Genelia D'Souza takes Ganga dip on Vat Purnima, misses husband Riteish
Synopsis
On Vat Purnima, Genelia D'Souza took a dip in the Ganga and posted a video calling out to her 'navra' Riteish Deshmukh — a small, intimate moment from one of Bollywood's most genuinely adored couples that struck a chord far beyond celebrity social media.
Key Takeaways
Genelia D'Souza took a dip in the Ganga River on the occasion of Vat Purnima on 29 June .
She shared a video on social media expressing that she 'remembered' her husband Riteish Deshmukh , referring to him as her 'navra' (Marathi for husband).
The couple first met on the sets of 'Tujhe Meri Kasam' and married on 3 February 2012 in dual Maharashtrian and Christian ceremonies.
They have two sons, Riaan and Rahyl , and were last seen together in the Marathi film 'Raja Shivaji' .
Vat Purnima is observed by married women in Maharashtra , Gujarat , and northern India, with fasts and banyan tree worship for a husband's well-being.
Actress Genelia D'Souza marked the auspicious festival of Vat Purnima on 29 June with a heartfelt gesture — taking a dip in the sacred Ganga River and publicly expressing how much she missed her husband, actor Riteish Deshmukh. The moment, shared on her social media account, quickly resonated with fans of the beloved Bollywood couple.
What Genelia Shared
In a serene video posted to her social media, Genelia captured the fast-flowing Ganga as she immersed herself in its waters. Alongside the clip, she wrote: 'took a dip on #VatPurnima & remembered you - my navra @riteishd.' The word 'navra' is Marathi for husband, a nod to the couple's deep Maharashtrian roots.
Bollywood's Most-Loved Couple
Genelia and Riteish are widely regarded as one of Bollywood's most cherished pairs. The two first crossed paths on the sets of their debut film 'Tujhe Meri Kasam' in the early 2000s, a friendship that slowly deepened into romance. After nearly a decade of dating, they formalised their bond on 3 February 2012, exchanging vows in both Maharashtrian and Christian wedding ceremonies. The couple are parents to two sons, Riaan and Rahyl, and their social media presence — filled with playful banter, candid family moments, and videos featuring their pet dog Flash — has only added to their popularity.
What Is Vat Purnima
Vat Purnima is a significant Hindu festival observed primarily by married women in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and parts of northern India. Drawing from the legend of Savitri and Satyavan, the festival sees women fast, worship the banyan tree (Vat Vriksha), and perform rituals seeking long life, good health, and prosperity for their husbands. Genelia's Ganga dip on this occasion carried a deeply personal and devotional significance.
On the Work Front
The couple was last seen sharing screen space in the Marathi blockbuster 'Raja Shivaji', which further cemented their on-screen chemistry. Fans continue to await their next collaborative project.
Point of View
Missing her husband. That authenticity is increasingly rare in Bollywood's social media landscape, and it explains why moments like these travel further than most film promotions. The couple's ability to keep personal warmth visible without overexposure remains their most durable brand asset.
NationPress
29 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Genelia D'Souza do on Vat Purnima 2025?
Genelia D'Souza took a dip in the holy Ganga River on Vat Purnima and shared a video on social media saying she 'remembered' her husband Riteish Deshmukh, calling him her 'navra', the Marathi word for husband.
What is Vat Purnima and why is it celebrated?
Vat Purnima is a Hindu festival observed by married women, especially in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and parts of northern India. Women fast, worship the banyan tree, and perform rituals inspired by the legend of Savitri and Satyavan, praying for their husband's long life and good health.
When did Genelia D'Souza and Riteish Deshmukh get married?
Genelia D'Souza and Riteish Deshmukh married on 3 February 2012, in both Maharashtrian and Christian wedding ceremonies. They first met on the sets of their debut film 'Tujhe Meri Kasam' in the early 2000s.
What was the last film Genelia and Riteish appeared in together?
The couple was last seen together in the Marathi blockbuster 'Raja Shivaji', which was well received by audiences.
Who are Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh's children?
Genelia D'Souza and Riteish Deshmukh have two sons named Riaan and Rahyl. The family also has a pet dog named Flash, who frequently features in their social media posts.
