Akshaya Tritiya 2023: I don't buy gold... I buy only usable stuff, says Madalsa Sharma

There have been many films and serials which have seen ‘turnarounds’ of their character. But the one turnaround that literally tops everything else is that of Kaavya’ in the telly land’s most favourite serial ‘Anupamaa’, which is simply refusing to leave the topslot since many years now. Even though Kaavya (played by the extremely soft-spoken Madalsa Sharma) had dark shades, but, with the passage of time, she not just became a positive person, but also the darloing of millions all over.

It is the very same Kaavya aka Madalsa Sharma who we, at OTTplay, got into an exclusive conversation on the auspicious occasion of ‘Akshaya Tritiya’.

Hi Madalsa! Tell us as to what does ‘Akshaya Tritiya’ mean to you?
Akshaya Tritiya is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Parshuram. Parshuram, who is the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that whatever we do on Akshaya Tritiya lasts forever. So, people mostly buy gold etc on this auspicious day.

Also Read: Akshaya Tritiya 2023: It is a very happy day in the entire Puri household, says Vardhan Puri 

Since when did you start celebrating the festival?
In Mumbai, we hardly get time to celebrate this festival because we don't get holidays, and we all work. But in Delhi, since my father belongs to a traditional Brahmin family, almost every festival is celebrated. I remember my grandmother keeping fast on this day, doing pooja and buying some gold from the market. We used to enjoy the feast and other dishes for this day, and she would buy some kind of ornament for everyone. I still have those rings and anklets. (smiles)

How are you planning to celebrate Akshaya Tritiya’ this year?
These days, the younger generation hardly buys gold. But of course, I will buy something new on this auspicious day.

Of all these years of celebrating ‘Akshaya Tritiya’, which year has been the most memorable for you and why?
As I said earlier, my grandmother was into these traditions. I have few memories of going shopping with my cousins.

Also Read: Be a shining star like Madalsa Sharma 

Do you think that, over the years, the spirit and concept of ‘Akshaya Tritiya’ has changed?Yes, it has changed. There is no more fasting, pooja etc. But mostly people go out shopping. Gold shops mint money today. (laughs)

The general concept/ tradition of ‘Akshaya Tritiya’ states that you need to buy gold on that day, as it’s considered extremely auspicious. Do you buy gold in big quantities or just for namesake, to participate in the traditional custom?
As I said, I don't buy gold. I buy only usable stuff.

Are you well versed with the traditional mantra during ‘Akshaya Tritiya’? Will you be doing the pooja yourself for ‘Akshay Trithiya’?
No. I don't remember the mantra. I don't do pooja. I'm a spiritual person. I am also into a bit of Buddhism. I chant.

What’s going to be your dress code on the day of ‘Akshaya Tritiya’? What will you wear? No dress code for today. It is so hot. I prefer light cotton wear.

And towards evening, will you slip into partywear or is it going to be the traditional attire for you the whole day?
No party-sharty for me. I will relax and prepare for tomorrow's work.

The occasion of ‘Akshay Tritiya’ is always synonymous with gold. Can you name the three people in your life whom you consider ‘GOLD’?
My husband, my mother and my dad.

‘Akshaya Tritiya’ almost coincides with the auspicious festival of Eid. What are your plans for your tummy? Are you going to have your tummy have its way through Akshaya Tritiya sweets as well as Eid’s Sheer khurma and other delicacies? Or are you planning to eat everything in moderation as looking good and looking fit is the call of your profession?
I follow a strict regime. No sweets, no sheer kurmas please.

On a professional front, tell us as to what is keeping you busy these days?
My serial ‘Anupamaa ‘is keeping me quite busy plus occasionally a few music videos and promotional activities.

Today also happens to be ‘World Earth Day’. What's your take on that?
It’s time to take responsibility for all that is required to preserve the environment and work on protecting mother earth. The actress adds that no action is small. We can do our bit by avoiding plastic bottles, unnecessary packaging, water management etc. I feel that campaigns work. Swachchh Bharat has worked so well. It is also important to control population, avoid burning fuel, go as much green as possible. 

Carry on...
When you further your own education, you can help others to understand the importance of natural resources. Use less water, conservation of water is an extremely essential thing. The less water you use the less wastewater is generated that eventually ends up in the ocean. Switch to energy efficient lights as they reduce greenhouse gas emission. Switch off all the lights when you leave your house or workplace.

What needs to be done for the same?
We quickly revert to our old habits. We must own our errors and make amends, in my opinion. Before it's too late, let's rescue the earth. Every major change takes time, but we are getting there step by step. And it's been said that kindness starts at home. So, let's start by educating our family, friends, and ourselves. Making a difference may be as simple as sorting rubbish or always having reusable bags on hand.