‘Fate played Cupid’

Gaurav S. Bajaj plays the lead on Life OK’s new show Piya Rangrezz. But while his equation with his onscreen wife might not be the stuff of romantic dreams at present, in real life, the equation he shares with his better half Sakshi is as sweet and steady. In an interview, the couple discusses their love story and more:

How did you meet and who played Cupid?     
Gaurav: We met at a formal gathering between both our families — a typical arranged marriage type of meeting. Both our families were keen to get related. It was purely destiny’s call. Since then, I have started believing in destiny. Fortunately — and obviously — I played Cupid as Sakshi is very shy.

Sakshi: It’s destiny that brought us together, as we’re  from two different poles! Our families played Cupid. I’d say they were following what was written.

What was your first impression of each other?   
Gaurav: Sakshi is a very simple, down-to-earth, career-oriented girl. In fact, when we were talking about my profession and work, she was pretty much comfortable with everything.

Sakshi: Gaurav has stayed away from his family for almost 11 years but when I met him, it felt as though he had never moved out. His attachment, care and concern towards his family swept me off my feet.
 
What look do you feel suits each other the best?
Gaurav: She carries off everything so nicely and elegantly but I love it best when she wears a sari.

Sakshi: I like his rugged look more, which he is currently sporting in Piya Rangrezz.

How long did it take to bond with each other’s families and friends?   
Gaurav: Our families just bonded with each other so fast. Everything happened so quickly. Now I say, “Kuchh toh hai tujhse raabta”, that’s so true. It’s all due to the blessings of our family members and elders that things were so smooth and easy.

Sakshi: Actually, the day I met his family and friends, I never felt that I was meeting them for the first time. Everybody was so welcoming, loving and caring. It didn’t take much time at all to bond.

Tell us something about your partner that not many people know.
Gaurav: Sakshi is a fantastic cook. The saying — the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach — is so true. She is the second best cook in the world after my mom.

Sakshi: Gaurav is very religious. He has a wish list of temples that he wants to visit.

What’s the most romantic gesture your partner has made for you?        
Gaurav: A surprise dinner date planned at a farmhouse where everything was lit up with candles!

Sakshi: On my birthday, he decorated the bed with roses and made special arrangements at the beach in Santorini, where we were.