Dancer and actress Rukmini Vijayakumar is looking forward to the festive season, as it has always been a special time for her since she was a child. On the fourth day of Navratri, associated with the color orange, we talk to her about the festival, her childhood memories of it, and what the color orange, symbolizing enthusiasm and vigor, means to her. Recalling her fond memories of Navratri from her youth, she mentions setting up golu (a display of dolls) with her brother, cousins, and planting ragi seeds for fun. They would have friendly competitions to determine the best section of the display and the most impressive dolls. As a dancer, wearing vibrant costumes is a regular part of her profession. Does the color orange hold a special significance for her? "When I think of orange, I envision the sun, flowers, the tint my feet would turn after washing off alta (red dye), and the traces of henna. Orange also evokes thoughts of festivities, as it symbolizes happiness and unity. In Indian festivals, bright colors abound, with orange and yellow playing a significant role in any joyous celebration," Rukmini shares. She also mentions that orange makes her feel joyful yet determined, igniting a passion for achieving significant goals in life. Her mother interjects, noting that for her, orange symbolizes knowledge.

Remembering the joy of dancing during Navratri, Rukmini reveals,"Some of my favorite Navratri memories involve dancing Dandiya at night. My mother was quite strict when I was younger, rarely allowing me to go out at night except during Navratri. We would dance the night away, leaving me with sore feet and bandaged toes, but it was always worth it.""I still remember dancing joyously. However, Rukmini believes that the meaning of festivals has evolved over the years. She notes that there are fewer Dandiya nights now compared to her childhood. When asked about her fondest memory of the festive season, she shares, 'During Navratri, I used to attend dance classes at my teacher's house as Vijayadashami was a significant day for dancing. Now, my students come to my dance class to celebrate Vijayadashami, making it a special occasion for me.'"