Marriage: Unchained melody

You're either married or happy, right? "Rubbish," says former model Feroze Gujral. Married when she was barely 17 to architect Mohit Gujral, she says it's all about a state of mind. "I modelled even through my two pregnancies! I think couples self-impose restrictions on themselves, and hence get frustrated," she adds.

But with lifestyles changing, more women out working and commitment phobia on the rise, an increasing number of youngsters are opting out of tying the knot, at least whilst they are in their prime. "Which is very foolish, as they are losing out on the magic of doing amazing things together with their spouse or for each other," says Feroze.

Jewellery designer Farah Khan agrees. Married to her best friend DJ Aqueel Ali for the last seven years, she reveals the duo is not experiencing the proverbial seven-year itch. "We're still madly in love and lust with each other," she discloses.

She attributes their wedded bliss to, among many other factors, her impulsive streak. "The key is to be unpredictable and not let boredom set in. Also, women need to look and feel good, because let's face it — what other men find attractive, your own man will find more attractive!" she avers.

Interestingly, their views are endorsed by two happily married men. Yup, you heard right! "Of course life changes, but you can't keep partying with your buddies forever. Marriage is the beginning of new, exciting relationships," says TV actor Rohit Roy, who is married to TV star Mansi Joshi-Roy. "After shooting for several hours, I would rather spend time with my wife and daughter than go out. And it's all my choice, no one is forcing me to do anything" he stresses.

Photographer Subi Samuel who got hitched last year, in fact, recommends this bond to every one of his friends. "Bina (his wife) has brought stability in my life; I've calmed down so much because of her," he says. As far as his freedom or career getting curbed, he says it's all a misconception. "She trusts me completely and vice versa and I guess, at the end of the day, that's what keeps things going the right direction," he informs. &nbs p;

Psychotherapist Varkha Chulani sums it up, "Those who go into marriage thinking life will remain the same are obviously the ones who end up bitter. It's important for couples to realise that with the added responsibilities of the new relationship come many, many perks."