Actors Rishi Saxena, Deeksha Joshi, Shrenu Parikh, Pooja Katurde, and Rajat Verma open up about their hometowns
Food and festive memories of Sony SAB TV Serial Actors
Living in a new city often means chasing dreams, long shoots, and packed schedules, but home has a way of calling back through memories, and familiar flavours. Sony SAB actors Rishi Saxena, Deeksha Joshi, Shrenu Parikh, Pooja Katurde, and Rajat Verma open up about their hometowns, sharing personal stories of growing up, family traditions, festive rituals, and the moments they carry with them even while living away. These memories remain their emotional anchors, reminding them that no matter how far life takes them, home is never too far away.
Rishi Saxena, playing the role of Sanjay, in Itti Si Khushi, shares, “Jodhpur is the place that built me. Even today, when I’m working in another city, my mind often drifts back to those blue lanes where I grew up. I miss the small things the most… the smell of fresh mirchi vadas in the evening, the taste of my mother’s dal-baati, and the quiet, comforting pace of life that Jodhpur naturally teaches you. Those are the things I miss the most. Even today, whenever I go back, I make it a point to revisit the places that meant something to me growing up. It grounds me. It reminds me of who I was before the world became bigger and busier. Being away has made me appreciate Jodhpur even more. No matter where work takes me, a part of me is always walking those streets.”
Shrenu Parikh, playing the role of Goddess Parvati, in Gatha Shiv Parivaar Ki – Ganesh Kartikey, shared, “Vadodara has been the most beautiful part of my childhood. The city is called Sanskari Nagri, a true cultural hub and whatever I am today is because of Vadodara. I used to participate in a lot of cultural activities; my acting, dancing, singing and even modelling career all began there. The city has given me some of my most cherished memories, especially of Navratri. No matter where work took me, I always found my way back home to play garba.
Dancing till 4 a.m. at Navlakhi Ground with friends was a ritual, and winning prizes along the way only made those nights more special. I grew up in a close-knit family and like any elder sibling, I was quite protective of my younger brother, Shubham. Festivals were always about togetherness. Uttarayan meant flying kites at my mama’s house, with plates full of chikki, undhiyu, and jalebis. Diwali was spent visiting my nana, enjoying simple moments and traditional snacks like fafda, chorafali, and mathiya. These memories remain close to my heart, they define home for me.”
Deeksha Joshi, playing the role of Deepti, in Pushpa Impossible, shared, “Growing up in Ahmedabad and studying at St. Xavier’s College shaped my sensitivity and the way I see the world. I loved the atmosphere so much that I never felt the need to skip classes, it was a space that encouraged curiosity and a deeper connection with the city around me. Ahmedabad itself has always felt vibrant and grounding. From the colours and energy of Navratri nights to the calm of Sabarmati Riverfront and the old-world charm of the pols, the city has a rhythm of its own. Back in 2021, when I shared a childhood photograph of myself using a handpump, it made me smile at how innocent moments from growing up here can later turn into memes. Childhood memories, much like the city, stay with you, layered with warmth, culture, and stories that quietly shape who you become.”
Pooja Katurde, playing the role of Prathana, in Pushpa Impossible, shared, “Coming from Pune, I grew up looking forward to the cooler months, especially for the traditional Marathi winter treats that made the season so special. Some of my fondest memories are of my grandmother lovingly making til-gud ladoos at home, simple moments that still bring warmth and comfort. My journey toward success truly began in college. The institute not only gave me technical knowledge but also shaped my confidence, discipline, and communication skills, qualities that continue to support me in the entertainment industry. Festivals and food have always defined my connection to the city. Visiting the Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple during Ganesh Chaturthi and enjoying a plate of misal pav are experiences that will always remain close to my heart. Pune, in many ways, has shaped who I am today.”
Tune in to watch Itti Si Khushi, Ganesh Kartikey and Pushpa Impossible, only on Sony SAB
