Despite family opposition for seven years, Rakshanda Khan and Sachin Tyagi stuck with each other. Their love kept getting deeper and continues to grow stronger even today. The Free Press Journal caught up with the actress for an exclusive chat.
Excerpts:
When and how did you first meet Sachin?
Sachin had come to Mumbai to become a singer and his album had just got launched. We met when we did a show together in Indonesia where he was singing and I was compèring.
Who played Cupid?
At that time no one. But later on we started hanging out together and were friends for many years. During this period every single person who met us used to say how much we complemented each other.
What was your initial reaction when you saw him ? Did the bells begin tolling immediately or did that happen later?
(Laughs) No, not at all, no bells tolling, no alarms ringing. It was fairly professional. Like I said for a few years we enjoyed each other’s company; we were great friends. He had this crazy wry sarcastic humour which I thought was so cool.
Did you guys exchange numbers?
Yes we had to coordinate over scripts and rehearsals.
What was the ice-breaker?
We had to go for a dinner as part of the event and ended up seated next to each other. Throughout the dinner this man had some crazy comments about everyone at the table and all I was doing was trying to not choke on my food while laughing.
After you came home did you keep thinking about him and thought about meeting up?
Well not really. But then we did meet up again. And kept on meeting and all our friends became one common circle so it was a big circle of friends hanging out together.
Who took the initiative to fix a date?
Every initiative in this relationship has to be credited to Sachin. Till today.
Where did you go for the first date?
Most of our initial dates were long drives. Sachin loves to drive and all you have to do is mention the word drive and he is ready to go at least a 100 kms. I’ve gone on the most fascinating drives with him, enjoying fabulous weather and him singing.
What did he bring for you on your first date like flowers / chocolates, etc?
The most beautiful red rose I have ever received.
Who said I love you first?
Like I said, every first in this relationship is credited to Sachin. All the hard work was done by him.
How many times in a day would you speak with him ?
I think I lost count. We were constantly speaking to each other. And thankfully, that goes on till today. We always have things to talk about.
Who is more possessive between the two?
I am, but I think finally with time I’m growing up.
Who is the funnier one between the two?
He would say it’s me, but I know it’s him. He is extremely quick witted.
Who is the cleanliness freak between the two?
Hands down my husband is the winner. On days that he is not shooting we all find reasons to leave the house because we know aaj safai abhiyan hoga.
Who is the more short tempered one?
I think that’s a flaw we both have. Both of us are a little hot headed. The only difference is once we got married, Sachin calmed down a lot. My temper stays the same.
Would you fight during your courtship days? What were the fights about and who would say sorry first?
We fought a lot during our courtship but my husband is brilliant at making up. He just won’t let you stay angry. He was always the first one to make up. I guess I have quite the ego when it comes to saying sorry.
Who proposed marriage?
Sachin was always very clear that this wasn’t a passing friendship or relationship. He knew he wanted it to culminate in marriage.
Did you face any opposition when you guys decided to marry?
Loads and loads… For seven years!
How has your relationship changed since the boyfriend-girlfriend days to being husband and wife and now parents?
A lot has changed, tempers have cooled down, insecurities have settled. God has been kind. Life has been great. The highlight of it all has been becoming parents. For me, it has been the zenith of a journey.
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