Elesh: Don't mind being called Mr Rakhi Sawant

Elesh Parujanwala -- the NRI businessman from Canada -- has managed to win over Rakhi Sawant's affections, as the two got engaged in a grand ceremony, aired on national television, last weekend.

The 30-year-old businessman is clearly excited about bringing Rakhi home to his parents. He shares his happy moments with Rajul Hegde.

How does it feel to be officially get engaged to Rakhi Sawant?

There is a sense of contentment. I feel relaxed (smiles).

Since both of you have decided to spend more time with each other, will you stay in Mumbai or take her back to Toronto?

I will be in Mumbai for next two-three years because I have just started my business here. Before we get married, I want her to know about my lifestyle, family and friends and vice versa. We need to do a lot of adjustments but one thing is for sure that though Rakhi is an independent person, I want to be a man and take care of my wife. I am trying to get her a visa to attend my sister's wedding on August 16 in Toronto. I hope to see her there as part of my family. If she can make it, I would love to take her on a weekend getaway of sorts.

Why are you delaying the wedding?

From day one on the show, I have told Rakhi that I won't be able to show what I'm all about in such a short span. I need to spend more time with her off camera, without make-up and sets. I need to know what her routine is like, whether she is a morning person etc.

I am setting up my company in Mumbai and I want to give it some time to establish. Rakhi wanted to marry me right away but I chose not to take that step. The decision was mine that we give time to each other before marriage.

But what if you realise that you're not meant for each other after a few days?

I don't want to think anything negative about it. My feelings are genuine. I have made up my mind and will stick to my decision. Whether it will take 10 days, a week or a year, I am committed to her. And I have no reason to think why it would not happen.

Why have you shifted your base to Mumbai?

India is the most booming country of the world. Why wouldn't I want to be part of it?

What business do you have?

My partner and I have started a film academy called KIFA (Keon International Film Academy). Our academy is very young and the mission is to create a vibrant academic and resource centre where students get the opportunity to learn theoretical and experiential filmmaking. The focus is to increase the level of skills and competencies integral to the film and television industry, enriching the field and developing the potential of those determined to make a career in this area of work.

Are you jealous of Rakhi's popularity?

I am not insecure.

When did you fall in love with Rakhi during the course of the show?

Rakhi was doing home visits to Hrishikesh and Delhi. I was alone off the sets, and had a lot of time to think about things. I was watching the Michael Jackson [memorial] ceremony. He is my biggest inspiration and I knew that he is Rakhi's inspiration too. At that moment, I don't know what happened. I just wished Rakhi was there with me. I really missed her and realised that I had feelings for her.

Do you have a problem with Rakhi working after marriage as an item girl?

When I registered for this show, I knew who she is and what work she does. I knew exactly what I was getting into. I have my own career and want to establish myself and she has her own.

As a dancer, if she is able to carry off an item number well, it's great. Work is worship. Why should I have any problem if she works as an item girl after marriage?

How did you like the idea of Rakhi having a swayamvar and that it was aired on national television?

It's simply amazing to be showcased on television. Yes, it's a little embarrassing to say your feelings on national television. When I entered the show, I was a bit apprehensive, as I did not know whether everything in the show would be genuine or not. But as the days passed by, I was assured and my doubts were put away. I got to believe that 15 contestants would walk out while one lucky suitor would remain who would marry Rakhi.

Why do you want to marry Rakhi Sawant?

Well, I was at the right place at the right time. Honestly, when I registered for the show, I knew who Rakhi Sawant is. After I entered the show, whatever I have observed about Rakhi has been positive. She has a positive spin to whatever she has to say and do. Her genuine concern and love for people are certain aspects that can make a man happy.

Were you uncomfortable at any point in the show?

When I entered the show, I was in a state where I had to find out whether Rakhi was good for me or not. Also, I had to see whether there was any catch in the show. I had a defensive shield on at the beginning, and wanted to gauge how real the show is.

When I got over this fear, I believed that I had a big chance of making it there. I have seen Rakhi at the top of her emotions; I have seen her in her low phase too. She has been in the best of behaviour both on and off camera. Seeing all this, I dropped my guard and got into the process of winning her trust.

Did Rakhi give any hints that she had selected you on the show?

No. Throughout the show, she kept me on my toes.

Have you told her that you wish to meet her family?

I respect her decision.

Does Rakhi fit the bill of your dream girl?

Yes. She is a genuine girl, a topper in all the fields of spirituality and family values. I respect her a lot.

You may be known as Mr Rakhi Sawant. How do you look at that?

I don't bother about those tags. But she will be called Mr Parujanwala.