Rajeev Khandelwal Opens Up About Fear of Acceptance in Maharashtra on State Day

"Mujhe actual mein Maharashtra se bahut zyada pyaar mila hai aur iss Maharashtra Diwas ke din main ye kehna chahunga ki jab main Jaipur se aaya tha, mujhe aap logon ne accept kiya. Mujhe hamesha ye dar tha ki mujhe log accept karenge ya nahi karenge, itne bade shehar mein mujhe pyaar milega ya nahi milega, lekin shayad aap logon ka dil itna bada hai ki main kahin par bhi jaata hoon, mujhe hamesha badi si muskurahat se log milte hain aur main tahe dil se aap sab ka dhanyavaad karta hoon," said Rajeev.

Taking the moment further, Rajeev expressed his gratitude and emotional connection with Maharashtra, saying, "Aapne kaha ki Maharashtra ne mujhe apna damad kabul kiya, meri saas ne mujhe apna damad kabul kiya. Aap logon ki nazaron mein main bahut achha hoon, meri saas ki nazaron mein bhi main umeed karta hoon ki main bahut achha hoon."

On the occasion of Maharashtra Day, Rajeev also embraced Maharashtrian culture with warmth and humility.

Adding a cultural twist to the episode, contestants encouraged Rajeev to say an ukhaana, a traditional Maharashtrian poetic verse often recited during weddings and festive occasions, where one cleverly includes their partner's name.

Initially shy but sporting a smile, Rajeev agreed and playfully asked for help. Guided by a contestant, he repeated the lines with sincerity and charm, leaving everyone delighted.

"Kahi shabd umadtat galaatun, kahi shabd umadtat galayaatun, Manjiri rani tuza ani fakta tuza naav umadta majhya hrudayaatun. (Some words are said by the mouth, some words are by the throat, but my dear Manjiri, your name comes directly from my heart and soul)"

For the uninitiated, Rajeev is married to Manjiri who is Maharashtrian by birth.

- IANS