Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 18: Veteran actress Suhasini Mulay, known for her memorable performances in Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar, has revealed how she found love and married for the first time at the age of 60 after meeting renowned scientist Atul Gurtu through Facebook.
Speaking on various interview platforms, the actress shared that she had spent decades refusing to settle for a relationship that did not align with her beliefs about equality, mutual respect and personal freedom.
“I married for the first time at the age of 60. Until then, I hadn't found the right match. My husband is a very well-known scientist. When he talks about science, I don't understand a thing, but he is a wonderful human being,” she said.
Mulay recalled that she joined Facebook after being encouraged by a co-star, primarily to explore professional opportunities. While browsing the platform, she came across Atul Gurtu’s profile and was intrigued to learn that he was involved with the Large Hadron Collider project.
Having a long-standing interest in science, she sent him a message asking about the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which led to regular conversations and email exchanges.
Over time, Gurtu hinted that he was looking for a life partner. However, Mulay initially dismissed the idea.
“When I realised he was looking for someone, I laughed to myself. I thought, ‘When I couldn't find the right person in 60 years, how am I suddenly going to find him now?’” she recalled.
The actress admitted that she was cautious about interacting with someone she had met online. A close friend encouraged her to keep an open mind, pointing out that opportunities for companionship become fewer with age.
Concerned about fake online identities, Mulay carefully verified Gurtu’s credentials by matching details on his Facebook profile with information available through his workplace. Only after confirming his identity did she agree to continue the friendship.
Even when they finally arranged to meet, Mulay intentionally arrived late.
“I wanted to make sure he actually looked like the person in the photographs before meeting him,” she said humorously.
Their relationship progressed quickly. After meeting in person at the end of November, they spent considerable time talking and getting to know each other. By January 16, they had decided to marry.
“Once we had made the decision, there was no point waiting,” she said.
Mulay also recalled her mother’s surprise when she informed her about the marriage. Initially unable to believe the news, her mother later expressed happiness after meeting Gurtu and appreciating his intelligence and outlook on life.
The actress shared that what particularly impressed her mother was Gurtu’s response when asked why he wanted to marry at the age of 60.
According to Mulay, he replied, “Suhasini has lived alone all her life and can continue to do so. I can continue to live alone as well. But I want to give happiness a chance. If it doesn't work out, we will simply admit we made a mistake.”
The couple also had a memorable experience while registering their marriage, with an official initially assuming Mulay had come to collect an old marriage certificate rather than register a new marriage.
Reflecting on public reactions, Mulay said she faced criticism both for remaining unmarried in her younger years and for choosing to marry later in life.
“When you're a celebrity, people think they have the right to judge every decision you make,” she observed.
Now married for 15 years, Mulay describes her relationship as one built on companionship, mutual respect and shared values.
A five-time National Award-winning actress, Suhasini Mulay began her career with Bhuvan Shome and has worked with celebrated filmmakers including Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen and Gulzar. She is also known for acclaimed performances in Dil Chahta Hai and Hu Tu Tu, for which she won the National Award for Best Supporting Actress.