‘It was not love at first sight’

We caught up with television couple Rithvik and Asha and prodded them about things that they love and dislike about each other among other things.

Tell us how the two of you met. Was it love at first sight?
Asha: It wasn’t really love at first sight. We met on the sets of Pavitra Rishta, became friends and eventually fell in love.
Rithvik: It was far from the ‘first sight’.

What was your first impression of each other?
A: I thought he was a little snobbish and as far as I know, he thought I am jhalli pagal (mad cap)!
R: I thought that she spoke a lot! She's very friendly and used to get along with everyone on the sets.

What are the things you appreciate about each other? Are there things you’d like to change about each other?
A: He is very caring and loves me a lot. He is my family here in Mumbai. What I don’t like about him is that he needs to be reminded to cut his nails!
R: At the risk of sounding annoying, I love everything about her — she’s loving, honest, beautiful and pure at heart. Anyone who knows her, knows well that there is no second side to her. She falls in love with everyone she meets!

Which has been your most memorable scene together and why so?
A: For me, it was the airport scene where I realise that I love him too and rush to him to find out that he hasn’t flown out of the country yet. It was raining and I was running to the airport to confess my love to him.
R: It is the same for me. Everyone who watched the show thoroughly enjoyed it.

What is the sweetest gesture your partner has done for you?
A: On my birthday, he planned my entire day and made sure I had a good time throughout the day.
R: She knows that I really like okra (bhindi) and that I love to see her in Indian attire. So she wore a lovely peach salwar kameez and cooked bhindi for me. It was great coming home to see her like that.

What is the most flattering comment or compliment that you have received from your fans as a couple?
A: That we’re made for each other.
R: A couple of fans made a little fan club for us where they wrote that we’re a couple that emerges stronger from tough situations. It was very sweet thing to say.