghyas offered to the setting and rising sun, presented a spectacle of faith that resonated deeply with Khurrana. He observed the collective spirit, the shared prayers, and the profound sense of community that Chhath Puja fosters, a testament to its enduring cultural significance.
)
Sooraj Barjatya: The Architect of Cinematic Authenticity
The directorial vision of Sooraj Barjatya played a pivotal role in shaping Ayushmann Khurrana’s understanding and portrayal of Chhath Puja. Barjatya, renowned for his family-oriented films that celebrate Indian traditions and values with unparalleled authenticity, approached the Chhath Puja sequence with meticulous care and profound respect.
Khurrana revealed a particularly touching moment that underscored Barjatya’s dedication to capturing the essence of the festival. "There was also a very special moment before we shot the Chhath Puja climax sequence," he recounted. "Sooraj brought the entire cast together and played the Chhath Puja song for them. It was such an emotional moment, and we had tears in our eyes." This pre-shoot ritual served not just as a musical prelude but as a spiritual invocation, setting the tone and imbuing the cast with the reverence required for the scene.
)
Khurrana lauded Barjatya’s commitment to realism and his deep understanding of the festival’s nuances. "The entire cast was moved by the way Soorajji approached the Chhath sequence and the importance he gave to capturing its traditions and sentiments most realistically," he stated. This assurance from Khurrana suggests that Yeh Prem Mol Liya will not merely present Chhath Puja as a backdrop but will delve into its spiritual core, offering viewers an authentic and emotionally resonant experience.
Barjatya’s filmography is replete with examples of his ability to portray Indian festivals and traditions with a sense of grandeur and emotional depth. From the vibrant celebrations in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! to the familial bonds showcased in Vivah, his films have consistently celebrated cultural heritage. With Yeh Prem Mol Liya, he appears poised to continue this legacy, this time focusing on the profound devotion and unique rituals of Chhath Puja. The actor’s testimonial further solidifies the anticipation for a cinematic portrayal that honors the festival’s sanctity.
)
Supporting Data and Cultural Context
The significance of Chhath Puja extends beyond its religious aspects, playing a crucial role in strengthening social bonds and promoting community cohesion. The collaborative nature of the rituals, where neighbors and friends often come together to perform the puja, fosters a sense of collective identity and shared purpose. This communal aspect is a cornerstone of the festival and is likely to be a key element in Barjatya’s cinematic depiction.
Research into the cultural anthropology of festivals in India highlights Chhath Puja as a prime example of a folk festival that has gained mainstream recognition. Its emphasis on natural elements, particularly the sun and water, aligns with ancient animistic beliefs and practices. The rigorous nature of the vrat (fast) also speaks to the deep-seated faith and the belief in the transformative power of devotion.
)
Furthermore, the economic impact of Chhath Puja, particularly in regions like Bihar, is substantial. The festival stimulates local economies through the sale of traditional items, sweets, and materials required for the rituals. This socio-economic dimension, while not directly addressed by Khurrana, adds another layer to the festival’s importance in the lives of millions.
The resurgence of interest in traditional festivals, both within India and among the diaspora, has also contributed to the growing prominence of Chhath Puja. Social media platforms and cultural organizations have played a role in disseminating information and fostering a sense of pride in these age-old traditions. Ayushmann Khurrana’s personal experience, shared through media channels, further amplifies this awareness, introducing the festival to a wider audience.
)
Implications for the Film and its Audience
The authentic portrayal of Chhath Puja in Yeh Prem Mol Liya has the potential to resonate deeply with audiences, particularly those who observe the festival. It offers a cinematic experience that is not only entertaining but also culturally enriching. For viewers unfamiliar with Chhath Puja, the film could serve as an educational and insightful introduction to its rituals, beliefs, and emotional significance.
For Ayushmann Khurrana, this role marks a departure into a more culturally specific and spiritually grounded character. His ability to connect with and embody the emotions of a festival he previously knew nothing about is a testament to his versatility as an actor. His genuine appreciation for the tradition is likely to translate into a compelling performance that captures the heart of Chhath Puja.
)
The success of "Bulaye Chhathi Maa" as a song further suggests that the film’s musical score will be a significant asset, amplifying the emotional impact of the narrative. The combination of Barjatya’s directorial prowess, Khurrana’s nuanced acting, and a respectful depiction of a cherished festival positions Yeh Prem Mol Liya as a film with the potential for both critical acclaim and widespread audience appeal.
In conclusion, Ayushmann Khurrana’s firsthand encounter with Chhath Puja, facilitated by Sooraj Barjatya’s cinematic vision, offers a compelling narrative of cultural discovery and artistic dedication. The film promises to be more than just a story; it aims to be a heartfelt tribute to a sacred tradition, bringing its beauty, devotion, and communal spirit to the silver screen for all to experience. As the release date approaches, the anticipation for Yeh Prem Mol Liya is further heightened by the promise of an authentic and emotionally resonant portrayal of one of India’s most revered festivals.
