Ashlesha Sawant and Sandeep Baswana: Marriage is not the goal here, being happy and peaceful is

It has been one beautiful long-lasting relationship. and , who have been together for 22 years, say that their bond has only become stronger over time. In a candid chat, the two talk about their and what makes it tick.”

‘I wanted to break up after living in for a few months’
They met on the sets of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi in 2002. Sandeep recounts, “Since her home was far away from the set, she used to spend a few nights at my home during the week. And those few nights became months and we realised that we were happy with each other.”
But he was very young and wasn’t sure whether he was ready for commitment. He says, “In fact, after a few months of living in, I was scared and wanted to break up (smiles). But Ashlesha pointed out how we always had the option to separate if things didn’t work out. Gradually, our bond got stronger and then the thought of separation never crossed our minds.”

‘Our happiness is not based on a big fat wedding’

The couple reveals how their families would like them to get married, but they have a different take on it. Ashlesha says, “Our happiness is not based on wearing a mangalsutra or having a big fat wedding. But, yes, maybe for our parents, we might just tie the knot one day. They have always been happy for us, so why not do this for their happiness?”
Sandeep says they may suddenly take the plunge one fine day, adding, “Marriage is not the goal here, being happy and peaceful is.”

‘We don’t understand when couples talk about giving each other space’
Ashlesha says, “It’s important for a couple to have quality time with each other. Some people talk about giving each other space... we find that bizarre!”
Sandeep adds, “When two individuals are happy with themselves, they bring each other happiness. Secondly, we don’t take each other for granted. If I have had a bad day, it does not give me the right to take it out on her and vice versa. If you are living with someone, the love and care should be effortless. Both of us are content in life.”

On the work front...
Sandeep, who was last seen in the TV show Dil Diyan Gallan, recently wrote and directed the film Haryana. Ashlesha played the lead in it. On TV, she was last seen in Anupamaa.