At least reality TV gives some back, compared to our depressing entertainment serials
As you must know, Rakhi Sawant did, ending the speculation of whether she would or wouldn't chose her "life partner" in front of millions. Resplendent in all the jewellery she could find, and a pink/gold confection, she garlanded her man in front of a 'live' TV audience. Elesh Parujanwala, everyone's favourite for the job of her bridegroom, then garlanded her. Dewy-eyed, they exchanged rings and 'I love you'. Now, you thought, now they're going to seal it with you-know-what and we'll get what we've waited a long time for: The television kiss. Alas, they didn't oblige us and the moment passed.
Rakhi Ka Swayamvar (NDTV Imagine) ended with platitudes, pledges and 'pandit' of ceremonies Ram Kapur assuring us that when the couple got married, we'd be there. Aha, that's the catch: While Rakhi has met her match, they want to get to know each other before, you know, marrying. Will they, won't they…?
What stood out in the show, other than the tall Elesh, is this new Rakhi — demure and ceaselessly mouthing homespun philosophy right out of the Ramayan on family values, traditions, the duties of a bahu etc. This wasn't the Rakhi we knew. Although she was dressed the part of Rakhi S, "item" girl, the Rakhi of Swayamvar was the girl next door. Which was for real? Was the show for keeps? Maybe that's for Elesh to find out.
