disha Patani: when College Rituals Met Bollywood Glamour
Disha patani, the Bollywood star who captured hearts with her debut in “MS Dhoni: The Untold story,” quickly became a national sensation. While many admired her through posters and online declarations, a group of college students took their admiration to a unique level. They incorporated her into a Valentine’s Day ritual with a rather unusual goal.
Ms. Patani is known for her vibrant on-screen presence and action roles. She has established herself as a versatile actress, working alongside industry giants such as Salman Khan and Prabhas. Beyond acting, she is a fashion influencer, captivating her followers with her style.
the Virgin Tree Ritual
Hindu College, located in Delhi, is known for its Valentine’s day tradition involving what is called the “Virgin Tree,” or V-tree.This ritual involves selecting a prominent female actor to be worshipped, with the hope of ending their celibacy.
Did you know? The Virgin Tree ritual is a long-standing tradition at Hindu College, symbolizing the students’ aspirations and desires.
Each Valentine’s Day, the V-tree is adorned with balloons and condoms, and a photograph of the chosen actress is hung among its branches. In a past year, Disha Patani was selected for this honor.
The second and third-year hostellers have chosen her. We picked her after having a meeting. Along with Disha, one name that was also considered was of Nargis Fakhri, but since most of the guys liked Disha, we have chosen her as our Damdami Mai.
Vaibhav Singh, a second-year student, to Times of India
Damdami Mai: The Chosen Deity
The selected actress becomes known as “Damdami Mai,” a representative deity for the ritual.
Damdami Mai is usually the actress who has been popular in that particular year and who is also voted for by the most hostellers. Like always, we will have the puja on the morning of February 14.And a fresher will perform the puja as he will be the pandit for that day. As always, condoms will be used to decorate the Virgin Tree.
Vaibhav Singh, a second-year student, to Times of India
Pro Tip: the selection of Damdami Mai reflects the popular culture and preferences of the students each year.
Past “Deities”
Disha Patani is not the only Bollywood star to have been part of this tradition. Actresses such as Aishwarya Rai and Deepika Padukone have also been worshipped as Damdami Mai in previous years.
The belief is that those who offer prayers to this deity on Valentine’s Day will find a partner within six months and lose their virginity within a year.
Disha Patani’s Recent Projects
On the professional front, Ms. Patani appeared in “Kanguva” and “Kalki 2898 AD” in 2024. She is also slated to appear in “Welcome to the jungle,” alongside Akshay Kumar.
