In a candid dialogue about personal liberation and relationship dynamics, Bollywood celebrity Sushmita Sen has made it emphatically clear that marriage is not a priority in her life. Amidst the glamorous clutter and incessant curiosity of her fanbase, Sen maintains a stance centered on autonomy and companionship, transcending the traditional expectation to wed.
During a comprehensive interview with Film Companion, the acclaimed actress expressed her viewpoints on the institution of marriage. “I know the whole world thinks I should be concerned about, at this point in my life, settling down,” she remarked. “But I don’t. It’s not because I harbor any contempt for marriage; quite the contrary, I hold immense love and respect for it. It’s because companionship—dosti, friendship—is paramount to me. Respect and freedom within that friendship lay the foundation for any possibilities that may arise.” Sen’s reverence for marriage is inspired by admirable couples in her life, such as her ‘Aarya’ director Ram Madhvani and producer Amita Madhvani, whose relationship she admires greatly. Yet, for herself, she prioritizes freedom and the possibility of an organic evolution from friendship.
The narrative of Sen’s romantic life has captivated public attention, particularly her involvement with model-actor Rohman Shawl. The connection between Sen and Shawl blossomed in 2018 after a serendipitous interaction on Instagram. Although their romantic engagement has ceased as of 2021, her social media posts have reflected an enduring affection and commitment to their bond as friends. Following their split, brief speculations arose regarding Sen’s possible association with businessman Lalit Modi. However, these rumors were swiftly dispelled when Sen and Shawl were observed attending events together, displaying a level of intimacy indicative of a persisting connection.
In conversation with Mayank Shekhar for Mid-day’s Sit With Hitlist series, Sen delved into the tribulations of secretive dating, proposing that concealed relationships exhaust energy and provoke unnecessary societal pressure. “The issue never lies in dating, but in trying to keep it undercover,” she explained. As for responding to public speculation, Sen adopts a discretionary approach. She bears no obligation to address gossip but chooses to reveal aspects of her relationships when they warrant respect and acknowledgment.
Furthermore, Sen articulately addressed her aversion to insecurity in relationships, especially when it comes to potential partners being intimidated by her assertive persona. She clarified, “When a man shows signs of intimidation by me, my fascination instantly wanes because it translates to an absence of self-assurance.” Sen insists that loving someone of her stature requires self-love, a celebration of freedom, and an enduring sense of security—qualities she hopes to promote within others.
Sushmita Sen has been a trailblazer in both her cinematic journeys and her personal life, continuing to break molds and defy societal expectations. A single mother of two daughters, she has been a vocal advocate for individuality and self-sufficiency. Her nuanced perspective on marriage and relationships resonates with an evolving society that increasingly values personal choice over traditional compulsion. Despite the endless fascination with her love life and matrimonial prospects, Sen’s unwavering stance on independence and companionship persists. Thus, in the unfolding chapters of her life, Sen embraces the unpredictable nature of relationships, with freedom and friendship at the helm.
