As the festive glow of Diwali spreads across the country, the film industry typically transforms into a high-stakes runway of curated fashion statements, bespoke designer couture, and synchronized social media photo dumps. Yet, amid the flurry of sequined sherwanis, heavy silks, and celebrity stylist consultations, breakout actor Ansh Duggal is championing a refreshing, grounded approach to the festival of lights. The young actor, who captured audience attention with his charismatic performance in the Alia Bhatt-backed coming-of-age romantic comedy Don't Be Shy and recently headlined Aanand L. Rai's theatrical rom-com Nakhrewaalii, revealed that when it comes to celebrating Diwali, personal ease and familial warmth matter far more to him than high fashion. Opening up about his holiday traditions in Mumbai, Ansh confessed that rather than succumbing to the rigid dictates of celebrity stylists or the relentless pressures of digital red carpets, his festive wardrobe remains anchored in simplicity, nostalgic heritage, and the timeless comfort of a classic kurta-pyjama.

Authenticity Over Trends: Why Comfort Trumps Designer Labels

In an era where emerging actors often feel compelled to make bold sartorial statements to gain algorithmic traction on social feeds, Ansh Duggal takes an unabashedly relaxed stance toward festive dressing. For him, ethnic Indian wear is not a strategic costume meant to impress digital audiences, but a natural expression of personal comfort and festive spirit. "I've always been confident about fashion and wearing what I want," Ansh shared while reflecting on his holiday plans. "I love wearing Indian clothes for Diwali, and I genuinely feel my best in a classic kurta-pyjama. I always keep my fashion simple. For me, fashion is strictly about what makes me feel good from the inside, not what looks trendy on a hanger."

The actor acknowledged that while entering the film industry inevitably introduces an entourage of professional stylists, image consultants, and designer partnerships, an artist should never surrender their individuality to external validation. "I do fashion for myself," he explained candidly. "Yes, since we are actors and artists, designers and stylists help us a little, and their creative input is valuable. But ultimately, it should be your choice, your personal opinion, and your comfort level. If I feel good wearing a particular outfit, then it is good. If someone else doesn't like it or finds it too ordinary, that is totally okay with me." This independent perspective is rare among newcomers navigating an image-obsessed industry, reflecting a maturity that prioritizes self-assurance over transient style fads.

Sentimental Style: Raiding His Father's Wardrobe for Diwali

Perhaps the most endearing glimpse into Ansh’s festive customs is his affection for heirloom clothing and vintage hand-me-downs. Long before vanity vans, bespoke tailoring sessions, and luxury wardrobe loans became part of his routine, Diwali was a straightforward, fuss-free affair centered on whatever comfortable ethnic wear was readily accessible at home. In fact, some of his fondest holiday memories involve borrowing classic ethnic garments straight out of his father's closet.

"Yes, I take styling help from professionals now for public events, but at the end of the day, it is entirely up to you to decide how you want to express yourself," Ansh noted with a smile. "All these professional stylists have come on board now because of the profession, but earlier, I used to wear whatever I could find at home on Diwali. Sometimes, I would even just pull out my father’s old kurta and wear that for the evening puja." For Ansh, slipping into a worn, breathable cotton or linen kurta handed down by his father carries far greater sentimental resonance and festive dignity than donning an expensive, heavily structured designer ensemble that restricts movement and feels artificial. The practice speaks to a broader cultural sentiment shared by millions of families across India, where festive attire often carries generational memories and emotional bonds.

Resisting the Instagram Trap: Embracing Food, Family, and Real Connection

In today's hyper-connected entertainment ecosystem, festival nights have increasingly morphed into digital performance arenas, where actors, influencers, and partygoers spend hours framing the perfect aesthetic photo before ever sitting down with their loved ones. Ansh is acutely aware of this modern phenomenon, yet he consciously chooses to detach himself from the digital competition. For him, the true essence of Diwali lies in shared laughter, feasting on traditional homemade delicacies, and spending uninterrupted hours in the company of close family, childhood friends, and siblings.

"I never used to pay attention to all this social media spectacle, and I try not to now either," Ansh remarked thoughtfully. "Diwali is a sacred time when one is supposed to eat, drink, laugh, and spend quality time with family and friends. When I wasn't working in films, I didn't pay any attention to my clothes. I would simply take a shower, get ready in a comfortable pair of clothes, and step out to celebrate with my siblings and friends. Today, many people might feel the urge to post pictures in glamorous, fashionable clothes on Instagram, but I refuse to take any pressure from that digital rat race. I appreciate the platform, but I prefer to use social media primarily to promote my cinematic work, not to validate my personal life." By establishing healthy boundaries between his public career and his private holiday traditions, the young actor protects the genuine spirit of Diwali from commercial performance.

From OTT Acclaim to Mainstream Screens: A Grounded Newcomer

Ansh Duggal's unassuming demeanor stands in striking contrast to his rapidly rising profile within Hindi cinema. The young talent made a splash on digital screens in Don't Be Shy, a young-adult romantic comedy produced by Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt under their progressive banner, Eternal Sunshine Productions. Starring alongside newcomers Aarushi Bajaj, Bianca Arora, and Piyush Khati, Ansh earned praise for his natural screen presence, effortless charm, and ability to connect with contemporary youth audiences. The film's critical reception positioned him as one of the most promising fresh faces to emerge from the digital streaming landscape.

Building on that initial acclaim, Ansh stepped directly into the theatrical arena with Nakhrewaalii, an Aanand L. Rai presentation directed by Rahul Shanklya. Headlining the quirky, small-town romantic comedy alongside Pragati Srivastava, Ansh demonstrated commendable versatility, tackling comedic timing and emotional beats with equal confidence. Having collaborated with respected industry figures such as Alia Bhatt and Aanand L. Rai early in his career, many young actors might have adopted an air of celebrity exclusivity. Instead, Ansh remains anchored in the values of his upbringing, demonstrating that professional ambition does not require abandoning personal humility.

Redefining Celebrity Culture: The Charm of Everyday Simplicity

Ansh Duggal's candid reflections on Diwali strike a deep chord in a culture increasingly weary of manufactured celebrity perfection. In an age dominated by airport looks, gym spottings, and sponsored holiday wardrobes, his willingness to celebrate in an unpretentious, comfortable kurta—or even his father’s vintage attire—feels both relatable and refreshing. His perspective offers a timely reminder of what Diwali was always meant to represent: an occasion to slow down, cast away superficial pretenses, honor familial roots, and bask in the warm, gentle light of togetherness.

As the festive weekend unfolds across Mumbai and homes throughout the country, Ansh Duggal will be celebrating the festival of lights away from the glare of paparazzi flashbulbs. With a plate of festive sweets, the company of lifelong friends, and a comfortable, simple kurta that allows him to move freely, the young actor proves that genuine style is not about following trends—it is about staying true to who you are.