For actor Sreeleela, this Diwali will be unlike her previous ones. The actress, who has had a packed year and is awaiting the release of her film opposite Kartik Aaryan, revealed that the festival of lights will be spent in Mumbai this time on set. “I think I’ll be shooting this year,” she said, adding that while her schedule is demanding, the spirit of Diwali remains close to her heart.
Reminiscing about her family celebrations, Sreeleela shared that Diwali at home has always been about togetherness, decoration, and laughter. “Usually, Diwali has always been about the diyas, decorations, and all the girls in the house coming together. We’d sit together, decorate, and also be careful with curtains (that they don’t catch fire) and everything. It’s mostly about decorating the house, wearing pretty dresses, and taking pictures. I stay away from all the dangerous patakhas,” she said with a smile.
The actress spoke fondly about family gatherings, where even distant cousins would join in for food, laughter, and long conversations. “Diwali is when even cousins we haven’t met in months come together. We eat together, laugh, and enjoy the day. This year will be a little different since I’m in Mumbai, not Hyderabad,” she shared. Sreeleela also confessed that she doesn’t stick to any strict diet during the festival. “I eat whatever I like, especially sweets,” she said, adding that festive buffets and family dinners are her favorite part of the celebration.
The festive season, she revealed, also brings out her love for cooking. “I used to be very involved in making sweets at home. I’d make payasam. I love that process because the kitchen conversations are so special my grandma shares childhood stories, my mom jumps in, and we all bond while cooking,” Sreeleela recalled.
Even her Diwali outfits are a family affair. “Usually, my mom or grandma picks my outfit for me. If I’m going out to dinner, I might choose designer wear, but at home I prefer handloom. I’m also careful not to wear satin or anything that catches fire easily,” she explained.
Though this year’s Diwali will be spent on set, Sreeleela’s festive spirit clearly remains unchanged filled with fond memories, warm family traditions, and a heart full of gratitude.