India, July 24 -- As people across Maharashtra celebrate Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, today, actor Shriya Pilgaonkar speaks to us about her family's rituals. "At home, we usually observe an upvas, where we eat permitted fasting foods like sabudana, rajgira, fruits, and other simple meals prepared especially for the day. Some people choose to observe a much stricter nirjala fast where they don't eat or drink anything," she shares.

The actor adds that the essence of the fast is to help one slow down and turn their attention inward. "It's about stepping away from your usual routine and distractions so you can focus on prayer and reflection," says the 37-year-old about the festival which marks the commencement of Lord...