Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor, who is currently undergoing medical treatment in New York City, is counting the days to be back in Mumbai as he hopes to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with his family on September 2. Not to forget, his birthday on September 4 is another reason for him to be back home by next weekend. "Celebrating Ganpati is a family tradition. So, I am hoping to be part of it," he told a leading daily. Currently in the last leg of his treatment, Rishi terms his New York stay as "an extended holiday" but claims to miss Indian food. "I miss eating pomfret; it's not available here. I also miss the soft homemade chapatis. You get all sorts of naan and rotis, but those soft chapatis made of chakki ka atta are something else," he added.

Since he has been stationed in the Big Apple for over ten months now, he is often greeted by fans from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. "Taxi drivers don't take money, they only want a selfie with me. Once I was at a restaurant, which had several Bangladeshi waiters. Each of them came and greeted me. One of the American staff members thought I was an ex waiter there, which is why the staff was talking to me. They were so embarrassed, but I laughed all the way back home," he candidly revealed.

RECOMMENDED READ: Rishi Kapoor relives the magic of 'Bobby' in New York

Last but not the least, the actor admitted that the tough time during his battle with the Big-C has taught him the virtue of patience. "I have learnt to remain calm with my family and fans. I owe it to them; they have given me so much love and sent good wishes. Neetu has been my rock and has shouldered all the responsibilities. So has been my family, who would drop in to give me the strength to battle my illness," he said as he promised to dive into work once again, as soon as he is back. "I have to complete The Body [with Emraan Hashmi]. They have been gracious enough to wait for me. There are two more films in the pipeline," Rishi signed off by saying.

(Source: Mid-Day)