Why Vidya Balan loves this time of the year

Actress Vidya Balan says she loves back-to-back festival period starting from Ganesh Chaturthi in September to Dussehra in late October to the ongoing Diwali season.

"I really like it when these festivals come one after the other. The climate is also quite good starting from rainy season during Ganapati to the hot climate during Navratri and the beginning of winters during Diwali. It's just that the transition is lovely."

"I always love this part of the year. There are lights hung everywhere, people are going for shopping, there is an energy, enthusiasm and hope among everyone," Vidya said in an interview.

When asked about her Diwali plans, she said her husband-producer Siddharth Roy Kapur is out of town and hence she would celebrate it with her family.

"Every year, we have a simple celebration for Diwali and it's always a family affair. We go to the temple, wear new clothes and go to give clothes and gifts to near and dear ones. We spend a lot of time wishing each other on phones through messages, and in the evening we light diyas," she said.

Vidya also says that she lights just one "phooljhadi" as she's not fond of firecrackers.

"Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the country crossing regional as well as religious boundaries. The celebration is spread over numerous days with events such as 'Dhanteras', 'Lakshmi Pooja', and 'Bhau-beej' ensuring the festive spirit stays over few days," she said.

"There is a lot of hustle and bustle as there are many people visiting us, and that's where the fun lies. The true wishes from the heart emerge and Diwali is just about wishing each other well," she said.

"I'd like to wish all viewers the best wishes for Diwali. I hope that light is present in your lives forever. Have a safe Diwali and Happy New Year," added Vidya.

The actress was last seen in the romantic film "Hamari Adhuri Kahani".