Mumbai, November 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Actor Babil Khan has joined the annual Diwali conversation about the familiar soan papdi box that seems to circulate from one household to another, saying the thought and goodwill behind a gift matter more to him than the present itself.
Describing the sweet box as the “rock-hard, neon-glazed” parcel that appears to have travelled through several homes before reaching its final recipient, Babil said he has never been particularly good at pretending to like a gift.
“I’m terrible at pretending my face gives away everything within half a second,” he said, adding that he has come to appreciate the effort and good wishes behind even an unexpected or unsuitable present.
He said that while a gift might make him smile inwardly, his gratitude for the warmth and intention behind it remains genuine.
The actor also spoke about the quieter traditions that make Diwali special for him. Every year, he spends a couple of unhurried hours with his mother, setting up traditional earthen diyas with mustard oil and cotton wicks.
Babil described the ritual as meditative, particularly the fragrance of wet clay mixed with oil, and said it was a tradition he made sure to follow every year.
Reflecting on what he wants to leave behind and welcome this Diwali, the actor identified overthinking and self-doubt as habits he hopes to move beyond.
He said the pressure to feel adequate in every professional and personal setting can weigh heavily on an actor, and he wants to approach his creative journey with greater trust.
Babil hopes to welcome more stillness, fearlessness in vulnerability, laughter with loved ones and the confidence to take artistic risks without being afraid of failure.
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