Marital Blitz

It is not often that celebrities — or even micro celebs — drop in at Vijay Nagar near Delhi University North Campus. So when Rakhi Sawant made a fleeting visit to check out the family of a contestant she has chosen on her TV show Rakhi ka Swayamvar,the quiet neighbourhood was suddenly abuzz.

Manas Katyal,22,is one of the few contenders for Sawant’s heart and hand on the reality show where she hunts for her husband. Katyal’s home was suddenly swarming with friends and relatives,eager to catch a glimpse of his could-be star wife. “I’m very confident she’s going to pick me,” said Katyal,standing alongside his banker parents who were ready with the traditional arti to welcome Sawant. Katyal’s sister Mannat was there holding a bouquet. The neighbours chipped in by dancing wildly to the dhol,when Sawant finally emerged from a Honda City,resplendent and every bit the blushing bride in a green sari and chunky jewellery.

Katyal graduated in engineering from Rohtak University last year and is currently working as an events’ producer in Mumbai. “I went through many grilling sessions to get here,” said Katyal,referring to the questions Sawant asks the men on the show. His grandmother,meanwhile,was all smiles when questioned about the girl. “Rakhi seems nice. I hope she fits in with us,” said Bansi Devi,75. Other members of the family seemed equally enthusiastic. The mom-in-law-might-be had no qualms about Sawant. “She is older than my son but I don’t care as Lord Krishna and Radha’s match was also similar,” said Suman Katyal. Now the big question is will Manas be Rakhi’s Mr Right?