Veteran Bollywood actress Suhasini Mulay, celebrated for her roles in films such as Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar, remained unmarried for six decades. She held firm to her standards, seeking a partner who genuinely embraced equality and mutual respect. It was not until she turned 60 that she encountered someone who met her expectations, leading to a swift marriage just 75 days after their first in-person meeting.
Mulay has often spoken about her deliberate choice to stay single. She explained that she had never found a man who aligned with her views on partnership until later in life. Her husband, Atul Gurtu, is a respected scientist known for his work on the Large Hadron Collider project. Despite their different professional worlds she admits to not always following his scientific discussions she describes him as a kind and remarkable person.
Their connection began unexpectedly on Facebook. Mulay joined the platform on a colleague’s suggestion to explore professional opportunities. While browsing, she came across Gurtu’s profile, which intrigued her because of his physics background and her own longstanding interest in science. She reached out with a simple question about the LHC, sparking an ongoing exchange of messages and emails. During their conversations, Gurtu subtly indicated he was open to finding a life partner.
Initially cautious, Mulay hesitated. She consulted friends for advice. One encouraged her not to dismiss the possibility outright, noting that options narrow with age and there was little risk in exploring the connection. Another longtime friend reminded her of her independent spirit and urged her forward. To protect herself, she verified Gurtu’s identity by cross-referencing his profile details with his professional organization. Only after confirming everything matched did she proceed.
Gurtu’s thoughtful email emphasizing the need to actively pursue change in one’s life resonated deeply with her. They began communicating in July, but their first meeting was delayed until shortly after Diwali due to schedules. Mulay even arrived late intentionally to ensure his appearance matched his photos. The encounter proved successful, and their bond strengthened quickly.
Before meeting him, Mulay had created a personal checklist of non-negotiable qualities. Equality topped the list, along with a desire for a non-judgmental partner who respected diverse lifestyles and avoided excessive religiosity. Gurtu fulfilled all these criteria.
Their relationship progressed rapidly. After meeting in late November, they decided to marry by mid-January. Mulay’s mother was astonished by the news but grew supportive after meeting Gurtu during one of his lectures. His humble response to questions about marrying later in life that both were capable of living independently but chose to pursue happiness particularly impressed her.
Even the marriage registration brought a lighthearted moment when the official, seeing their ages, initially assumed they were there for other paperwork and jokingly referred to Gurtu as “uncle.” Mulay has noted that societal judgment accompanied both her long singlehood and her late marriage, yet she remained true to herself. Today, more than 15 years into their marriage, the couple continues to share a fulfilling life together.