Tassnim is a Ganesha bhakt

The actor will be paying her respects to the deity with husband Sameer.

Last week actor Tasneem Sheikh, as Mohini Virani in 'Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' (Star Plus), was busy shooting for the Ganesha pooja episode in the show.

Tasneem says, "I was not acting but genuinely involved in the rituals. I have always been a staunch devotee of Ganpati despite coming from a Muslim background. I have often visited the Siddhi Vinayak mandir on Tuesdays for darshan. At home I have two small Ganeshas. I'm very sentimental about them."

Tassnim, whose mother belonged to a Gujarati family, continues, "I look forward to the festival every year. I feel sad on the visarjan (immersion) day and bid a tearful farewell."

Will she visit any of the Ganpati mandaps in the city? "My husband Sameer and I have planned to visit the Lalbaugcha Raja sarvajanik Ganpati. I will also be attending the Ganesh pooja at Ronit Roy's (Mihir Virani) residence. I derive peace of mind from this deity."

Incidentally, Tassnim also visits churches and mosques with equal fervour. "I am a God-fearing person and respect all religions. I have been to Vaishnodevi temple, Haji Ali dargah and Mount Mary church too," she adds.