The bond between two of Bollywood's most iconic actresses, Kajol and Jaya Bachchan, has strengthened over the years through their shared love for tradition and devotion. Every year, the two make it a point to meet at the Durga Puja pandal, a practice that has become somewhat of a ritual for them. This year was no different, as the two stars were once again spotted together at the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal on Thursday morning, a site long associated with their families.
However, amidst the sacred celebrations, a video has surfaced from the pandal, which has rapidly gone viral across social media platforms. The footage shows Kajol visibly displeased, her expressions capturing her growing irritation towards a group of devotees who were whistling inside the pandal. Such behaviour is often considered inappropriate within the sanctity of a religious space, and Kajol did not hesitate to voice her discomfort. In the video, she can be heard questioning who was responsible for the whistling, her annoyance evident. In another clip, Kajol is seen taking matters into her own hands, directing the crowd to clear a path after offering their prayers, ensuring the sacred proceedings were carried out with the reverence they deserve.
This reaction from Kajol has stirred a flurry of comments online, with many finding amusement in her candid response. Social media, often quick to poke fun, was flooded with remarks about the incident. One commenter observed, "Both are equally rude," referring to Kajol and Jaya Bachchan. Another, more humorous, quipped, "Someone should tell them the whistling is by the person managing the crowd." While a third person added, "Kajol is becoming more beautiful, but she’s also getting more irritating by the day."
Despite the light-hearted mockery, the North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal holds immense significance for Kajol and her family. Organised by the Mukerji family, which includes her cousin Rani Mukerji, the pandal is an annual hub for worship and festivity. The two cousins traditionally lead the welcoming of the Durga idol, playing hosts to not only their family but also a wide array of visitors from across Mumbai. Over the years, the pandal has witnessed a number of location changes. What was once celebrated at the Tulip Star Hotel has, since the sale of the property, found its new home at the SNDT Women’s University grounds in Juhu.
Among those who regularly visit the pandal are notable celebrities from the entertainment industry. This year, as in years past, the festivities were graced by familiar faces such as Sumona Chakravarti, Vatsal Seth, Ishita Dutta, Tanisha Mukerji, and Sharvari, all gathering to seek blessings from Goddess Durga.