For actors Ranojoy Bishhnu and Shyamoupti Mudly, this year’s Doljatra is more than just a festival of colours. It marks the first chapter of many shared springs ahead. Having tied the knot on February 14, the ‘It’ couple of telly-town is discovering how rituals feel warmer and colours brighter when celebrated together. In an exclusive interview with Calcutta Times, they let love lead the way, speaking about shared rituals, childhood nostalgia, their Holi playlist and promises of lifelong togetherness.
How do you plan to kickstart Dol celebrations this year?Ranojoy Bishhnu: Since childhood, I’ve always begun Dol by offering abir to Radha and Krishna, then seeking blessings from our elders. Wearing a white kurta-pyjama has been a tradition I still cherish every year.Shyamoupti Mudly: We follow similar rituals at my parental home – offering abir at the mandir after a bath and wearing new clothes. I plan to continue the tradition.What about special Dol treats?RB: Our friends are coming over for lunch, and every year on Dol, we have pulao and mutton kosha. This time, it’s up to Shyamoupti (laughs), so let’s see!SM: We’re hosting a close gathering filled with adda and music. This year, I’ve taken charge of cooking and will also make thandai for the first time. We usually eat healthy, but festivals are meant for indulgence.
Tell us about your childhood Holi memories…RB: Growing up in Madhyamgram, Dol meant para cricket followed by mutton and rice with friends. Nyara pora – the bonfire ritual before Dol, symbolises the victory of good over evil, and I’ve always loved being a part of it.SM: As a child, I actively participated in the Doljatra Utsav at my dance school. I’ve never really enjoyed playing Holi wildly. Instead, my day would begin with delicious homemade food cooked by Maa, followed by time spent with my family and cousins. The dance performance for Doljatra Utsav added an extra dimension to my otherwise simple and warm celebration.
What are your thoughts on consent, especially during Holi?RB: Celebration should never cross into disrespect. Enjoy responsibly and avoid harming people or animals. Festivals should spread joy, not cause discomfort.SM: Everyone has the right to celebrate in their own way. Consent matters, and animals should never be subjected to colours. Being mindful is essential.First Dol together…RB: Thanks to Calcutta Times, our celebrations have already begun with this shoot. Firsts are always special, so this Dol will be truly memorable. We plan to spend the day together, sharing childhood memories and applying abir to each other. We aren’t big on playing with colours, but we love the spirit of the festival.SM: Everything feels brighter this year because we’re celebrating as husband and wife. Sharing the festival together makes it all the more special.
This year, Holi feels like V-Day. Smearing abir on my husband is my way of celebrating love. The sari that I am wearing today was gifted by him – Shyamoupti MudlyDol celebrates the love of Radha-Krishna. This Dol feels special as it is my first after marriage and I’ll be sharing the festival of colours with my wife– Ranojoy BishhnuI’ve never experienced Nyara pora, and plan to visit Ranojoy’s ancestral house in Madhyamgram, next year – Shyamoupti MudlyFirsts are always special, and this Dol will be etched in my heart forever – Ranojoy BishhnuFavourite Holi Songs of Ranojoy:Do Me A Favour – Let’s Play HoliBalam PichkariLaaglo Je DolFavourite Holi Songs of Shyamoupti Mudly:Rang BarseOre GrihobasiBalam Pichkari
Pix:Anindya Saha ; Makeup and hair: Sujoy and Nabo
