Urmila Matondkar Prioritises Public Safety Over Festival Visits This Ganesh Chaturthi

For the actress Urmila Matondkar, Ganesh Chaturthi has always been a memorable time in Mumbai, filled with vibrant pandals and devotional fervour. This year, however, professional obligations prevented her from attending the city’s celebrations.

Matondkar posted an old festive photo on her Instagram feed, accompanied by a simple prayer: “Ganpati Bappa Morya. I have no extensive wishes this year; I only ask that Bappa keeps everyone safe and gives them reasons to smile.”

She added that her hope is to empower those battling personal challenges, and she expressed regret for missing the chance to view the iconic pandals. The star sent heartfelt wishes to Mumbai’s residents and fans, emphasizing that her foremost desire is collective well‑being.

Launching her career as a child artist with "Masoom", Urmila’s breakthrough arrived with the 1995 blockbuster "Rangeela", sharing screen space with Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff. Her subsequent portfolio includes titles such as "Judaai", "Daud", "Chamatkar", "Satya", "Kyon?", "Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya", "Jungle", "Bhoot", "Pinjar", "Ek Haseena Thi" and "Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara".

The actress’s recent message underscores a shift from personal festivity to a broader concern for safety and happiness, resonating with the core values of Ganesh Chaturthi.