It is not often these days that a college romance fructifies into a wedlock. Corporate Citizen unlocks the story of love that has culminated into marriage, for we believe in the stability of a relationship and family unit. We bring to you real-life romances that got sealed in marriage
Just three years into their marriage, Kuldeep Vishwani and Bipasha Niyogi share a camaraderie that can only come from a romance grounded in a solid friendship. With all the optimism of today's generation, they believe you can have it all-a great career as well as a loving home as long as you are able to put in the effort and judgment to balance both set of priorities. As for cultural differences, they are to be celebrated, not fought over. Some insights...
When Kuldeep's parents first saw his girlfriend and intended bride to be, they were instantly charmed. This, despite the fact, that there had been some nervousness and initial misgivings on both sides, given their cultural differences-he's a Sindhi from MP, while she's a true-blue Bengali.
The affable and charming Bipasha says she made it a point to be herself. "I am what I am, and that is exactly how I presented myself to my would-be in-laws. I did not, for a moment, pretend to be who I am not," she says simply.
Kuldeep couldn't agree more. "Sure, we may belong to different communities. But marriage is all about understanding each other as well as each other's roots. Our wedding was a lot of fun for we combined both Sindhi and Bengali rituals," he says. "It helped bring both the families together."
It is precisely this maturity in matters big and small that keeps the relationship rooted.
This love story was first scripted on the campus of a renowned MBA college, where both were pursuing their MBA. Like most campus romances this one typically started out as a friendship based on common goals balancing completing one's studies and getting a good job. "He was always academically brilliant and he would help out with notes and stuff," shares Bipasha.
On his part, the friendly and social Kuldeep respected her maturity and poise. "She takes quick decisions but they are well-thought out. Plus, she was all-rounder, someone who participated in various extracurricular activities. I thought it was a great thing for both of us to complement each other. Too much of an outgoing attitude can land a couple in trouble. But her judgment and general outlook is a great foil to mine," he says.
In other words, opposites do attract-provided there is a shared value system. "We may not be similar person alities, but we make it a point to take every decision together," explains Bipasha.
One thing led to another and the relationship went from strength to strength. But there was no formal proposal from either side, just a quiet and mutual agreement to take things to another level.
"I first realized how much she meant to me when she went for her internship in Delhi. It had been the first time we had been separated in two years, and I missed her," he says.
Both families met, and liked each other, despite the cultural differences. Finally, the duo tied the knot in 2016 amidst much fun and revelry in a traditional ceremony that combined both the Bengali and Sindhi way of life.
"She takes quick decisions but they are well-thought out. Plus, she was all rounder, someone who participated in various extracurricular activities. I thought it was a great thing for both of us to complement each other"
-Kuldeep
Moods, moments and magic: the happy twosome
Post marriage they have chosen to make Pune their home as they love the city and the opportunities it presents for both a rewarding career and quality of life. As of today, Kuldeep works with Citibank as Affluence Acquisition Manager while Bipasha is employed with G4Secure Solutions Pvt. Ltd. as Verticals Sales Manager.
It's a hectic but happy time considerably helped by the fact that the MNCs they work for allow for a healthy work-life balance.
"Our work hours are 9:30 am to 6 pm. Plus, our holidays are similar, so that really helps us spend enough time together," they explain.
Quality time consists of watching movies and going out with other couples on weekends. "It's important to spend time together not only as a couple but also with one's friends," says Bipasha.
Twice a year, both look forward to taking two major holidays together. While the first vacation is with her family in West Bengal-usually during Durga Pooja time when the state comes alive with the fervor and color of the festivities the second is usually to a destination they haven't been before. "This way we get to spend good time with the extended family as well as accomplish our travel goals as well," says Kuldeep.
Like every couple, this one has their share of fights as wells but the trick is not to let matters escalate. "Clashes in any relationship are a given," says Bipasha. "But one has to take care to respond as per the situation. Different situations merit different responses. Fights happen. But one has to make the effort to understand what exactly has gone wrong and why. If one partner is angry, the other has to be the bigger person and tone down the argument," she shares.
Amidst all this, both root for trust as the cornerstone of any relationship. "If you trust each other, everything else follows," they say. "Trust your spouse's intelligence, capability, judgment and intention. It will serve the relationship well."
Yes, there have been adjustments post marriage considering the differences in the Bengali and Sindhi way of doing things. "Adjustment is crucial when it comes to bridging the gap and breaking the ice. Both sets of families need to embrace each other and accept each other. Respecting elders is the key to everything, even if it isn't always possible to do things their way," says Bipasha.
While planning a family is most definitely on the agenda, Bipasha hopes to continue working even after baby. "I may or may not take a break depending upon the need of the hour," she says. "But I am lucky in that my in laws are on hand and Kuldeep is most supportive of me in everything I choose."
Affirms Kuldeep, "Whatever she decides I will back her. As an MBA graduate, as an educated professional, she has the right to her dreams and aspirations. Actually these days, there is no difference in the preparatory paths undertaken by both so why should she lose out? Marriage is about teamwork," he rounds off.
By Kalyani Sardesai
