This Ugadi marks a new beginning in our lives: PV Sindhu & Venkata Datta Sai

For ace shuttler PV Sindhu and her husband Venkata Datta Sai, this Ugadi holds special significance — it is their first as a married couple. Celebrating in their new Bengaluru home, the duo has invited both their families, embracing togetherness and tradition. In an exclusive conversation with Hyderabad Times, they talk about their excitement, cherished festival memories, and how they are balancing celebrations with Sindhu’s demanding sporting schedule.
‘Celebrating Ugadi in our new home feels very special’
“This Ugadi is extra special as we celebrate it in our new home in Bengaluru. We’ve invited both our parents, making it a truly special family gathering,” Sindhu shares. With her packed sporting schedule often keeping her away from home, Sindhu values these rare moments of togetherness. “Ugadi has always been about family for me, and now, with Datta and our families coming together, it feels even more meaningful. We’re grateful to have this time to celebrate, reminisce, and create new memories,” she says.

‘Ugadi pachadi is not just about taste, but the emotions it represents’
Ugadi pachadi, a symbolic dish representing life’s myriad emotions, holds a deep place in Sindhu’s heart. “Each ingredient signifies an emotion — sweetness, bitterness, and everything in between — just like life. This Ugadi marks a new chapter, my first after marriage.” While her rigorous training schedule has kept her from preparing it herself, Sindhu cherishes the warmth and memories it brings. “It’s about more than just taste; it’s about the laughter around the dining table and the blessings we share as a family.”
‘We’re creating our own traditions, together’
Sindhu and Sai are crafting new traditions while honouring old ones. “One of the most beautiful aspects of marriage is bringing two families together, and that’s exactly what we’ve done this year,” they share. Adding to the festivities is the presence of close friends who will be observing Ramzan the following day. “It’s a beautiful time of togetherness, with different cultures and traditions coming together,” Sindhu shares. “And of course, it’s going to be extra special enjoying Ugadi pachadi one day and biryani the next! (laughs)”

‘Festivals are about food, family, and fun!’
For Sindhu, Ugadi is synonymous with food and cherished family moments. “Garelu, bobbatlu, pulihora — these are my absolute favourites!” she laughs. Reminiscing about childhood, she shares, “Growing up, Ugadi meant watching my mother and grandmother prepare these dishes, filling the house with amazing aromas. No matter how busy things got, there was always time to sneak in a taste before the meal was officially served.”
“Food is always at the heart of our celebrations! We may not be the best chefs yet, but we’re making new memories by enjoying our festive favourites — starting with Ugadi pachadi and, the next day, indulging in some delicious biryani.” – Venkata Datta Sai