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Page 2 of 4
Where to Meet
He's an NRI. Obviously you cannot meet him at an udipi. What will he
think? "His background is the deciding factor," says Roshni, media
professional. "I have even met up with guys at an Archies Gallery, walked
uptil a closeby juice stall and mentally sorted out my instant reaction to
the person over a glass of orange juice. Unassuming works for me." Good
idea, as it's not a tight squeeze either on the wallet or time. Often a
fast food joint works well in situations like these when the boy and girl
are meeting up, unescorted. "It's a question of having a candid
conversation in an informal atmosphere," says Rashmi, computer engineer.
But what happens when family comes into the picture? "Ideally we prefer to
visit the boy at his house. It gives us a clear introduction to his way of
living, thoughts and mannerism," says Mrs. Joshi, mother of three
daughters of marriageable age. "Though if that is not possible, owing to
factors like meeting in another city, we meet in a coffee shop. If the boy
is accompanied by his parents, then a five star coffee shop is an
appropriate venue. It sets the right impression," she admits candidly.
Isn't the cost factor a deterrent? How about the lobby..."Why meet in a
five star lobby? Business meetings take place there!" she points out.
How about the boy's parents? "So far, we have been screening brides for
our son by meeting the girls at their homes," says Mrs. Puri. "It's the
best option and in that case we can take Atur's grandparents too. But if
we were to meet outside the house, a club would work well. Because it is
unassuming, spacious and gives the youngsters a to walk around and talk."
The making of an arranged marriage brings with it the baggage of
relatives. Including nieces and nephews who love to sleuth. You may elect
to dine together (with the matchmaker Aunt, parents, grandparents et
al)... "We chose an Indian cuisine restaurant. Unfortunately, we got the
table right next to the ghazal singer. The acoustics made it really tough
to follow conversation," says Nandita Roy, the anxious mother of a
22-year-old. "So we asked Kriti and Ishaan to go out and talk after
dinner." Wonderful solution as it gave the two time to talk to each other
without having to put up with watchful eyes and flapping ears.
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