Paresh Rawal says marriage is like war - ‘The only difference is you get to sleep with the enemy'

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal recently offered a humorous yet thought-provoking take on marriage during an interactive fan chat. Known for his sharp comic sense and nuanced performances, Rawal didn’t hold back when asked about his views on marital life. His witty responses stirred reactions online, especially his metaphor that compared marriage to a restaurant experience. “Getting married is like going to a restaurant,” he quipped. “You order something, and when you get the food, you prefer the dish the other guy ordered.” In another light-hearted moment, Rawal said, “Marriage is like a war. The only difference is in a marriage, you get to sleep with the enemy…”

These remarks came during a fan Q&A while promoting the play Shaadi@Barbaadi.com, in which he starred alongside his wife, Swaroop Sampat. The actor’s candid responses were filled with humour but also reflected the candid realities of long-term relationships.

Rawal and Sampat’s journey began in 1975 during a college play. Rawal, captivated by Swaroop, told his friend, “This girl will be my wife.” Despite this bold statement, they didn’t speak again for almost a year. When they did reconnect, their bond grew over mutual respect and admiration. Swaroop was impressed by his acting, and their relationship blossomed gradually.

After 12 years of dating, the couple tied the knot in 1987 in a quiet ceremony at Mumbai’s Lakshmi Narayan Temple. It was a simple gathering, attended only by close family and friends. Swaroop Sampat, who won the Miss India crown and starred in the iconic television show Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, later shifted her focus to education and child development. She gained recognition globally, becoming a finalist for the Global Teacher Prize in 2019. Throughout her journey, Paresh has remained supportive, attending her initiatives and encouraging her work in education.

The couple has two sons—Aditya, who has ventured into screenwriting, and Anirudh, who has worked as an assistant director. Their family continues to share a bond rooted in mutual growth, humour, and respect.