In Kishan’s own words
At the time, I was living the high life. I was a model and after that I loved my job with a wine company. Even though I was in glamour industry, I was not interested in love marriage. I feel arranged marriages are more successful. It is the basis of strong relationships. My parents’ marriage was also arranged by their families. Whenever I imagined the future, I saw myself in a version of my parents’ marriage - tied to someone I loved an acceptable-but-not-overwhelming amount, heat and heartbreak nowhere in sight.
The courtship
We met as per our parents wishes at my relative’s place. Then we visited Suman’s place to complete the formalities and fix the engagement. After engagement we met for the lunch at that time she mentioned that she wanted to continue her studies and that she was preparing for MCA entrance. I did not want to disrupt her studies and advised her to complete her studies. I told Suman that pursuing her studies will keep her engaged when I was out on tour or official work. After this we met couple of times and discussed sweet nothings. After marriage she completed her studies, something I am very proud of.
In our culture, marriage is about the coming together of two families, not just two individuals. So you need to find someone from a similar background, who suits your families, too. That can be hard.
Never been on a date
I got married to Suman in August 2002. We were kind and careful with each other. I informed my better half before marriage that my job demanded my presence during parties and that I would be returning home late in the night. To avoid unwanted issues at a later stage. It happened so quickly. Pretty soon Suman and I started traveling together, and learning how to do things together. Sometimes I would watch her, equally thrilled and unnerved by how much she was starting to matter to me.
Soon after our marriage we went to Tirupati and after seeking lord’s wishes, we headed towards Kerala. After our return Suman appeared for MCA entrance test, came out in flying colours and got a seat at Kasturba College in 2003. After Aryan’s birth she did not have time and had to discontinue her studies.
Suman and I don’t have anything in common but she has taken this in her stride. Her support is always there when I need it the most. I confide to her about my work related pressure and she is there to extend her view and also acts as stress buster. I cannot imagine a life without Suman. I take this opportunity express my gratitude to Suman for her unstinted support.
In 13 years of our marriage, I am thankful to to God and parents had they found Suman for me, and given me a different idea of what marriage could be. We have two lovely children -- son Aryan Raj and daughter Joshita Sidhi. We’ve had our share of challenges balanced with great moments of joy. A sure sign of a decision well made.