Ah, Pongal! The festival that brings more joy than a surprise Bollywood cameo. Our favorite Tamilian at heart, Regena Cassandrra, is here to spill all the tea on why this festival is close to her heart. 🤗
Regena, born and raised in the bustling city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has a soft spot for Pongal, the festival that screams ‘gratitude’ louder than a Bollywood award acceptance speech. 🌾 "Growing up in a Christian household didn’t stop me from soaking in the cultural vibes of Pongal, thanks to my friends, neighbors, and the entire Chennai community," she reminisces.
Known for her stellar performances in films like Maanagaram (2017), Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga (2019), and Thalaivii (2021), Regena shares her vivid memories of the festival. "As a kid, I’d swipe traditional skirts from my friends just to fit in during the Pongal pooja. Helping with cooking and gobbling up that delicious pongal was the highlight! My heart always skips a beat for sakkarai pongal," she laughs. 🍚
The true charm of Pongal, Regena insists, is its inclusivity. "Even today, my house help crafts the most beautiful kolams outside my home. Her enthusiasm is contagious! The special spread of food we prepare is to die for. Though I’ve celebrated Pongal in places like Delhi and Mumbai, nothing beats the authentic love and warmth of a Tamilian Pongal," she gushes.
This year, she’s particularly pumped about a first-time event in her hometown. "Chennai is hosting a balloon festival during Pongal, and I can’t wait to be part of it! It’s going to be a blast!" 🎈
Kiran’s Gyan: Ah, Bollywood and festivals—a match made in cinematic heaven. Just like a masala film, Pongal is a mix of all things good: food, fun, and a sprinkle of inclusivity drama. Remember, just like our star Regena, embrace every festival with the enthusiasm of a Bollywood dance sequence. After all, life is a festival, and we are all the stars of our own movie! 🌟
