Veteran filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, the man who gave us timeless family sagas like Hum Aapke Hain Koun and Vivah, is back—but this time, he’s flipping the script. At the grand launch of his new TV show Manpasand Ki Shaadi, held with much fanfare, Barjatya revealed that this isn’t your typical Rajshri production. This one’s got a twist of tradition, a shot of rebellion, and a big heart.
Barjatya described the show as “a different thought, a different set-up,” and explained the central theme beautifully: “In our society, love marriages often lack family support, and arranged marriages might lack love. So what if we empower our children to choose their own partner—with love, with family, and with full understanding?” If that’s not the most wholesome mic drop on Indian matchmaking, what is?
The story centers around Aarohi Shinde, played by Esha Suryawanshi, a bright young woman from the rural village of Vitthal. Her family, far removed from modernity, runs a cow-shelter and believes in age-old traditions. Aarohi, however, has other plans. Studying in Indore and brimming with ambition, she challenges her pre-arranged match and requests a month to find her manpasand (preferred) partner—cue the drama, emotion, and modern-day dilemma that will unfold on screen.
Opposite Esha is Akshun Mahajan, playing the male lead in what promises to be a slow-burn romance with depth and realism. The supporting cast includes seasoned names like Milind Gawli, Suchitra Bandekar, Avinash Wadhwan, and Gungun Uprari, making this a well-rounded ensemble with both gravitas and freshness.
Set to premiere on August 11 on Colors TV and JioHotstar, Manpasand Ki Shaadi is shaping up to be Barjatya’s most progressive narrative yet. It’s not just about love—it’s about choice, courage, and navigating the fine line between values and self-expression. And in a country where weddings are still often more about families than couples, this show might just start a much-needed conversation.