MUMBAI: His female fans might be a bit upset with the news, but it’s true that TV’s favourite actor, Ssharad Malhotra, is getting hitched to Ripci Bhatia, a Delhi-based fashion designer, next month. The two were introduced to each other by Ssharad’s sister, who is a designer herself. Preparations for the big, fat Punjabi wedding are already on in full swing. And it all started with a puja at his residence in Kolkata.

The wedding will take place on the third week of April in Mumbai. And it’s expected to be a gala affair with celebrations spread over two days—including the haldi, mehendi and sangeet—followed by a gurdwara wedding the next day and Hindu pheras in the evening.

‘I am a bit nervous, but that’s obvious. In the last 12 years, I have been married seven or eight times on screen, but this is going to be real. So, I’d say, I am more excited now (laughs). My parents are also very happy. What more could I ask for? My mother and sister have already started planning for the functions. Since Ripci is a Sikhni, there will be dholwallahs playing at our wedding. I have also arranged for a top line-up of DJs, one of whom is a friend from Kolkata. My mom, dad, sister, and brother-in-law will all shake a leg that day. Friends from the TV fraternity will definitely be a part of my wedding functions in Mumbai. It’s going to an English-themed reception.’

The actor, who has always come across as marriage-phobic, added, ‘I do believe that marriages are made in heaven. I have had two relationships before. For me, commitment was never an issue. But whenever the topic of marriage cropped up, I’d start stepping back. Although there have been a lot of accusations, I have had great regard for my exes even after the relationship ended. This time, I’d call myself plain lucky to have found a partner and a friend in Ripci. It’s her simplicity that attracted me the most. She never asked any question about my past relationships. Also, I realised that it was time I settled down. I can’t keep running away from marriage all my life, can I? So, I decided to take the plunge. Ripci is beautiful, independent, and the most level-headed person I have ever met. Given our work schedule, timing is always a matter of concern, which leads to a lot of problems. I am glad Ripci understands the daily grind of an actor.’

Any special wedding gift he has chosen for Ripci? To this, the actor said, ‘I am the best gift for her’ (laughs).

When quizzed about his honeymoon plans, Ssharad said, ‘While I love the hills, Ripci loves the sea. So, we are yet to finalize our honeymoon destination (laughs). After the wedding, I’ll be back to work. Maybe we will plan something in the next few months.’