Switzerland&nbsp;agreed to&nbsp;legalise civil&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;and the right to adopt children for&nbsp;same-sex&nbsp;couples by a&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;two-thirds&nbsp;majority&nbsp;in a referendum on Sunday, making it one of the last countries in Western Europe to&nbsp;legalise gay&nbsp;marriage.

According to results provided by the Swiss federal chancellery, 64.1% of voters voted in favour of&nbsp;same-sex&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;in the nationwide referendum that was conducted under&nbsp;Switzerland's system of direct democracy.

"We are very happy and relieved," said Antonia Hauswirth of the national committee "Marriage&nbsp;for All", adding supporters would celebrate in&nbsp;Switzerland's capital Bern on Sunday.

Amnesty International said in a statement that opening civil&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;to&nbsp;same-sex&nbsp;couples was a "milestone for equality".

However, Monika Rueegger of&nbsp;Switzerland's right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) and member of the referendum committee "No to&nbsp;Marriage&nbsp;for All" said she was disappointed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-tayyip-erdogan-says-turkey-intends-to-buy-more-russian-defence-systems-416211">Also read |&nbsp;President Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey intends to buy more Russian defence systems</a>

"This was not about love and feelings, it was about children's welfare. Children and fathers are the losers here," she told Reuters.

The amended law will&nbsp;make&nbsp;it possible for&nbsp;same-sex&nbsp;couples to get married, and to adopt children unrelated to them. Married lesbian couples will also be allowed to have children through sperm donation, currently&nbsp;legal&nbsp;only for married heterosexual couples.

It will also&nbsp;make&nbsp;it easier for foreign spouses of a Swiss individual to get citizenship.

Swiss Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter told a media briefing the new rules would likely come into force on July 1 next year.

In a separate referendum, 64.9% of Swiss voters rejected a proposal to introduce a capital gains tax.

Switzerland agreed to legalise civil marriage and the right to adopt children for same-sex couples by a nearly two-thirds majority in a referendum on Sunday, making it one of the last countries in Western Europe to legalise gay marriage.

Switzerland agreed to legalise civil marriage and the right to adopt children for same-sex couples by a nearly two-thirds majority in a referendum on Sunday, making it one of the last countries in Western Europe to legalise gay marriage. According to results provided by the Swiss federal chancellery, 64.1% of voters voted in favour of same-sex marriage in the nationwide referendum that was conducted under Switzerland's system of direct democracy. "We are very happy and relieved," said Antonia Hauswirth of the national committee "Marriage for All", adding supporters would celebrate in Switzerland's capital Bern on Sunday. Amnesty International said in a statement that opening civil marriage to same-sex couples was a "milestone for equality". However, Monika Rueegger of Switzerland's right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) and member of the referendum committee "No to Marriage for All" said she was disappointed. Also read | President Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey intends to buy more Russian defence systems "This was not about love and feelings, it was about children's welfare. Children and fathers are the losers here," she told Reuters. The amended law will make it possible for same-sex couples to get married, and to adopt children unrelated to them. Married lesbian couples will also be allowed to have children through sperm donation, currently legal only for married heterosexual couples. It will also make it easier for foreign spouses of a Swiss individual to get citizenship. Swiss Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter told a media briefing the new rules would likely come into force on July 1 next year. In a separate referendum, 64.9% of Swiss voters rejected a proposal to introduce a capital gains tax.

Switzerland votes to make same-sex marriage legal by near two-thirds majority

Japan's&nbsp;Princess&nbsp;Mako&nbsp;is set to forego a&nbsp;one-off&nbsp;million-dollar&nbsp;payment&nbsp;for giving&nbsp;up&nbsp;her royal status to wed a college classmate,&nbsp;media&nbsp;said on Saturday, clearing the way for a&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;delayed for years by controversy over her fiance.

The 29-year-old grand-daughter of then-Emperor Akihito and her former college classmate, Kei Komuro, announced their engagement in 2017.

But the&nbsp;marriage&nbsp;was put&nbsp;off&nbsp;after reports of a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-to-vote-on-allowing-same-sex-marriage-in-referendum-416076">Also read |&nbsp;Swiss to vote on allowing same-sex marriage in referendum</a>

The government is set to agree that the&nbsp;princess&nbsp;forego the&nbsp;payment, worth&nbsp;up&nbsp;to 150 million yen for royals giving&nbsp;up&nbsp;their status to marry commoners, amid public criticism over her fiance, public broadcaster NHK and others said.

NHK said the wedding date may be announced in October.

Officials of the Imperial Household Agency were not immediately available to comment.

A Japanese broadcaster, anticipating an imminent wedding, recently tracked down Komuro in New York. He was shown sporting a ponytail, a detail that has caused an&nbsp;uproar among some Japanese users of Twitter.

Media&nbsp;have said the couple plan to live in the United States. Under&nbsp;Japan's&nbsp;males-only royal succession law, female members of the imperial family lose their status on marrying commoners.

Japan's Princess Mako is set to forego a one-off million-dollar payment for giving up her royal status to wed a college classmate, media said on Saturday, clearing the way for a marriage delayed for years by controversy over her fiance.

Japan's Princess Mako is set to forego a one-off million-dollar payment for giving up her royal status to wed a college classmate, media said on Saturday, clearing the way for a marriage delayed for years by controversy over her fiance. The 29-year-old grand-daughter of then-Emperor Akihito and her former college classmate, Kei Komuro, announced their engagement in 2017. But the marriage was put off after reports of a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance. Also read | Swiss to vote on allowing same-sex marriage in referendum The government is set to agree that the princess forego the payment, worth up to 150 million yen for royals giving up their status to marry commoners, amid public criticism over her fiance, public broadcaster NHK and others said. NHK said the wedding date may be announced in October. Officials of the Imperial Household Agency were not immediately available to comment. A Japanese broadcaster, anticipating an imminent wedding, recently tracked down Komuro in New York. He was shown sporting a ponytail, a detail that has caused an uproar among some Japanese users of Twitter. Media have said the couple plan to live in the United States. Under Japan's males-only royal succession law, female members of the imperial family lose their status on marrying commoners.

Japan's Princess Mako to give up one-off payment in controversial marriage: Media

Bangladesh Parliament recently declined to consider a weird proposal by an independent lawmaker who suggested a ban on marriages among the working people.&nbsp;

The proposal was made to address the unemployment issue in the country, drawing criticism from fellow parliamentarians.

Lawmaker Rezaul Karim argued that the children of working couples were often exposed to abuse by housemaids.

As per PTI, Karim said, "Men holding jobs want to marry working women, likewise, women in service want to marry service holders...if the trend continues you can't resolve the unemployment problem in the country".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-afghan-boy-dies-of-mushroom-poisoning-in-poland-410687">Also read |&nbsp;Second Afghan boy dies of mushroom poisoning in Poland</a>

The proposal incited laughter in the House and several of his colleagues ridiculed him.&nbsp;

The law minister Anisul Huq called the proposal a manifestation of "freedom of speech". He said, "I cannot move two steps off the House if I accept the proposal...this is unconstitutional."

Huq further said that being a public representative himself, he could not endanger his own career by accepting such a weird proposal.

Karim became a lawmaker from a constituency in northwestern Bogra district for the first time in 2018.&nbsp;

He drew massive criticism last year by blaming the feminist campaigns for growing incidents of rape. 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh Parliament recently declined to consider a weird proposal by an independent lawmaker who suggested a ban on marriages among the working people. The proposal was made to address the unemployment issue in the country, drawing criticism from fellow parliamentarians.

Bangladesh Parliament recently declined to consider a weird proposal by an independent lawmaker who suggested a ban on marriages among the working people. The proposal was made to address the unemployment issue in the country, drawing criticism from fellow parliamentarians. Lawmaker Rezaul Karim argued that the children of working couples were often exposed to abuse by housemaids. As per PTI, Karim said, "Men holding jobs want to marry working women, likewise, women in service want to marry service holders...if the trend continues you can't resolve the unemployment problem in the country". Also read | Second Afghan boy dies of mushroom poisoning in Poland The proposal incited laughter in the House and several of his colleagues ridiculed him. The law minister Anisul Huq called the proposal a manifestation of "freedom of speech". He said, "I cannot move two steps off the House if I accept the proposal...this is unconstitutional." Huq further said that being a public representative himself, he could not endanger his own career by accepting such a weird proposal. Karim became a lawmaker from a constituency in northwestern Bogra district for the first time in 2018. He drew massive criticism last year by blaming the feminist campaigns for growing incidents of rape.

Bangladesh MP proposes ban on marriages among working people

A religious leader in Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s Lakki Marwat district was arrested for threatening and inciting violence over Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai`s remarks on marriage.

In an interview with Vogue, when asked about marriage, Malala had said: "I still don`t understand why people have to get married. If you want to have a person in your life, why do you have to sign marriage papers, why can`t it just be a partnership?"Malala`s remarks did not go well with several religious and political leaders in Pakistan. They have contended that life partnership was not allowed in any religion.

Lakki Marwat District Police Office confirmed that the arrest had taken place on Wednesday, adding that the cleric, Mufti Sardar Ali Haqqani, was arrested after an FIR was registered against him under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

According to the FIR, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, a video went viral on social media showing Mufti Sardar instigating people at a gathering in Peshawar to take the law into their own hands and attack Malala. The religious leader was also armed when the incident took place, the FIR said.

"When Malala comes to Pakistan I will be the first to attempt a suicide attack on her," the FIR quoted him as saying, adding that the speech had threatened peace and incited lawlessness. It added that the mufti did not file an application in any legal forum and took the law into his hands.

After the FIR was registered, a police team raided a house and arrested him. The controversy over Malala`s remarks was also raised in the KP assembly with members of the opposition PPP and Muttahida Majlis-i-Amal urging her family to clarify their position on the issue. The issue was raised by PPP lawmaker from Upper Dir district Sahibzada Sanaullah on a point of order.

The member insisted that life partnership was not allowed in any religion and if Malala favoured it, then the stand was condemnable. "She [Malala] should clarify if she has not made that statement," said the lawmaker, who had quit the Jamaat-i-Islami to join the PPP.

A religious leader in Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s Lakki Marwat district was arrested for threatening and inciting violence over Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai`s remarks on marriage.

A religious leader in Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa`s Lakki Marwat district was arrested for threatening and inciting violence over Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai`s remarks on marriage. In an interview with Vogue, when asked about marriage, Malala had said: "I still don`t understand why people have to get married. If you want to have a person in your life, why do you have to sign marriage papers, why can`t it just be a partnership?"Malala`s remarks did not go well with several religious and political leaders in Pakistan. They have contended that life partnership was not allowed in any religion. Lakki Marwat District Police Office confirmed that the arrest had taken place on Wednesday, adding that the cleric, Mufti Sardar Ali Haqqani, was arrested after an FIR was registered against him under the Anti-Terrorism Act. According to the FIR, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, a video went viral on social media showing Mufti Sardar instigating people at a gathering in Peshawar to take the law into their own hands and attack Malala. The religious leader was also armed when the incident took place, the FIR said. "When Malala comes to Pakistan I will be the first to attempt a suicide attack on her," the FIR quoted him as saying, adding that the speech had threatened peace and incited lawlessness. It added that the mufti did not file an application in any legal forum and took the law into his hands. After the FIR was registered, a police team raided a house and arrested him. The controversy over Malala`s remarks was also raised in the KP assembly with members of the opposition PPP and Muttahida Majlis-i-Amal urging her family to clarify their position on the issue. The issue was raised by PPP lawmaker from Upper Dir district Sahibzada Sanaullah on a point of order. The member insisted that life partnership was not allowed in any religion and if Malala favoured it, then the stand was condemnable. "She [Malala] should clarify if she has not made that statement," said the lawmaker, who had quit the Jamaat-i-Islami to join the PPP.

Pakistan cleric arrested for threatening Malala over her views on marriage

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson married his fiancee Carrie Symonds in a secret ceremony at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, the Sun and Mail on Sunday newspapers reported.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for Johnson's Downing Street office declined to comment on the reports.&nbsp;

Both newspapers said guests were invited at the last minute to the central London ceremony, and said even senior members of Johnson's office were unaware of the wedding plans.&nbsp;

Weddings in England are currently limited to 30 people due to COVID-19 restrictions.&nbsp;

The Catholic cathedral was suddenly locked down at 1:30 pm (1230 GMT) and Symonds, 33, arrived 30 minutes later in a limo, in a long white dress with no veil, both reports said.&nbsp;

Johnson, 56, and Symonds, 33, have been living together in Downing Street since Johnson became prime minister in 2019.&nbsp;

Last year, they announced they were engaged and that they were expecting a child, and their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, was born in April 2020.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Sun had reported that wedding invitations had been sent to friends and family for July 2022.&nbsp;

Johnson, once dubbed 'Bonking Boris' by Britain's tabloid media, has a complicated private life.&nbsp;

He was once sacked from the Conservative Party's policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. He has been divorced twice and refuses to say how many children he has fathered.&nbsp;

Johnson's last marriage was to Marina Wheeler, a lawyer. They had four children together but announced in September 2018 that they had separated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson married his fiancee Carrie Symonds in a secret ceremony at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, the Sun and Mail on Sunday newspapers reported.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson married his fiancee Carrie Symonds in a secret ceremony at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, the Sun and Mail on Sunday newspapers reported. A spokeswoman for Johnson's Downing Street office declined to comment on the reports. Both newspapers said guests were invited at the last minute to the central London ceremony, and said even senior members of Johnson's office were unaware of the wedding plans. Weddings in England are currently limited to 30 people due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Catholic cathedral was suddenly locked down at 1:30 pm (1230 GMT) and Symonds, 33, arrived 30 minutes later in a limo, in a long white dress with no veil, both reports said. Johnson, 56, and Symonds, 33, have been living together in Downing Street since Johnson became prime minister in 2019. Last year, they announced they were engaged and that they were expecting a child, and their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, was born in April 2020. Earlier this month, the Sun had reported that wedding invitations had been sent to friends and family for July 2022. Johnson, once dubbed 'Bonking Boris' by Britain's tabloid media, has a complicated private life. He was once sacked from the Conservative Party's policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. He has been divorced twice and refuses to say how many children he has fathered. Johnson's last marriage was to Marina Wheeler, a lawyer. They had four children together but announced in September 2018 that they had separated. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson marries fiancee in secret ceremony: Reports 

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting.

But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times.

All this has also happened in 37 days, according to local media reports.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marriage-stability-highest-among-indian-americans-in-us-new-report-reveals-372260">Marriage stability highest among Indian Americans in US, new report reveals</a>

And the reason behind this bizarre act is also something never heard of.&nbsp;

A bank clerk registered for a marriage on April 6 for which he took eight days leave from April 7 to 16, according to a Facebook post shared by a lawyer Lin.&nbsp;

The post further said that immediately the man divorced his wife and registered for a new marriage to the same woman on April 17.&nbsp;

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After taking another eight days of marriage leave, the clerk again divorced on April 28 and married yet again on April 29.&nbsp;

It followed the third divorce on May 11 and a fourth marriage to the same woman on May 12.&nbsp;

The bank suspected abuse of marriage leaves and only paid for leaves for the clerk's first marriage.&nbsp;

A complaint was filed by the man at the Taipei City Labor Bureau, which fined the bank NT$20,000 (over USD 700) for not paying for the leaves of all four marriages.&nbsp;

The bank then filed an appeal to the verdict saying that leave was not in compliance with the Labor Standard Act.&nbsp;

The Commissioner of the Labor Standards Section of the Labor Bureau Huang Jingang though agreed that the man's practice was unreasonable, but said there is no such provision in the Labor Standard Act that a person cannot marry the same person to get leaves.&nbsp;

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting. But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times.

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting. But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times. All this has also happened in 37 days, according to local media reports. Also read | Marriage stability highest among Indian Americans in US, new report reveals And the reason behind this bizarre act is also something never heard of. A bank clerk registered for a marriage on April 6 for which he took eight days leave from April 7 to 16, according to a Facebook post shared by a lawyer Lin. The post further said that immediately the man divorced his wife and registered for a new marriage to the same woman on April 17. Also read | Host surprises virtual guests attending marriage by home-delivering wedding feast After taking another eight days of marriage leave, the clerk again divorced on April 28 and married yet again on April 29. It followed the third divorce on May 11 and a fourth marriage to the same woman on May 12. The bank suspected abuse of marriage leaves and only paid for leaves for the clerk's first marriage. A complaint was filed by the man at the Taipei City Labor Bureau, which fined the bank NT$20,000 (over USD 700) for not paying for the leaves of all four marriages. The bank then filed an appeal to the verdict saying that leave was not in compliance with the Labor Standard Act. The Commissioner of the Labor Standards Section of the Labor Bureau Huang Jingang though agreed that the man's practice was unreasonable, but said there is no such provision in the Labor Standard Act that a person cannot marry the same person to get leaves.

Taiwan man marries four times, divorces three times to get extra paid leaves

A recently published report suggests that immigrant families are more stable than native-born American families, with Indian American families leading in terms of marriage stability. The report was published by the Institute of Family Studies (IFS), which aims to promote values of marriage and family.

Based on census data, the think tank ascertained that 72 per cent immigrants with children continue to be stable in their first marriage. Among native Americans, 60 per cent stayed in their first marriage.

IFS’ Director of Research Wendy Wang said immigrants generally have higher marriage rates and lower rates of divorce when compared to native Americans. The report added that for every 1,000 unmarried immigrants aged between 18-64 in 2019, at least 59 got married. Among native-born Americans, the number stood at 39.

Divorce rates are relatively higher among native-born Americans compared to immigrants. “Only 13 out of 1000 married immigrants ages 18-64 got a divorce in 2019, compared with 20 out of 1000 among native-born Americans of same age,” the report claims.

Even among immigrants, the numbers vary. Indian Americans came on top in terms of family stability. Based on a survey conducted in 2019 among Americans, the think tank found that 94 per cent of Indian immigrants are in stable marriages.

Only 4 per cent Indian Americans remarried, while 2 per cent with children remain unmarried.

India was followed by Bangladesh at 90 per cent, Pakistan at 87 per cent, Taiwan with 86 per cent, Korea - 85 per cent, and China with 84 per cent. Japan too ranked with 53 per cent, suggesting that Asian families in the US have relatively stabler marriages.

A recently published report suggests that immigrant families are more stable than native-born American families, with Indian American families leading in terms of marriage stability.

A recently published report suggests that immigrant families are more stable than native-born American families, with Indian American families leading in terms of marriage stability. The report was published by the Institute of Family Studies (IFS), which aims to promote values of marriage and family. Based on census data, the think tank ascertained that 72 per cent immigrants with children continue to be stable in their first marriage. Among native Americans, 60 per cent stayed in their first marriage. IFS’ Director of Research Wendy Wang said immigrants generally have higher marriage rates and lower rates of divorce when compared to native Americans. The report added that for every 1,000 unmarried immigrants aged between 18-64 in 2019, at least 59 got married. Among native-born Americans, the number stood at 39. Divorce rates are relatively higher among native-born Americans compared to immigrants. “Only 13 out of 1000 married immigrants ages 18-64 got a divorce in 2019, compared with 20 out of 1000 among native-born Americans of same age,” the report claims. Even among immigrants, the numbers vary. Indian Americans came on top in terms of family stability. Based on a survey conducted in 2019 among Americans, the think tank found that 94 per cent of Indian immigrants are in stable marriages. Only 4 per cent Indian Americans remarried, while 2 per cent with children remain unmarried. India was followed by Bangladesh at 90 per cent, Pakistan at 87 per cent, Taiwan with 86 per cent, Korea - 85 per cent, and China with 84 per cent. Japan too ranked with 53 per cent, suggesting that Asian families in the US have relatively stabler marriages.

Marriage stability highest among Indian Americans in US, new report reveals

We have all heard about the grim stories related to divorce when two love birds, who considered each other as soul mates, decide to part ways.

But, a woman in Zambia has taken her relation to the court before the marriage.&nbsp;

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Gertrude Ngoma and Herbert Salaliki have been dating for eight years and Salaliki promised to marry her in the future. However, Ngomo is tired of the eight-year wait and sued her boyfriend for not marrying her.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-couple-weds-in-ppe-kits-at-quarantine-centre-after-bride-tests-positive-for-covid-19-348159">India: Couple weds in PPE kits at quarantine centre after bride tests positive for COVID-19</a>

The 28-year-old woman told the court that Salaliki is not serious about their relationship and demanded him to reveal his future plans.&nbsp;

"He has never been serious, that is why I bought him to court because I deserve to know the way forward and our future," the woman was quoted as saying by Toko. &nbsp;

Ngomo said that she suspected her boyfriend's loyalty after finding out that he was testing another woman.

Ngomo believes something is cooking between this woman and her boyfriend.&nbsp;

Salaliki defended himself, saying he was not in the right financial position to marry his&nbsp;girlfriend and also blamed her for not giving her the attention desired by him.

The judge advised the couple that since they are not married, reconcilation is the best way forward.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

We have all heard about the grim stories related to divorce when two love birds, who considered each other as soul mates, decide to part ways. But, a woman in Zambia has taken her relation to the court before the marriage.

We have all heard about the grim stories related to divorce when two love birds, who considered each other as soul mates, decide to part ways. But, a woman in Zambia has taken her relation to the court before the marriage. Also read | Ukrainian church leader, who called coronavirus 'god's punishment' to same-sex marriages tests positive Gertrude Ngoma and Herbert Salaliki have been dating for eight years and Salaliki promised to marry her in the future. However, Ngomo is tired of the eight-year wait and sued her boyfriend for not marrying her. Also read | India: Couple weds in PPE kits at quarantine centre after bride tests positive for COVID-19 The 28-year-old woman told the court that Salaliki is not serious about their relationship and demanded him to reveal his future plans. "He has never been serious, that is why I bought him to court because I deserve to know the way forward and our future," the woman was quoted as saying by Toko. Ngomo said that she suspected her boyfriend's loyalty after finding out that he was testing another woman. Ngomo believes something is cooking between this woman and her boyfriend. Salaliki defended himself, saying he was not in the right financial position to marry his girlfriend and also blamed her for not giving her the attention desired by him. The judge advised the couple that since they are not married, reconcilation is the best way forward.

Woman sues boyfriend for not marrying her despite eight years of dating

In a Fall of a coronavirus-free world a few years ago, I -- freshly out of a toxic relationship -- was kind of forced, kind of emotionally bewitched into trusting the way 70 per cent of Indian population gets married -- an arranged set up. The matrimonial website said nothing out-of-the-box of the guy I was supposed to meet at a Delhi cafe, and a meeting was hence mandatory.

The third question I faced at the "interview" was if I could cook. The fourth was if I had ever been in a relationship given "women in media sleep around" (yes, he said that to me). Seeing my head nod in a casual affirmation, the man of the hour said, "It's good you have told me. But looks like you don't know the rules. Don't say&nbsp;such things to others. They don't take it nicely."

This man obviously could not be my man. Simply, because he could not cook, and knowing how to&nbsp;cook is very important (as per him).

A few months later, I was pitched&nbsp;as a prospective wife to the brother of a relative. He turned me down (by just looking at my picture) because I wore spectacles, and worked in media (and "women in media are shrewd").

This hurt my experimental parents, and they let go off the idea of fitting in their daughter in a set up that is consumed with the idea of marriages, but not marriages.

By that measure, the new Netflix series -- Indian Matchmaking -- is a pretty picture the matchmaker, Sima Taparia from Mumbai (that's how she introduces herself to every family she meets), tries to paint of this system.

There's no vile colourism, not a hint of casteism and no forceful attribution by the family members (except for Preeti and her son Akshay) -- maybe because these families are either based in the United States or belong to the high class in India.

Sima mostly stays true to her profession. It's only when the inherent conditioning of the Indian ecosystem (read: misogyny)&nbsp;takes over her that she uses the word -- compromise. According to her, and she says it enough, the girl has to compromise. So if Aparna, one of her clients, is not ready to, she says she is negative in her approach and that she has to change (of course to the camera, and not to her).

<img alt="Sima Taparia from Indian Matchmaking" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7acd7b2e-b151-4a04-b592-577f773825ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sima%20taparia.jpg" />

When Aparna mellows down a little, Sima says she now sees a positive change in her. Voila! Things the thought of a marriage can do...!

There's an equally fussy man on the series, but he is a man. So we don't get to hear words, like negative, for him. It's just that he is "picky".

And then there's the mama's boy, Akshay, who is the prime example of the Oedipus Complex that runs in India (howsoever weird that may sound). His mother Preeti is the only woman who can subscribe to the Indian tribe here -- her blood pressure remains high because her son, all of 25, won't get married.

"Ladki ko thoda flexible hona padega," she demands and finds one girl who is flexible, adjusting and beautiful. Aur kya chahiye?

One of the two obsessions of people in India is Bollywood and its love stories -- for the movies have&nbsp;been packaging and repackaging the idea of falling in love in several different forms over the years. 'Indian Matchmaking', however, has got nothing to do with love despite being based on marriages.

People are binge-hate-watching the series, and to be honest, why not?! For me, it was like watching a slimy creature crawling on the ground. I am staring at it; I know it's disgusting, but I am enjoying the creepiness. Because I know me hating it will not stop the creature from moving forward.

The Indian "matchmaking"&nbsp;gets worse when it trickles down to matchmaking across the very threadbare of India. And that's what makes me hate the series -- for it shows only the pretty part of matchmaking in India.

In India, there'll be no Aparna -- for there won't be a 34-year-old self-confident lawyer, demanding a husband who suits her ideals. In a typical Indian household, Aparna would be reminded at least a 100 times in a month of her age, of the ticking clock and of her eggs getting older. And if she survives the onslaught, she would be pressed to marry the first guy who kind of suits her narrative.

<img alt="Aparna from Indian Matchmaking" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a0ccb60-254f-40d5-80f0-4478ac4422f2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/aparna.jpg" />

But Aparna gets a fair deal in the series; so does Akshay and so does everyone.

I speak with experience. My cousin got married because of her colour and her intact hymen. Another cousin, bespectacled, was almost made to reject a girl because she also wore spectacles.

One cousin was made to let go of his 11-year long relationship because the girl did not belong to his caste. Another cousin is fighting a daily battle because the guy is a Tamil Brahmin, and oh, the tribe is "dark".

A friend, by his own admission, dated a girl for four years, and happily and willingly married a girl of his father's choice the fifth year.

Often under the garb of culture and tradition, and always under the veil of preservation and longevity of the family name -- sometimes, in the name of gynaecology, matchmaking imposes a timeline on everyone's life. So a 23-28 range is when you should get married, and if you're over 31, you'll have to compromise -- on your likes, dislikes and everthing that comes in between.

What Sima Taparia does in 'Indian Matchmaking' is dealing with families that can entertain the idea of a girl seven years older than the guy. And the girl can reject that guy on the basis of his salary.

The hate the series is getting hence makes little sense. This is a mirror to the society. This is what happens in India -- look at your parents, your neighbours, or your relatives; I bet 80 per cent of them were wed off in an arranged set up defined by the movement of stars and horoscopes. 'Indian Matchmaking' is, in fact, a prettier picture.

The social media is filled with judgemental eyes for Aparna, who just wants to live her life by her own rules. She is unapologetically herself. She hates comedy, and she says it. She's not going to compromise, and she says it. But we have so subscribed to the concept of compromise and adjustment in a marriage that we cannot see logic.

'Indian Matchmaking' is just the tip of the iceberg of matchmaking in India. The real game in India is way more convoluted, painstaking and disrespectful to human emotion -- especially for girls. It's a haggling of virtues and vices, and is decided by horoscopes and pre-decided norms for both genders. And emotional and sexual compatibility -- the most important factors in a marriage as far as Bollywood, and well, the entire world, goes -- take a forever backseat.

Sima Taparia is a brilliant businessperson who peruses this need for social validation and makes a living out of it. She is not the problem; the series is not the problem. We are the problem.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

In a Fall of a coronavirus-free world a few years ago, I -- freshly out of a toxic relationship -- was kind of forced, kind of emotionally bewitched into trusting the way 70 per cent of Indian population gets married -- an arranged set up.

In a Fall of a coronavirus-free world a few years ago, I -- freshly out of a toxic relationship -- was kind of forced, kind of emotionally bewitched into trusting the way 70 per cent of Indian population gets married -- an arranged set up. The matrimonial website said nothing out-of-the-box of the guy I was supposed to meet at a Delhi cafe, and a meeting was hence mandatory. The third question I faced at the "interview" was if I could cook. The fourth was if I had ever been in a relationship given "women in media sleep around" (yes, he said that to me). Seeing my head nod in a casual affirmation, the man of the hour said, "It's good you have told me. But looks like you don't know the rules. Don't say such things to others. They don't take it nicely." This man obviously could not be my man. Simply, because he could not cook, and knowing how to cook is very important (as per him). A few months later, I was pitched as a prospective wife to the brother of a relative. He turned me down (by just looking at my picture) because I wore spectacles, and worked in media (and "women in media are shrewd"). This hurt my experimental parents, and they let go off the idea of fitting in their daughter in a set up that is consumed with the idea of marriages, but not marriages. By that measure, the new Netflix series -- Indian Matchmaking -- is a pretty picture the matchmaker, Sima Taparia from Mumbai (that's how she introduces herself to every family she meets), tries to paint of this system. There's no vile colourism, not a hint of casteism and no forceful attribution by the family members (except for Preeti and her son Akshay) -- maybe because these families are either based in the United States or belong to the high class in India. Sima mostly stays true to her profession. It's only when the inherent conditioning of the Indian ecosystem (read: misogyny) takes over her that she uses the word -- compromise. According to her, and she says it enough, the girl has to compromise. So if Aparna, one of her clients, is not ready to, she says she is negative in her approach and that she has to change (of course to the camera, and not to her). When Aparna mellows down a little, Sima says she now sees a positive change in her. Voila! Things the thought of a marriage can do...! There's an equally fussy man on the series, but he is a man. So we don't get to hear words, like negative, for him. It's just that he is "picky". And then there's the mama's boy, Akshay, who is the prime example of the Oedipus Complex that runs in India (howsoever weird that may sound). His mother Preeti is the only woman who can subscribe to the Indian tribe here -- her blood pressure remains high because her son, all of 25, won't get married. "Ladki ko thoda flexible hona padega," she demands and finds one girl who is flexible, adjusting and beautiful. Aur kya chahiye? One of the two obsessions of people in India is Bollywood and its love stories -- for the movies have been packaging and repackaging the idea of falling in love in several different forms over the years. 'Indian Matchmaking', however, has got nothing to do with love despite being based on marriages. People are binge-hate-watching the series, and to be honest, why not?! For me, it was like watching a slimy creature crawling on the ground. I am staring at it; I know it's disgusting, but I am enjoying the creepiness. Because I know me hating it will not stop the creature from moving forward. The Indian "matchmaking" gets worse when it trickles down to matchmaking across the very threadbare of India. And that's what makes me hate the series -- for it shows only the pretty part of matchmaking in India. In India, there'll be no Aparna -- for there won't be a 34-year-old self-confident lawyer, demanding a husband who suits her ideals. In a typical Indian household, Aparna would be reminded at least a 100 times in a month of her age, of the ticking clock and of her eggs getting older. And if she survives the onslaught, she would be pressed to marry the first guy who kind of suits her narrative. But Aparna gets a fair deal in the series; so does Akshay and so does everyone. I speak with experience. My cousin got married because of her colour and her intact hymen. Another cousin, bespectacled, was almost made to reject a girl because she also wore spectacles. One cousin was made to let go of his 11-year long relationship because the girl did not belong to his caste. Another cousin is fighting a daily battle because the guy is a Tamil Brahmin, and oh, the tribe is "dark". A friend, by his own admission, dated a girl for four years, and happily and willingly married a girl of his father's choice the fifth year. Often under the garb of culture and tradition, and always under the veil of preservation and longevity of the family name -- sometimes, in the name of gynaecology, matchmaking imposes a timeline on everyone's life. So a 23-28 range is when you should get married, and if you're over 31, you'll have to compromise -- on your likes, dislikes and everthing that comes in between. What Sima Taparia does in 'Indian Matchmaking' is dealing with families that can entertain the idea of a girl seven years older than the guy. And the girl can reject that guy on the basis of his salary. The hate the series is getting hence makes little sense. This is a mirror to the society. This is what happens in India -- look at your parents, your neighbours, or your relatives; I bet 80 per cent of them were wed off in an arranged set up defined by the movement of stars and horoscopes. 'Indian Matchmaking' is, in fact, a prettier picture. The social media is filled with judgemental eyes for Aparna, who just wants to live her life by her own rules. She is unapologetically herself. She hates comedy, and she says it. She's not going to compromise, and she says it. But we have so subscribed to the concept of compromise and adjustment in a marriage that we cannot see logic. 'Indian Matchmaking' is just the tip of the iceberg of matchmaking in India. The real game in India is way more convoluted, painstaking and disrespectful to human emotion -- especially for girls. It's a haggling of virtues and vices, and is decided by horoscopes and pre-decided norms for both genders. And emotional and sexual compatibility -- the most important factors in a marriage as far as Bollywood, and well, the entire world, goes -- take a forever backseat. Sima Taparia is a brilliant businessperson who peruses this need for social validation and makes a living out of it. She is not the problem; the series is not the problem. We are the problem. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

'Indian Matchmaking' is just the tip of the iceberg of matchmaking in India

As the new coronavirus forces people to alter their daily lives, even long-standing traditions are being upended and people are having to adapt to a new reality. A couple in Peru on Friday (June 12) refused to allow quarantine measures to delay their happy day any longer and became the country's first virtual newlyweds.

Peru celebrates its first virtual marriage as coronavirus upends traditions

Thousands of couples get married in mass wedding ceremony in South Korea braving coronavirus fears

Have you ever thought what happens to the flowers that are used for offering prayers to the God or for decoration at the weddings? A flower once plucked becomes floral waste at the end of the day. To tackle this problem there is a solution to it. Watch the video to know about the solution.

International Flower Day: Flower, Waste & Compost - The Journey

Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Friday called for a delay in passing a new law that would outlaw gay and pre-marital sex after the controversial plan sparked a public outcry.

The proposed criminal code overhaul should get a closer look given the backlash, Widodo said, as he asked that parliament scrap a planned vote on the revisions before its session ends next week.

The mooted changes could affect millions in the world's biggest Muslim majority country, including gay and heterosexual couples who might face jail for having sex outside wedlock, or having an affair.

On Friday, the Australian embassy in Jakarta issued a fresh travel advisory for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-raises-the-minimum-age-for-brides-to-end-child-marriage-250308"> Indonesia</a>, warning that the legislation could put unmarried foreign tourists in the crosshairs.

"After hearing from various groups with objections to aspects of the law, I've decided that some of it needs further deliberation," the recently re-elected Widodo said in a televised press briefing.

"The justice minister has been told to convey my views to parliament and that ratification of the criminal code should be postponed and not passed" in the current session, he added.

Updating Indonesia's criminal code -- which stretches back to the Dutch colonial era -- has been debated for decades and appeared set to pass in 2018 before it fizzled.

A renewed push this year, backed by conservative Islamic groups, was met with a tidal wave of criticism from rights groups and ordinary citizens furious over what many saw as a draconian law that invaded the bedrooms of a nation with some 260 million people -- the fourth most populous on Earth.

An online petition calling for the bill to be scrapped garnered half a million signatures while hundreds of thousands took to social media to vent their frustration.

"It's crazy if this bill is passed, crazy! What is this country turning into?" movie director Joko Anwar tweeted to his 1.7 million followers.

The sweeping proposals call for a wider interpretation of Indonesia's blasphemy law, which has seen members of religious minority groups, including Christians and Buddhists, prosecuted in the past.

They also sought to criminalise "insulting" the president or vice president, which critics said would be a blow to free speech.

People who have pre-marital or extramarital sex could face between six months and one year in jail, as well as fines, under the mooted changes.

There were also penalties for anyone "showing or offering" contraception to minors under 18.

The revisions appeared to bar parents from teaching their children about sex or contraception in favour of authorised government workers.

"Sex education is important. Period," one woman wrote on Twitter.

"I'd rather go to jail than see my daughter raped by her boyfriend just because she doesn't know that sex has to be consensual." 
&nbsp;

Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Friday called for a delay in passing a new law that would outlaw gay and pre-marital sex after the controversial plan sparked a public outcry.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Friday called for a delay in passing a new law that would outlaw gay and pre-marital sex after the controversial plan sparked a public outcry. The proposed criminal code overhaul should get a closer look given the backlash, Widodo said, as he asked that parliament scrap a planned vote on the revisions before its session ends next week. The mooted changes could affect millions in the world's biggest Muslim majority country, including gay and heterosexual couples who might face jail for having sex outside wedlock, or having an affair. On Friday, the Australian embassy in Jakarta issued a fresh travel advisory for Indonesia, warning that the legislation could put unmarried foreign tourists in the crosshairs. "After hearing from various groups with objections to aspects of the law, I've decided that some of it needs further deliberation," the recently re-elected Widodo said in a televised press briefing. "The justice minister has been told to convey my views to parliament and that ratification of the criminal code should be postponed and not passed" in the current session, he added. Updating Indonesia's criminal code -- which stretches back to the Dutch colonial era -- has been debated for decades and appeared set to pass in 2018 before it fizzled. A renewed push this year, backed by conservative Islamic groups, was met with a tidal wave of criticism from rights groups and ordinary citizens furious over what many saw as a draconian law that invaded the bedrooms of a nation with some 260 million people -- the fourth most populous on Earth. An online petition calling for the bill to be scrapped garnered half a million signatures while hundreds of thousands took to social media to vent their frustration. "It's crazy if this bill is passed, crazy! What is this country turning into?" movie director Joko Anwar tweeted to his 1.7 million followers. The sweeping proposals call for a wider interpretation of Indonesia's blasphemy law, which has seen members of religious minority groups, including Christians and Buddhists, prosecuted in the past. They also sought to criminalise "insulting" the president or vice president, which critics said would be a blow to free speech. People who have pre-marital or extramarital sex could face between six months and one year in jail, as well as fines, under the mooted changes. There were also penalties for anyone "showing or offering" contraception to minors under 18. The revisions appeared to bar parents from teaching their children about sex or contraception in favour of authorised government workers. "Sex education is important. Period," one woman wrote on Twitter. "I'd rather go to jail than see my daughter raped by her boyfriend just because she doesn't know that sex has to be consensual."

Indonesia president delays law criminalising sex outside of marriage

In what is being hailed as a step towards gender equality, brides in Bangladesh will no longer have to declare if they are `virgins` on marriage certificates, as per a High Court ruling.

According to Bangladesh`s Muslim marriage and divorce laws, a bride currently needs to select from amongst three options on a marriage certificate which are `kumari` (means virgin), widow or divorced, according to CNN. However, the same is not required of men.

Three rights groups had filed a petition against the term in 2014. They had described the practice to be discriminatory.

As per the ruling, the word `kumari` will be replaced with `unmarried`. The other two options will remain the same.

As for grooms, they will now be required to disclose their marital status as well.

However, the full version of the ruling will be released in October. The Bangladeshi government`s compliance with the court order also remains unclear.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In what is being hailed as a step towards gender equality, brides in Bangladesh will no longer have to declare if they are `virgins` on marriage certificates, as per a High Court ruling.

In what is being hailed as a step towards gender equality, brides in Bangladesh will no longer have to declare if they are `virgins` on marriage certificates, as per a High Court ruling. According to Bangladesh`s Muslim marriage and divorce laws, a bride currently needs to select from amongst three options on a marriage certificate which are `kumari` (means virgin), widow or divorced, according to CNN. However, the same is not required of men. Three rights groups had filed a petition against the term in 2014. They had described the practice to be discriminatory. As per the ruling, the word `kumari` will be replaced with `unmarried`. The other two options will remain the same. As for grooms, they will now be required to disclose their marital status as well. However, the full version of the ruling will be released in October. The Bangladeshi government`s compliance with the court order also remains unclear.

'Virgin' to be removed from marriage certificates in Bangladesh

Transgender couple ties the knot in a traditional Bengali wedding ceremony, amidst friends and family.

Transgender couple tie the knot in a traditional ceremony in Bengal

Taiwan became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-parliament-to-vote-on-asias-first-gay-marriage-bill-219288">first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage</a> on Friday, as thousands of demonstrators outside parliament cheered and waved rainbow flags, despite deep divisions over marriage equality.

Lawmakers from the majority Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) backed the bill, which passed 66 to 27, though the measure could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen's bid to win a second term in presidential elections next year.

Despite heavy rain, some demonstrators outside parliament in Taipei, the capital, embraced tearfully while others hailed the vote with chants of "Asia's first," and "Way to go, Taiwan!"

The bill, which offers same-sex couples similar legal protections for marriage as heterosexuals, will take effect after Tsai signs it into law.

"Today, we have a chance to make history and show the world that progressive values can take root in an East Asian society," Tsai wrote on Twitter before the vote.

"Today, we can show the world that #LoveWins," added Tsai, who campaigned on a promise of marriage equality in the 2016 presidential election.

It was not immediately clear, however, if same-sex couples are entitled to key rights, such as adoption and cross-national marriage, with parliament continuing to discuss the measure on Friday.

The vote followed a years-long tussle over marriage equality that culminated in a 2017 declaration by the democratic island's constitutional court giving same-sex couples the right to marry, and setting a deadline of May 24 for legislation.

Taipei's colourful gay pride parade, one of Asia's largest, puts on display every year the vibrancy of the island's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

Challenge for Tsai

However, Friday's measure could prove a challenge to Tsai's bid for a second term in a January presidential election, after a poll defeat last year for her DPP was blamed partly on criticism of her reform agenda, including marriage equality.

Late last year, Taiwan voters opposed same-sex marriage in a series of referendums, defining marriage as being between a man and a woman, while seeking a special law for such unions.

"How can we ignore the result of the referendums, which demonstrated the will of the people?" John Wu, a legislator from the opposition Kuomintang party, asked parliament before Friday's vote.

"Can we find an appropriate compromise solution? We need more dialogue in society."

Conservative groups that oppose same-sex marriage said the legislation disrespected the people's will.

"The will of some seven million people in the referendum has been trampled," one group, the Coalition for the Happiness of Our Next Generation said in a statement. "The massive public will strike back in 2020."

Australia passed laws allowing same-sex marriage in 2017, but such unions are not recognised by Hong Kong and neighbouring China, which regards Taiwan as a wayward province to be brought back into the fold by force if necessary.

Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage on Friday, as thousands of demonstrators outside parliament cheered and waved rainbow flags, despite deep divisions over marriage equality.

Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage on Friday, as thousands of demonstrators outside parliament cheered and waved rainbow flags, despite deep divisions over marriage equality. Lawmakers from the majority Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) backed the bill, which passed 66 to 27, though the measure could complicate President Tsai Ing-wen's bid to win a second term in presidential elections next year. Despite heavy rain, some demonstrators outside parliament in Taipei, the capital, embraced tearfully while others hailed the vote with chants of "Asia's first," and "Way to go, Taiwan!" The bill, which offers same-sex couples similar legal protections for marriage as heterosexuals, will take effect after Tsai signs it into law. "Today, we have a chance to make history and show the world that progressive values can take root in an East Asian society," Tsai wrote on Twitter before the vote. "Today, we can show the world that #LoveWins," added Tsai, who campaigned on a promise of marriage equality in the 2016 presidential election. It was not immediately clear, however, if same-sex couples are entitled to key rights, such as adoption and cross-national marriage, with parliament continuing to discuss the measure on Friday. The vote followed a years-long tussle over marriage equality that culminated in a 2017 declaration by the democratic island's constitutional court giving same-sex couples the right to marry, and setting a deadline of May 24 for legislation. Taipei's colourful gay pride parade, one of Asia's largest, puts on display every year the vibrancy of the island's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Challenge for Tsai However, Friday's measure could prove a challenge to Tsai's bid for a second term in a January presidential election, after a poll defeat last year for her DPP was blamed partly on criticism of her reform agenda, including marriage equality. Late last year, Taiwan voters opposed same-sex marriage in a series of referendums, defining marriage as being between a man and a woman, while seeking a special law for such unions. "How can we ignore the result of the referendums, which demonstrated the will of the people?" John Wu, a legislator from the opposition Kuomintang party, asked parliament before Friday's vote. "Can we find an appropriate compromise solution? We need more dialogue in society." Conservative groups that oppose same-sex marriage said the legislation disrespected the people's will. "The will of some seven million people in the referendum has been trampled," one group, the Coalition for the Happiness of Our Next Generation said in a statement. "The massive public will strike back in 2020." Australia passed laws allowing same-sex marriage in 2017, but such unions are not recognised by Hong Kong and neighbouring China, which regards Taiwan as a wayward province to be brought back into the fold by force if necessary.

Taiwan becomes first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage

Just after the announcement of separation, few romantic texts sent by the CEO of Amazon Jeff Bezos to American news anchor Lauren Sanchez have been leaked by The Enquirer.

Earlier this week, Jeff Bezos and his wife MacKenzie Bezos claimed that they are getting divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Lauren Sanchez is the former co-host of 'Good Day' show.

&nbsp;Moreover, the National Enquirer has released purported texts between Bezos and Sanchez that could throw a new light to their relationship, E! News reported.

In a message obtained by the outlet, the CEO wrote, "I love you, alive girl. I will show you with my body, and my lips and my eyes, very soon."

In another text, "I want to smell you, I want to breathe you in. I want to hold you tight.. I want to kiss your lips.. I love you. I am in love with you."

However, the authenticity of messages is not yet confirmed by Jeff's team.

Further, a lawyer representing Jeff said it was "widely known" that Jeff and MacKenzie had been "long separated," E!online quoted the lawyer telling The Enquirer.

Earlier, the couple published a joint statement on Wednesday on the Amazon CEO's Twitter account stating that the two will get a divorce but continue to cherish each other as friends.

"After a long period of loving exploration and trial separation, we have decided to divorce and continue our shared lives as friends," the tweet read.

Concluding their gratitude, the couple further wrote: "We feel incredibly lucky to have found each other and deeply grateful for every one of the years we have been married to each other. If we had known we would separate after 25 years, we would do it all again."

The couple also said that they are looking forward to working together as "parents, friends, partners in ventures and projects, and as individuals pursuing ventures and adventures."

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<a href="https://t.co/Gb10BDb0x0">pic.twitter.com/Gb10BDb0x0</a>
— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffBezos/status/1083004911380393985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Jeff and MacKenzie have four children.&nbsp;

Just after the announcement of separation, few romantic texts sent by the CEO of Amazon Jeff Bezos to American news anchor Lauren Sanchez have been leaked by The Enquirer.

Just after the announcement of separation, few romantic texts sent by the CEO of Amazon Jeff Bezos to American news anchor Lauren Sanchez have been leaked by The Enquirer. Earlier this week, Jeff Bezos and his wife MacKenzie Bezos claimed that they are getting divorced after 25 years of marriage. Lauren Sanchez is the former co-host of 'Good Day' show. Moreover, the National Enquirer has released purported texts between Bezos and Sanchez that could throw a new light to their relationship, E! News reported. In a message obtained by the outlet, the CEO wrote, "I love you, alive girl. I will show you with my body, and my lips and my eyes, very soon." In another text, "I want to smell you, I want to breathe you in. I want to hold you tight.. I want to kiss your lips.. I love you. I am in love with you." However, the authenticity of messages is not yet confirmed by Jeff's team. Further, a lawyer representing Jeff said it was "widely known" that Jeff and MacKenzie had been "long separated," E!online quoted the lawyer telling The Enquirer. Earlier, the couple published a joint statement on Wednesday on the Amazon CEO's Twitter account stating that the two will get a divorce but continue to cherish each other as friends. "After a long period of loving exploration and trial separation, we have decided to divorce and continue our shared lives as friends," the tweet read. Concluding their gratitude, the couple further wrote: "We feel incredibly lucky to have found each other and deeply grateful for every one of the years we have been married to each other. If we had known we would separate after 25 years, we would do it all again." The couple also said that they are looking forward to working together as "parents, friends, partners in ventures and projects, and as individuals pursuing ventures and adventures." pic.twitter.com/Gb10BDb0x0 — Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) January 9, 2019 × Jeff and MacKenzie have four children.

Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez secret romantic texts leaked just after divorce announcement

After more than three decades together, Wang Tien-ming and Ho Hsiang finally decided to tie the knot when Taiwan's top court ruled last year that same-sex marriage must be legalised.&nbsp;

But those wedding plans are on hold after conservative groups won a referendum battle over equal marriage which couples fear could water down their newly won rights.&nbsp;

The original landmark court decision in May 2017 made Taiwan the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage -– it ruled the change must be implemented within two years and sparked a wave of optimism in the LGBT community.

But almost 18 months have already passed as the government drags its feet in the face of conservative opposition.&nbsp;

A referendum on whether marriage should only be recognised as between a man and a woman in Taiwan's Civil Code won <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/anti-gay-marriage-groups-win-taiwan-referendum-battle-179211">more than seven million votes Saturday</a>, as did another calling for same-sex unions to be regulated under a separate law.&nbsp;

Gay rights activists had proposed that the Civil Code should give same-sex couples equal marriage rights, but only garnered three million votes.&nbsp; 
Ho said that after the original court ruling he believed he and Wang would be granted rights given to heterosexual married partners, including recognition as next of kin.

This made the couple think they could at last buy a house together, Wang told AFP, assured that if one of them died the other would inherit.&nbsp;

Wang, 57, is also the main carer for Ho, 75, who suffers from Parkinson's disease. He describes their relationship as "love at first sight".

"I want to get married because I want to say to the world: 'I don't want to be deprived of what is my basic right'," Wang said.

'Second class citizens'&nbsp;

Although the government has made clear the referendum results would not impact the court's original decision to legalise gay marriage, which should automatically be implemented next May, pro-gay marriage campaigners worry that their newly won rights will be weakened.&nbsp;

The court did not specify how it wanted gay marriage to be brought in, leaving room for conservative groups to call for separate regulations.&nbsp;

As Saturday's conservative referendums passed the threshold of 25 per cent of eligible voters, the government must by law take steps to reflect the result. 
Ho said he would not accept anything less than the amendment of the existing marriage law as laid out in the Civil Code to put gay couples on an equal footing with heterosexual couples.&nbsp;

"Having a special marriage law (for gay couples) means we are like second class citizens," he told AFP, adding that having a two-tier system would dent Taiwan's reputation as a trailblazer for equal marriage rights on the international stage.

"The Taiwanese value equality and freedom. If the gay community is been treated like second class citizens, where's the equality? This is our soft power," he said.&nbsp;

Taiwan's government has not yet responded to the referendum result and what impact it will have.&nbsp;

Kuo Huai-wen and her partner of 13 years had also been hoping to marry on the first day that the court's decision was implemented -- a day that is yet to come.&nbsp;

Kuo, 40, said she was "saddened and disappointed" over the referendum result, but still felt encouraged that three million people had backed the pro-gay marriage vote.&nbsp;

Kuo is pregnant with the couple's second child and said they would be forced to accept a union under a separate law for the sake of their children, even though they do not agree with it and want equal marriage rights.

"We have to be practical as we have kids and we can't afford to have all or nothing," said Kuo.

"We will register even if it's under a separate law, not because we are satisfied with that but because we need immediate protections."

After more than three decades together, Wang Tien-ming and Ho Hsiang finally decided to tie the knot when Taiwan's top court ruled last year that same-sex marriage must be legalised.

After more than three decades together, Wang Tien-ming and Ho Hsiang finally decided to tie the knot when Taiwan's top court ruled last year that same-sex marriage must be legalised. But those wedding plans are on hold after conservative groups won a referendum battle over equal marriage which couples fear could water down their newly won rights. The original landmark court decision in May 2017 made Taiwan the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage -– it ruled the change must be implemented within two years and sparked a wave of optimism in the LGBT community. But almost 18 months have already passed as the government drags its feet in the face of conservative opposition. A referendum on whether marriage should only be recognised as between a man and a woman in Taiwan's Civil Code won more than seven million votes Saturday, as did another calling for same-sex unions to be regulated under a separate law. Gay rights activists had proposed that the Civil Code should give same-sex couples equal marriage rights, but only garnered three million votes. Ho said that after the original court ruling he believed he and Wang would be granted rights given to heterosexual married partners, including recognition as next of kin. This made the couple think they could at last buy a house together, Wang told AFP, assured that if one of them died the other would inherit. Wang, 57, is also the main carer for Ho, 75, who suffers from Parkinson's disease. He describes their relationship as "love at first sight". "I want to get married because I want to say to the world: 'I don't want to be deprived of what is my basic right'," Wang said. 'Second class citizens' Although the government has made clear the referendum results would not impact the court's original decision to legalise gay marriage, which should automatically be implemented next May, pro-gay marriage campaigners worry that their newly won rights will be weakened. The court did not specify how it wanted gay marriage to be brought in, leaving room for conservative groups to call for separate regulations. As Saturday's conservative referendums passed the threshold of 25 per cent of eligible voters, the government must by law take steps to reflect the result. Ho said he would not accept anything less than the amendment of the existing marriage law as laid out in the Civil Code to put gay couples on an equal footing with heterosexual couples. "Having a special marriage law (for gay couples) means we are like second class citizens," he told AFP, adding that having a two-tier system would dent Taiwan's reputation as a trailblazer for equal marriage rights on the international stage. "The Taiwanese value equality and freedom. If the gay community is been treated like second class citizens, where's the equality? This is our soft power," he said. Taiwan's government has not yet responded to the referendum result and what impact it will have. Kuo Huai-wen and her partner of 13 years had also been hoping to marry on the first day that the court's decision was implemented -- a day that is yet to come. Kuo, 40, said she was "saddened and disappointed" over the referendum result, but still felt encouraged that three million people had backed the pro-gay marriage vote. Kuo is pregnant with the couple's second child and said they would be forced to accept a union under a separate law for the sake of their children, even though they do not agree with it and want equal marriage rights. "We have to be practical as we have kids and we can't afford to have all or nothing," said Kuo. "We will register even if it's under a separate law, not because we are satisfied with that but because we need immediate protections."

Taiwan's same-sex couples put future on hold after vote defeat

Rumored couple <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/in-photos-arjun-kapoor-malaika-arora-return-to-mumbai-after-celebrating-her-birthday-in-italy-173304">Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor</a> are planning to tie the knot next year, reports have surfaced recently.&nbsp;

Karan Johar had shared a video on Instagram where he is seen asking Malaika weather she is going all alone, to which she answered,''Let it be a burning question".

The filmmaker's video may have dropped&nbsp;a hint about a new beginning in her life when he asked her if it is a "stop" sign and then pulled her leg by asking 
"I believe you are starting something though!"

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BpYv4_PAD7f/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">IGT mornings!!! #toodles @malaikaarorakhanofficial @kirronkhermp</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/karanjohar/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Karan Johar</a> (@karanjohar) on <time datetime="2018-10-26T06:53:59+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Oct 25, 2018 at 11:53pm PDT</time>
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The duo was recently seen vacationing in Italy, for Malaika's 45th birthday. The couple was also seen <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/let-it-be-a-burning-question-malaika-arora-khan-173422">holding hands</a> at the Milan airport.&nbsp;

Malaika Arora (who was previously married to Salman Khan’s brother, Arbaaz) also walked hand-in-hand with Arjun on stage when he had come&nbsp;to India's Got Talent to promote his film 'Namaste England', before he danced with a contestant.

Malaika raised questions around her relationship with Arjun when the two were spotted attending the Lakme Fashion Week. They sat next to each other as Arjun came with sisters Janhvi and Khushi.&nbsp;

Malaika and Arbaaz got divorced in 2016 and he has been clicked on several occasions with new girlfriend&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/in-pics-arbaaz-khans-new-girlfriend-giorgia-andriani-ex-wife-malaika-arora-spotted-at-arpita-khans-ganesh-chaturthi-party-165532">Georgia Andriani</a>. It is said that Arbaaz and Georgia are pretty serious about seeing each other.&nbsp;

Rumored couple Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor are planning to tie the knot next year, reports have surfaced recently. Karan Johar had shared a video on Instagram where he is seen asking Malaika weather she is going all alone, to which she answered,''Let it be a burning question".

Rumored couple Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor are planning to tie the knot next year, reports have surfaced recently. Karan Johar had shared a video on Instagram where he is seen asking Malaika weather she is going all alone, to which she answered,''Let it be a burning question". The filmmaker's video may have dropped a hint about a new beginning in her life when he asked her if it is a "stop" sign and then pulled her leg by asking "I believe you are starting something though!" View this post on Instagram IGT mornings!!! #toodles @malaikaarorakhanofficial @kirronkhermp A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) on Oct 25, 2018 at 11:53pm PDT × The duo was recently seen vacationing in Italy, for Malaika's 45th birthday. The couple was also seen holding hands at the Milan airport. Malaika Arora (who was previously married to Salman Khan’s brother, Arbaaz) also walked hand-in-hand with Arjun on stage when he had come to India's Got Talent to promote his film 'Namaste England', before he danced with a contestant. Malaika raised questions around her relationship with Arjun when the two were spotted attending the Lakme Fashion Week. They sat next to each other as Arjun came with sisters Janhvi and Khushi. Malaika and Arbaaz got divorced in 2016 and he has been clicked on several occasions with new girlfriend Georgia Andriani. It is said that Arbaaz and Georgia are pretty serious about seeing each other.

Has Malaika Arora 'started' something with Arjun Kapoor?

A referendum in Romania this weekend to define marriage explicitly as between a man and woman underlines the largely East-West split in Europe over same-sex unions.

Western Europe: pioneers

In 2001 the Netherlands became the first country in the world to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in a civil ceremony.

Fifteen European countries have followed: Belgium, Britain (but not Northern Ireland, which only accepts civil partnerships), Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, with Austria due to join next year.

In several of these countries, gay marriage had been preceded by civil partnerships, which come with fewer rights, Denmark being the pioneer in 1989.

Some European countries still only allow such partnerships, rather than marriage, including Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy and Switzerland.

Slovenians also allow civil partnerships but in 2015 rejected in a referendum a proposal to legalise gay marriage.

Bans in the east

In June 2018 the Czech government backed draft legislation that would make the country the first post-communist member of the European Union to legalise same-sex marriage.

But most Eastern European countries allow neither gay partnerships nor marriages, including Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia.

In 2014 Estonia became the first former Soviet republic to authorise same-sex civil unions.

In Russia homosexuality was considered a crime up to 1993 and a mental illness until 1999. Now legal, a 2013 law however punishes the promotion of homosexuality among minors.

West opens to gay adoption

Western Europe also leads the way on the rights of same-sex couples to adopt children, whether within marriage or civil partnerships.

This is allowed in Austria, Belgium, Britain, Denmark, France, Germany, Malta and The Netherlands, Spain and Sweden.&nbsp;

Other countries, like Finland and Slovenia, allow gay people to adopt their partner's children.

Medically Assisted Procreation (MAP) is allowed for lesbian couples in Austria, Belgium, Britain, The Netherlands, Spain and the Nordic countries. France is examining whether to make such a move.

Most European countries, however, ban surrogacy although the use of surrogate mothers is allowed -- as long as they are not paid -- in Belgium, Britain and The Netherlands. In an exception, Greece in 2014 authorised paid surrogacy.

Further afield, homosexual couples can also marry in Canada since 2005 and in the United States since 2015, as well as in four Latin American countries: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Uruguay.&nbsp;

South Africa in 2006 became the sole African nation to allow gay marriage.&nbsp;

A referendum in Romania this weekend to define marriage explicitly as between a man and woman underlines the largely East-West split in Europe over same-sex unions.

A referendum in Romania this weekend to define marriage explicitly as between a man and woman underlines the largely East-West split in Europe over same-sex unions. Western Europe: pioneers In 2001 the Netherlands became the first country in the world to allow gay and lesbian couples to marry in a civil ceremony. Fifteen European countries have followed: Belgium, Britain (but not Northern Ireland, which only accepts civil partnerships), Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, with Austria due to join next year. In several of these countries, gay marriage had been preceded by civil partnerships, which come with fewer rights, Denmark being the pioneer in 1989. Some European countries still only allow such partnerships, rather than marriage, including Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy and Switzerland. Slovenians also allow civil partnerships but in 2015 rejected in a referendum a proposal to legalise gay marriage. Bans in the east In June 2018 the Czech government backed draft legislation that would make the country the first post-communist member of the European Union to legalise same-sex marriage. But most Eastern European countries allow neither gay partnerships nor marriages, including Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. In 2014 Estonia became the first former Soviet republic to authorise same-sex civil unions. In Russia homosexuality was considered a crime up to 1993 and a mental illness until 1999. Now legal, a 2013 law however punishes the promotion of homosexuality among minors. West opens to gay adoption Western Europe also leads the way on the rights of same-sex couples to adopt children, whether within marriage or civil partnerships. This is allowed in Austria, Belgium, Britain, Denmark, France, Germany, Malta and The Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. Other countries, like Finland and Slovenia, allow gay people to adopt their partner's children. Medically Assisted Procreation (MAP) is allowed for lesbian couples in Austria, Belgium, Britain, The Netherlands, Spain and the Nordic countries. France is examining whether to make such a move. Most European countries, however, ban surrogacy although the use of surrogate mothers is allowed -- as long as they are not paid -- in Belgium, Britain and The Netherlands. In an exception, Greece in 2014 authorised paid surrogacy. Further afield, homosexual couples can also marry in Canada since 2005 and in the United States since 2015, as well as in four Latin American countries: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Uruguay. South Africa in 2006 became the sole African nation to allow gay marriage.

Gay marriage: Europe split in two

Scores of young Pakistani girls have revealed their horrific tale as to how they were lured into marrying British-Pakistani nationals, who later blackmailed them by shooting videos of their first wedding night.

According to The Nation, victims spilt the beans about such marriage scams being run in areas like Pakistan's Mirpur where accused British nationals woo girls into considering marriage to them on promises of having a great life abroad.

The victims' families were also duped by these fraudsters, as revealed at a recent press conference held at the Kashmir Press Club in Mirpur.

According to those addressing the press conference, an entire gang of British-Pakistani nationals led by Mumtaz also known as 'Taja Pehlwan' targetted young girls, especially in Mirpur. Mumtaz himself developed intimate relationships with some of these girls, assuring them of a good life abroad if they married him.

More than 15 girls were reportedly targeted by this group. The men used to marry them and then shoot intimate videos of their wedding nights. Later, these girls were threatened by their respective spouses with release of these videos online.

Some of these Pakistani men even refused to take their wives abroad and would have several wives at any given point of time and, if any of them sought divorce, they would be charged with false cases of theft.

This way, Mumtaz managed to marry seven girls, Anzar five and Muhammad three. Two of Mumtaz's family members were also involved in this marriage-scam.

The girls after long periods of torture and sexual abuse were finally able to narrate their ordeal at the press conference.

The accused are currently absconding. Victims also revealed that Mumtaz is heading a drug-peddling gang with the support of his nephews Muhammad Ali and Anzar Ali.

The girls said they were forced to participate in illegal drug operations too and asked parents to be vigilant about such human trafficking attempts.&nbsp

Victims spilt the beans about such marriage scams being run in areas like Pakistan's Mirpur where accused British nationals woo girls into considering marriage to them on promises of having a great life abroad.

Scores of young Pakistani girls have revealed their horrific tale as to how they were lured into marrying British-Pakistani nationals, who later blackmailed them by shooting videos of their first wedding night. According to The Nation, victims spilt the beans about such marriage scams being run in areas like Pakistan's Mirpur where accused British nationals woo girls into considering marriage to them on promises of having a great life abroad. The victims' families were also duped by these fraudsters, as revealed at a recent press conference held at the Kashmir Press Club in Mirpur. According to those addressing the press conference, an entire gang of British-Pakistani nationals led by Mumtaz also known as 'Taja Pehlwan' targetted young girls, especially in Mirpur. Mumtaz himself developed intimate relationships with some of these girls, assuring them of a good life abroad if they married him. More than 15 girls were reportedly targeted by this group. The men used to marry them and then shoot intimate videos of their wedding nights. Later, these girls were threatened by their respective spouses with release of these videos online. Some of these Pakistani men even refused to take their wives abroad and would have several wives at any given point of time and, if any of them sought divorce, they would be charged with false cases of theft. This way, Mumtaz managed to marry seven girls, Anzar five and Muhammad three. Two of Mumtaz's family members were also involved in this marriage-scam. The girls after long periods of torture and sexual abuse were finally able to narrate their ordeal at the press conference. The accused are currently absconding. Victims also revealed that Mumtaz is heading a drug-peddling gang with the support of his nephews Muhammad Ali and Anzar Ali. The girls said they were forced to participate in illegal drug operations too and asked parents to be vigilant about such human trafficking attempts.

Marriage racket run by UK-based Pakistanis busted

Navi Mumbai Commissioner on Saturday rejected 1993 Mumbai blasts case convict Abu Salem's parole application which he applied for his marriage.&nbsp

Salem had sought parole for 45 days to get married for a second time to Sayed Bahar Kausar.&nbsp

Salem is currently lodged Taloja jail for his role in the 1993 serial blasts in Mumbai that had killed 257 and injured 713 people.&nbsp

He was sentenced to life imprisonment by a special Terrorist and Disruptive Activity (TADA) Court last year.

Delhi Court defers order in the extortion case

The Patiala House Court on April 9 had deferred order in the 2002 extortion case, due to unavailability of the concerned judge.&nbsp

This came nearly two weeks after the final arguments were presented before a Delhi Court in the aforementioned case against noted gangster Abu Salem.&nbsp

Although Salem had earlier claimed that the prosecution did not have enough evidence against him in the case, a fresh production warrant was issued against him in February.

Through his lawyer, the gangster had also claimed that his trial in the case violated an order by which he was extradited to India from Portugal in 2005. On a related noted, Salem is facing trial for allegedly demanding Rs 5 crore as protection money from Delhi businessman Ashok Gupta in 2002. While he has already been granted bail in the case, he continues to be in jail for his involvement in various other cases, including the serial blasts which rocked Mumbai in 1993.

(With inputs from ANI)

Salem is currently lodged Taloja jail for his role in the 1993 serial blasts in Mumbai that had killed 257 and injured 713 people.

Navi Mumbai Commissioner on Saturday rejected 1993 Mumbai blasts case convict Abu Salem's parole application which he applied for his marriage. Salem had sought parole for 45 days to get married for a second time to Sayed Bahar Kausar. Salem is currently lodged Taloja jail for his role in the 1993 serial blasts in Mumbai that had killed 257 and injured 713 people. He was sentenced to life imprisonment by a special Terrorist and Disruptive Activity (TADA) Court last year. Delhi Court defers order in the extortion case The Patiala House Court on April 9 had deferred order in the 2002 extortion case, due to unavailability of the concerned judge. This came nearly two weeks after the final arguments were presented before a Delhi Court in the aforementioned case against noted gangster Abu Salem. Although Salem had earlier claimed that the prosecution did not have enough evidence against him in the case, a fresh production warrant was issued against him in February. Through his lawyer, the gangster had also claimed that his trial in the case violated an order by which he was extradited to India from Portugal in 2005. On a related noted, Salem is facing trial for allegedly demanding Rs 5 crore as protection money from Delhi businessman Ashok Gupta in 2002. While he has already been granted bail in the case, he continues to be in jail for his involvement in various other cases, including the serial blasts which rocked Mumbai in 1993. (With inputs from ANI)

Mumbai serial blasts convict Abu Salem's parole rejected, marriage on hold

Supreme Court today acted on a plea filed by a 26-year-old woman that sought to make consent of a couple mandatory before the marriage takes place under the Hindu Marriage Act.&nbsp;

The plea noted that both the boy as well as the girl should willfully agree to proceed with the marriage before the ceremony.&nbsp;

The apex court today issued a notice to the Karnataka government and the Central government after hearing the plea.&nbsp;The Court added that it won't interfere to issue a declaration separately.&nbsp;

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Supreme Court today issued notice to Karnataka and Union of India after hearing a 26 year-old woman's plea seeking protection and direction for making prior consent of a boy & girl mandatory before marriage under Hindu Marriage Act
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983996716285382656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The plea was filed by the daughter of a Karnataka politician. She fled after her wedding ceremony as she did not approve of the marriage.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court also asked the police to give protection to the woman.&nbsp;

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Supreme Court also asked the police to give protection to the woman, the daughter of a Karnataka politician, who fled after her wedding ceremony as she did not approve of the marriage
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983996718864912385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud said that it would treat the petition as a habeas corpus plea.&nbsp;

The constitutionality of certain provisions of the Hindu Marriage Act will not be dealt with.&nbsp;

The plea was filed by the daughter of a Karnataka politician. She fled after her wedding ceremony as she did not approve of the marriage

Supreme Court today acted on a plea filed by a 26-year-old woman that sought to make consent of a couple mandatory before the marriage takes place under the Hindu Marriage Act. The plea noted that both the boy as well as the girl should willfully agree to proceed with the marriage before the ceremony. The apex court today issued a notice to the Karnataka government and the Central government after hearing the plea. The Court added that it won't interfere to issue a declaration separately. Supreme Court today issued notice to Karnataka and Union of India after hearing a 26 year-old woman's plea seeking protection and direction for making prior consent of a boy & girl mandatory before marriage under Hindu Marriage Act — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2018 × The plea was filed by the daughter of a Karnataka politician. She fled after her wedding ceremony as she did not approve of the marriage. The Supreme Court also asked the police to give protection to the woman. Supreme Court also asked the police to give protection to the woman, the daughter of a Karnataka politician, who fled after her wedding ceremony as she did not approve of the marriage — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2018 × A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud said that it would treat the petition as a habeas corpus plea. The constitutionality of certain provisions of the Hindu Marriage Act will not be dealt with.

Make consent of boy and girl mandatory before marriage: Plea in Supreme Court

Wake up to a sad Tuesday as celebrity couple Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan Tatum who always looked so much in love called it quits earlier this morning.&nbsp;

Announcing an end to their fairytale romance, Channing Tatum took to Twitter to share the joint statement: “Hey world! So…We have something we would like to share. First off, it feels odd that we have to share this kind of thing with everyone, but it’s a consequence of the lives we’ve chosen to lead, which we also happen to be deeply grateful for. We’re living in an incredible moment in time, but it’s also a time where truth can easily get distorted into ‘alternative facts’ ? &nbsp;So we want to share the truth so you know that if you didn’t read it here then it’s most certainly fiction.”

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— Channing Tatum (@channingtatum) <a href="https://twitter.com/channingtatum/status/980976635741638657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The statement then went on to describe the reason behind their separation emphasising that there are “ no secrets nor salacious events at the root of our decision”. The post continues: “We have lovingly chosen to separate as a couple. We fell deeply in love so many years ago and have had a magical journey together. Absolutely nothing has changed about how much we love one another, but love is a beautiful adventure that is taking us on different paths for now. There are no secrets nor salacious events at the root of our decision — just two best-friends realizing it’s time to take some space and help each other live the most joyous, fulfilled lives as possible. We are still a family and will always be loving dedicated parents to Everly. We won’t be commenting beyond this, and we thank you all in advance for respecting our family’s privacy. Sending lots of love to everyone, Chan&Jenna.”

Jenna also duplicated the post on her social media profile.&nbsp;

The two actors met in 2006 while shooting for “Step Up”, a dance film in which they played high school students from different sides of the tracks who fall for each other.&nbsp;

The couple was married for 9 years and share a 4-year-old daughter, Everly. 
&nbsp;

The two met during the shooting of their film 'Step Up'

Wake up to a sad Tuesday as celebrity couple Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan Tatum who always looked so much in love called it quits earlier this morning. Announcing an end to their fairytale romance, Channing Tatum took to Twitter to share the joint statement: “Hey world! So…We have something we would like to share. First off, it feels odd that we have to share this kind of thing with everyone, but it’s a consequence of the lives we’ve chosen to lead, which we also happen to be deeply grateful for. We’re living in an incredible moment in time, but it’s also a time where truth can easily get distorted into ‘alternative facts’ ? So we want to share the truth so you know that if you didn’t read it here then it’s most certainly fiction.” pic.twitter.com/y6BBoFMOBz — Channing Tatum (@channingtatum) April 3, 2018 × The statement then went on to describe the reason behind their separation emphasising that there are “ no secrets nor salacious events at the root of our decision”. The post continues: “We have lovingly chosen to separate as a couple. We fell deeply in love so many years ago and have had a magical journey together. Absolutely nothing has changed about how much we love one another, but love is a beautiful adventure that is taking us on different paths for now. There are no secrets nor salacious events at the root of our decision — just two best-friends realizing it’s time to take some space and help each other live the most joyous, fulfilled lives as possible. We are still a family and will always be loving dedicated parents to Everly. We won’t be commenting beyond this, and we thank you all in advance for respecting our family’s privacy. Sending lots of love to everyone, Chan&Jenna.” Jenna also duplicated the post on her social media profile. The two actors met in 2006 while shooting for “Step Up”, a dance film in which they played high school students from different sides of the tracks who fall for each other. The couple was married for 9 years and share a 4-year-old daughter, Everly.

Celebrity couple Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan split after 9 years of marriage

Richest Indian Mukesh Ambani&#39;s elder son Akash will marry his schoolmate Shloka Mehta, the youngest daughter of diamantaire Russell Mehta, in early December.

The development confirms PTI news break of March 4 that Sholka is the one the Ambani family had chosen for Akash.

Sources said the two families and close friends gathered at a plush five-star resort in Goa yesterday for a &#39;get-to-know-each-other&#39; before the formal engagement.

Though the two families have been talking to each other for the wedding for sometime now, the plans were formalised at the Goa event, which was planned before Holi.

The marriage is planned for early December, with celebrations spread across 4-5 days, they said, adding the possible dates may be December 8-12 at the Oberoi, Mumbai.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bgtxgbrj0c4/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#akashambani</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ambani_akash/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Akash Ambani</a> (@ambani_akash) on <time datetime="2018-03-24T17:59:17+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 24, 2018 at 10:59am PDT</time>
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&nbsp;

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It&#39;s official now 
Aakash Ambani engaged with Shloka<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/oSoSS5fFiA">pic.twitter.com/oSoSS5fFiA</a>
&mdash; stockguru07 (@stockguru07) <a href="https://twitter.com/stockguru07/status/977615716437319680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While e-mails sent to both families remained unanswered, pictures of the Saturday event are available on social media.

Besides parents Mukesh and Nita Ambani, grandmother Kokilaben was also present at the event yesterday.

Akash is the eldest son of India&#39;s richest man Mukesh Ambani and Shloka Mehta is the daughter of Russell Mehta, who heads Rosy Blue Diamonds.

The Ambanis and Mehtas know each other well and Akash and Shloka studied together at the Dhirubhai Ambani International School.

Neither families had responded to PTI queries when it first reported the story on March 4, but a source close to the Ambani family had discounted the then talk of March 24 being the engagement date, saying &quot;No dates of either the wedding or engagement of Akash Ambani have been finalised.&quot;&nbsp;

&quot;As and when any good news is to be shared, the family will be delighted to share with everyone,&quot; the source had said then.

Akash and twin sister Isha are the eldest of the three children of Mukesh and Nita Ambani. Akash is on the board of Reliance Jio, the group&#39;s fast growing telecom venture.

Shloka, who after finishing schooling at Dhirubhai Ambani International School in 2009 went on to study anthropology at Princeton University and did her masters in law at the London School of Economics and Political Science, is a director on Rosy Blue Foundation since July 2014. She is also a co-founder of ConnectFor, which matches volunteers with NGOs that need them.

She is youngest of three children of Russell and Mona Mehta.

Sources said the two families and close friends gathered at a plush five-star resort in Goa yesterday for a 'get-to-know-each-other' before the formal engagement

Richest Indian Mukesh Ambani's elder son Akash will marry his schoolmate Shloka Mehta, the youngest daughter of diamantaire Russell Mehta, in early December. The development confirms PTI news break of March 4 that Sholka is the one the Ambani family had chosen for Akash. Sources said the two families and close friends gathered at a plush five-star resort in Goa yesterday for a 'get-to-know-each-other' before the formal engagement. Though the two families have been talking to each other for the wedding for sometime now, the plans were formalised at the Goa event, which was planned before Holi. The marriage is planned for early December, with celebrations spread across 4-5 days, they said, adding the possible dates may be December 8-12 at the Oberoi, Mumbai. #akashambani A post shared by Akash Ambani (@ambani_akash) on Mar 24, 2018 at 10:59am PDT × It's official now Aakash Ambani engaged with Shloka#IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/oSoSS5fFiA — stockguru07 (@stockguru07) March 24, 2018 × While e-mails sent to both families remained unanswered, pictures of the Saturday event are available on social media. Besides parents Mukesh and Nita Ambani, grandmother Kokilaben was also present at the event yesterday. Akash is the eldest son of India's richest man Mukesh Ambani and Shloka Mehta is the daughter of Russell Mehta, who heads Rosy Blue Diamonds. The Ambanis and Mehtas know each other well and Akash and Shloka studied together at the Dhirubhai Ambani International School. Neither families had responded to PTI queries when it first reported the story on March 4, but a source close to the Ambani family had discounted the then talk of March 24 being the engagement date, saying "No dates of either the wedding or engagement of Akash Ambani have been finalised." "As and when any good news is to be shared, the family will be delighted to share with everyone," the source had said then. Akash and twin sister Isha are the eldest of the three children of Mukesh and Nita Ambani. Akash is on the board of Reliance Jio, the group's fast growing telecom venture. Shloka, who after finishing schooling at Dhirubhai Ambani International School in 2009 went on to study anthropology at Princeton University and did her masters in law at the London School of Economics and Political Science, is a director on Rosy Blue Foundation since July 2014. She is also a co-founder of ConnectFor, which matches volunteers with NGOs that need them. She is youngest of three children of Russell and Mona Mehta.

Mukesh Ambani's son Akash to marry diamond magnate's daughter in December

Since Valentine&rsquo;s Day has come and gone, accompanied by its predictable hysteria and histrionics, it would be interesting to examine why the new gen seems to find love and marriage so totally incompatible. Why, after those sacred vows and wow honeymoon, love seems to take on a guest appearance role in most urban marriages.

Love is a many splendoured thing.&nbsp; It is the April rose that only grows in early spring.&nbsp; It is nature&rsquo;s way of giving a reason to living, the golden crown that makes a man a king.&nbsp; Once, on a high and windy hill, in the morning mist, two lovers kissed and time stood still, so rhapsodised the magical crooner Nat King Cole, rocketing cupid into zillions of thrilled romantic hearts! There was also, ugh, a flip side too.&nbsp; This lot declared love is a mango and, worse, Love is just a 4 letter word, re-enforcing the point of kill-joys who believe that love really is just a drug, biologically and emotionally programmed for transience and against all delusions of foreverness.

Women continue to be angry, upset and confused about this scenario.&nbsp; How can all that passion and poetry &ndash; they ask &ndash; during those enchanting halcyon days of courtship suddenly hotfoot into nowhere-land, replaced by a pragmatic, practical &amp; horribly (un) romantic entity?&nbsp; Is it then true that men are more seduced by the thrill of the pursuit than the conquest?&nbsp;

Embarrassing, inconvenient and uncomfortable as it may seem, some men perhaps agree.&nbsp; &ldquo;Maybe we are made that way! I have to confess that it was a huge challenge for me to win Laila, given her classy background, dazzling looks and hoity-toity airs.&nbsp; I managed to do it with an audacious strategy that &ndash; luckily &ndash; worked: Be insulting, dismissive, rude and mock her celebrated good looks, background and lifestyle, all the time telling her how hollow and superficial her life is, how her friends really are her chamchas [not real friends] and how those arrogant airs that she puts on are nothing but a defence mechanism against her total lack of self-confidence. It took time, boss, but it finally worked! Today, she is my wife &ndash; despite the near-cardiac arrest of her parents &ndash; and all is cool.&nbsp; She is grounded, real and even agrees that she lived a fake life.&rdquo; &nbsp;

Laila goes along but makes a slight detour.&nbsp; &ldquo;Sushil is right when he says that he tore my mask to introduce me to myself and the real world.&nbsp; His approach &ndash; rough, direct, aggressive, totally devoid of polish, class or politeness &ndash; was certainly a culture shock but I guess the searing truth got me.&nbsp; Also, the complete lack of the visual playing moony-eyed devotee/chamcha, was attractive. Inverted snobbery, I have to confess, worked.&rdquo;&nbsp; However, after marriage, that very directness that appealed to her so much simmered down.&nbsp; &ldquo;He was a sweet and caring husband but the attractive rough edges, the straight no-bullshit talk had almost vanished. He was busy and distracted.&nbsp; I so miss the turbo-charged volcano he was.&nbsp; He was so so different!&rdquo;

Men complain &ndash; that like lyric, poetry and epic &ndash; passion of the courtship kind will shift from a raging fire to a warm, cosy glow.&nbsp; &ldquo;Boss, like sexual hi-jinks, it has an expiry date too and if you don&rsquo;t agree, drop into your friendly, neighbourhood nursing home for a close-up of over-ambitious guys who insisted on wanting to do &hellip; Yesterday once more!&rdquo;&nbsp; The men add that women totally believe that the earlier junoon and paagalpan is a part of the overall romance package they bought into and if one per cent is missing ever &ndash; in word, thought or deed &ndash; its chaos!&nbsp; Yaar, ab to biwi hain, not gasp-pant object of desire, so calm down, chill and taste the coffee.&nbsp; Kaun samjhaye?!

Women are not amused at this typically chauvinistic, patronising, dumb, insensitive, corny and obtuse observation.&nbsp; Does the chase only rock till the conquest happens and, once achieved, like animals, is devouring the only thing on their mind, instead of fostering, nurturing, caring or bonding, taking the relationship to the next level?&nbsp; Confesses a distraught 28-year-old Ayesha Sehgal, home-maker with two small kids, aged 5 &amp; 3, &ldquo;I was so bewildered and disappointed at Akhil, when soon after our blissed-out courtship phase, honeymoon and early days, he started changing.&nbsp; It started when I became pregnant.&nbsp; I expected special attention and caring which just didn&rsquo;t happen.&nbsp; Forget flowers and gifts, even the earlier tons of calls and texting took a huge hit and became minimal.&nbsp; He was there for me and I&nbsp; really can&rsquo;t put a finger on where he went wrong, but somewhere, the magic had evaporated.&nbsp; I&rsquo;ve often tried to figure out the reason but failed.&nbsp; Many of my friends have similar stories to tell, so all is clearly not well in the state of shaadi-nagar!&rdquo;

Marriage counsellors, behavorial scientists and social commentators believe it has to do with men being chronically lazy and totally secure once the &lsquo;campaign&rsquo; is won.&nbsp; Since it&rsquo;s a done-deal, baat khatam! It also has to do, some believe, and women please don&rsquo;t scream, about women too pulling back on their looks and figure post-marriage and certainly post-kids. &nbsp;

A friend swore he heard his once-very-attractive 26-year-old colleague coolly say &ldquo;yaar, shaadi ho gayi, bachche ho gaye, not competing with Kat or Dips for my hubby&rsquo;s attention, so what&rsquo;s this big obsession of retaining looks and hot figure?&nbsp; That&rsquo;s for the insecure types, compulsive attention-seekers or females who are seen as furniture at home by the hubby.&nbsp; I am in a comfortably secure and happy state. Period.&rdquo; &nbsp;

Truth to tell, there are no easy answers.&nbsp; However, in the year 2015 when both women and men &ndash; in their respective ways &ndash; have taken such giant leaps towards achieving their future, it might be wise to pause and reflect on the basics that define the human condition, factors that colour, grace and caress the most significant space of all &ndash; the space between the heart. &nbsp;

Agreed it&rsquo;s a fiercely consumerist world, success at any cost is the new aphrodisiac and battle of the sexes continues to get more over-heated each day with egos going through the roof, but point is &ndash; why continue to play the silly, stone-age hunter-hunted game?&nbsp; Why believe in your own market-driven mythology and chase shadows leading to doom?&nbsp; Why not just be yourself &ndash; warts and all &ndash; bereft of posturing and masks, celebrating simple, uncomplicated joys like togetherness, loyalty, trust, integrity, caring?&nbsp; Try it, and love could well make a glorious return journey, even post-marriage!

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a fiercely consumerist world, success at any cost is the new aphrodisiac and battle of the sexes continues to get more over-heated each day with egos going through the roof

Since Valentine’s Day has come and gone, accompanied by its predictable hysteria and histrionics, it would be interesting to examine why the new gen seems to find love and marriage so totally incompatible. Why, after those sacred vows and wow honeymoon, love seems to take on a guest appearance role in most urban marriages. Love is a many splendoured thing. It is the April rose that only grows in early spring. It is nature’s way of giving a reason to living, the golden crown that makes a man a king. Once, on a high and windy hill, in the morning mist, two lovers kissed and time stood still, so rhapsodised the magical crooner Nat King Cole, rocketing cupid into zillions of thrilled romantic hearts! There was also, ugh, a flip side too. This lot declared love is a mango and, worse, Love is just a 4 letter word, re-enforcing the point of kill-joys who believe that love really is just a drug, biologically and emotionally programmed for transience and against all delusions of foreverness. Women continue to be angry, upset and confused about this scenario. How can all that passion and poetry – they ask – during those enchanting halcyon days of courtship suddenly hotfoot into nowhere-land, replaced by a pragmatic, practical & horribly (un) romantic entity? Is it then true that men are more seduced by the thrill of the pursuit than the conquest? Embarrassing, inconvenient and uncomfortable as it may seem, some men perhaps agree. “Maybe we are made that way! I have to confess that it was a huge challenge for me to win Laila, given her classy background, dazzling looks and hoity-toity airs. I managed to do it with an audacious strategy that – luckily – worked: Be insulting, dismissive, rude and mock her celebrated good looks, background and lifestyle, all the time telling her how hollow and superficial her life is, how her friends really are her chamchas [not real friends] and how those arrogant airs that she puts on are nothing but a defence mechanism against her total lack of self-confidence. It took time, boss, but it finally worked! Today, she is my wife – despite the near-cardiac arrest of her parents – and all is cool. She is grounded, real and even agrees that she lived a fake life.” Laila goes along but makes a slight detour. “Sushil is right when he says that he tore my mask to introduce me to myself and the real world. His approach – rough, direct, aggressive, totally devoid of polish, class or politeness – was certainly a culture shock but I guess the searing truth got me. Also, the complete lack of the visual playing moony-eyed devotee/chamcha, was attractive. Inverted snobbery, I have to confess, worked.” However, after marriage, that very directness that appealed to her so much simmered down. “He was a sweet and caring husband but the attractive rough edges, the straight no-bullshit talk had almost vanished. He was busy and distracted. I so miss the turbo-charged volcano he was. He was so so different!” Men complain – that like lyric, poetry and epic – passion of the courtship kind will shift from a raging fire to a warm, cosy glow. “Boss, like sexual hi-jinks, it has an expiry date too and if you don’t agree, drop into your friendly, neighbourhood nursing home for a close-up of over-ambitious guys who insisted on wanting to do … Yesterday once more!” The men add that women totally believe that the earlier junoon and paagalpan is a part of the overall romance package they bought into and if one per cent is missing ever – in word, thought or deed – its chaos! Yaar, ab to biwi hain, not gasp-pant object of desire, so calm down, chill and taste the coffee. Kaun samjhaye?! Women are not amused at this typically chauvinistic, patronising, dumb, insensitive, corny and obtuse observation. Does the chase only rock till the conquest happens and, once achieved, like animals, is devouring the only thing on their mind, instead of fostering, nurturing, caring or bonding, taking the relationship to the next level? Confesses a distraught 28-year-old Ayesha Sehgal, home-maker with two small kids, aged 5 & 3, “I was so bewildered and disappointed at Akhil, when soon after our blissed-out courtship phase, honeymoon and early days, he started changing. It started when I became pregnant. I expected special attention and caring which just didn’t happen. Forget flowers and gifts, even the earlier tons of calls and texting took a huge hit and became minimal. He was there for me and I really can’t put a finger on where he went wrong, but somewhere, the magic had evaporated. I’ve often tried to figure out the reason but failed. Many of my friends have similar stories to tell, so all is clearly not well in the state of shaadi-nagar!” Marriage counsellors, behavorial scientists and social commentators believe it has to do with men being chronically lazy and totally secure once the ‘campaign’ is won. Since it’s a done-deal, baat khatam! It also has to do, some believe, and women please don’t scream, about women too pulling back on their looks and figure post-marriage and certainly post-kids. A friend swore he heard his once-very-attractive 26-year-old colleague coolly say “yaar, shaadi ho gayi, bachche ho gaye, not competing with Kat or Dips for my hubby’s attention, so what’s this big obsession of retaining looks and hot figure? That’s for the insecure types, compulsive attention-seekers or females who are seen as furniture at home by the hubby. I am in a comfortably secure and happy state. Period.” Truth to tell, there are no easy answers. However, in the year 2015 when both women and men – in their respective ways – have taken such giant leaps towards achieving their future, it might be wise to pause and reflect on the basics that define the human condition, factors that colour, grace and caress the most significant space of all – the space between the heart. Agreed it’s a fiercely consumerist world, success at any cost is the new aphrodisiac and battle of the sexes continues to get more over-heated each day with egos going through the roof, but point is – why continue to play the silly, stone-age hunter-hunted game? Why believe in your own market-driven mythology and chase shadows leading to doom? Why not just be yourself – warts and all – bereft of posturing and masks, celebrating simple, uncomplicated joys like togetherness, loyalty, trust, integrity, caring? Try it, and love could well make a glorious return journey, even post-marriage! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why as we enter marriage, love exits

Amid all the tension between India and Pakistan, Union Minister Sushma Swaraj yet again came to the rescue to help get Lucknow boy married to a Pakistan girl.

Naqi Ali Khan, 27, who hails from Lucknow is an engineer from Agha Mir Deodhi area near City Station. The bride, Sabahat Fatima, 24, is from Karachi.&nbsp;

Their marriage was fixed two years ago but cross-border tension caused visa hassles for the bride.

Fatima, after many efforts, finally took to social media last year to seek Swaraj&#39;s help. The minister then helped the bride in granting her a visa.&nbsp;

The two got solemnised by senior Shia cleric and vice-president of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Maulana Kalbe Sadiq.

They got married on Friday and had their reception on Saturday, reports said.&nbsp;

Media reports quoted the couple saying that they were grateful for Swaraj&#39;s help and hoped that the government will soon grant Sabahat Indian nationality too.&nbsp;

Their marriage was fixed two years ago but cross-border tension caused visa hassles for the bride

Amid all the tension between India and Pakistan, Union Minister Sushma Swaraj yet again came to the rescue to help get Lucknow boy married to a Pakistan girl. Naqi Ali Khan, 27, who hails from Lucknow is an engineer from Agha Mir Deodhi area near City Station. The bride, Sabahat Fatima, 24, is from Karachi. Their marriage was fixed two years ago but cross-border tension caused visa hassles for the bride. Fatima, after many efforts, finally took to social media last year to seek Swaraj's help. The minister then helped the bride in granting her a visa. The two got solemnised by senior Shia cleric and vice-president of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Maulana Kalbe Sadiq. They got married on Friday and had their reception on Saturday, reports said. Media reports quoted the couple saying that they were grateful for Swaraj's help and hoped that the government will soon grant Sabahat Indian nationality too.

Sushma Swaraj helps Lucknow boy and Pakistan girl get married

2017 witnessed a number of celebrity breakups/divorces but looks like the new year might bring one couple together after an ugly divorce. Yes, we are talking about a once favourite couple, Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;According to a source close to the couple quoted in a leading daily:&nbsp;&ldquo;Hrithik and Sussanne are working it out. They identified the stress areas in their relationship and are doing their best to work their way around them. Give them time &mdash; they will come together again.&rdquo;

However, a member of the Roshan family rubbished these patch up rumours and was quoted:&nbsp;&ldquo;They are done with one another &mdash; to even suggest that they can be a couple again is ridiculous. They&rsquo;ve agreed to meet and spend time together for their children&rsquo;s sake whenever they feel like it. Beyond their obligation as parents, both Hrithik and Susanne have their own separate lives.&quot;

Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan and his schooltime-sweetheart Sussanne Khan parted ways in 2013 but remained cordial.&nbsp;

They have been spotted in the past spending quality time with their sons,&nbsp;Hrehaan and Hridhaan.&nbsp;In fact, the couple recently took a vacation abroad with their sons and were spotted having a good time together.&nbsp;

Have a look at their pictures:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdvR9QpALoB/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Forever and always you stay the sunshine in my life.. Happy happiest birthday ???? ???? ????????????&zwj;♂️????smile that smile brightest and u always will spread that light...limitless ???? #sacredheart</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suzkr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sussanne Khan</a> (@suzkr) on <time datetime="2018-01-09T18:27:54+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 9, 2018 at 10:27am PST</time>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdaKoTJAl4D/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Happy happiest New year 2018.. may there be a little sparkle and shine in all your days, and with bright eyes persevere your tasks gloriously! #magic2018forall #loveurlife #gratefulheart ❄️????&hearts;️????????????&zwj;♂️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suzkr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sussanne Khan</a> (@suzkr) on <time datetime="2018-01-01T13:39:49+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 1, 2018 at 5:39am PST</time>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BascfhiF5Oa/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">To all the beautiful people in my life... thank u for making me feel so special ❤️????????&hearts;️????#birthdaygirl #happysmiles #mytribe❤️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suzkr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sussanne Khan</a> (@suzkr) on <time datetime="2017-10-26T02:28:03+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Oct 25, 2017 at 7:28pm PDT</time>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BaRIvOLll5u/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">It&rsquo;s coz of all of you, I am me.. ????????????????????#happysmiles #octobergirl #familiasagrada #thecharcoalproject #lovemyjob❤️</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suzkr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sussanne Khan</a> (@suzkr) on <time datetime="2017-10-15T11:55:56+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Oct 15, 2017 at 4:55am PDT</time>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYlLIcXFXfA/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">There is no allegation or a sad evil plot that can have the weight to triumph over a good soul. #mafamilia #powerofthetruth ????#pureheart ????????</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suzkr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Sussanne Khan</a> (@suzkr) on <time datetime="2017-09-03T13:38:53+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 3, 2017 at 6:38am PDT</time>
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&nbsp;

According to latest reports, Hrithik Roshan and his ex-wife Sussanne Khan might consider a reconciliation

2017 witnessed a number of celebrity breakups/divorces but looks like the new year might bring one couple together after an ugly divorce. Yes, we are talking about a once favourite couple, Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan. According to a source close to the couple quoted in a leading daily: “Hrithik and Sussanne are working it out. They identified the stress areas in their relationship and are doing their best to work their way around them. Give them time — they will come together again.” However, a member of the Roshan family rubbished these patch up rumours and was quoted: “They are done with one another — to even suggest that they can be a couple again is ridiculous. They’ve agreed to meet and spend time together for their children’s sake whenever they feel like it. Beyond their obligation as parents, both Hrithik and Susanne have their own separate lives." Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan and his schooltime-sweetheart Sussanne Khan parted ways in 2013 but remained cordial. They have been spotted in the past spending quality time with their sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan. In fact, the couple recently took a vacation abroad with their sons and were spotted having a good time together. Have a look at their pictures: Forever and always you stay the sunshine in my life.. Happy happiest birthday ???? ???? ????????????‍♂️????smile that smile brightest and u always will spread that light...limitless ???? #sacredheart A post shared by Sussanne Khan (@suzkr) on Jan 9, 2018 at 10:27am PST × Happy happiest New year 2018.. may there be a little sparkle and shine in all your days, and with bright eyes persevere your tasks gloriously! #magic2018forall #loveurlife #gratefulheart ❄️????♥️????????????‍♂️ A post shared by Sussanne Khan (@suzkr) on Jan 1, 2018 at 5:39am PST × To all the beautiful people in my life... thank u for making me feel so special ❤️????????♥️????#birthdaygirl #happysmiles #mytribe❤️ A post shared by Sussanne Khan (@suzkr) on Oct 25, 2017 at 7:28pm PDT × It’s coz of all of you, I am me.. ????????????????????#happysmiles #octobergirl #familiasagrada #thecharcoalproject #lovemyjob❤️ A post shared by Sussanne Khan (@suzkr) on Oct 15, 2017 at 4:55am PDT × There is no allegation or a sad evil plot that can have the weight to triumph over a good soul. #mafamilia #powerofthetruth ????#pureheart ???????? A post shared by Sussanne Khan (@suzkr) on Sep 3, 2017 at 6:38am PDT ×

Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan to get married again?

Monogamy is difficult to maintain. Sure, it&rsquo;s easy enough at times when your life is devoid of temptation. But unless you and your partner live in isolation in a cottage in the woods, there are no guarantees that an attractive &ldquo;other&rdquo; will not emerge &mdash; to lure you away and challenge the sanctity of your relationship.

&ldquo;Oh no,&rdquo; you think. &ldquo;Not me. I adore my partner. Things are still so fresh. And I have so much to lose if I were to stray.&rdquo;

Yes, of course. But research makes it clear that our best intentions are often worthless in the face of a compelling, and possibly unexpected, attraction to another person &mdash; someone intent on connecting with us. Those who report having had an extramarital relationship say it was with a close friend, co-worker or long-term acquaintance; these tend not to be random strangers.

What&rsquo;s more, an act of infidelity is often understood as the &ldquo;dealbreaker&rdquo; in relationships. And few people are abhorred more than those known to have &ldquo;cheated.&rdquo; Movies, songs and literature are replete with stories depicting the appalling retribution believed owed to those who stray.

Despite all this, studies show that most people have in fact engaged in some type of infidelity in the past or have experienced a partner&rsquo;s infidelity.

The question arises then: Is it time to ditch, or rethink, monogamy as a standard?

Optimistic expectations

Research shows that most people both expect romantic and sexual exclusivity to be in place very early in their relationships and that they denounce infidelity.

Interviews with newlyweds in the United States indicate that many people expect they and their partner will remain monogamous, despite admitting to having experienced a range of extramarital thoughts and behaviours already, such as flirting with another or feeling aroused in the presence of another.

All industrialized countries, even those purporting to have more tolerant beliefs around the importance of exclusivity, report that monogamy is the dominant pattern in their societies.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/200051/original/file-20171219-4968-1y4ni3z.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
Are jealousy and suspicion undermining your monogamous relationship? (Shutterstock)

Despite strong universal disapproval of infidelity, and despite optimistic expectations, studies show that infidelity remains, year after year, the primary cause of relationship break-ups and divorce.

Now, if you factor in the distress, distrust and discord that infidelity causes to those relationships it does not destroy, you begin to understand the weight of its consequences.
</figcaption>
</figure>

Fantasizing about a celebrity lover?

Is monogamy reasonable? Can we ever reconcile the improbability of spending a lifetime (also known as many years) with a partner without ever being drawn to another?

Can we admit that our partners might not meet all of our needs at all times? That we could experience attraction to another without a complete surrender of our rights to a loving and respectful relationship or a wish to abandon our lives to race off with the other person?

These questions are more poignant in light of research indicating that intimate relationships are becoming less rewarding over time even as our expectations of what they should deliver steadily increase.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/200064/original/file-20171219-4957-1ps3u7y.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
Singer Adam Levine is one of the most fantasized about celebrities. (Shutterstock)

In most Western countries, belief in the importance of monogamy is strong, yet relatively few individuals actually discuss with their partner what monogamy must entail.
</figcaption>
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Is online flirting with an ex you will never see again &ldquo;cheating?&rdquo; Is fantasizing about a celebrity lover being untrue to your One True Love?

Jealousy and suspicion are the tools

A series of studies by psychologist Ashley Thompson makes clear that we are notably inconsistent in the monogamy standards that we hold for ourselves versus those we hold for our partners. For example, we are far more lenient and tolerant in explaining our own versus our partner&rsquo;s behaviour.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/200053/original/file-20171219-4965-8p3m2n.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
Proponents of polyamory march at the 2017 Toronto Pride Parade. (Shutterstock)

Those who endorse alternative approaches &mdash; such as &ldquo;consensual non-monogamy&rdquo; which allows for romantic or sexual relationships beyond the primary relationship, with the partner&rsquo;s consent &mdash; argue that monogamous relationships are far less stable because people use jealousy, monitoring and suspicion as tools to hold their partners to this difficult standard.

Individuals in supposedly monogamous relationships are also less likely to practise safe sex when they cheat (putting their primary partner&rsquo;s health at risk) than are those in consensually non-monogamous relationships. And questions arise about whether you are really practising &ldquo;monogamy&rdquo; if you&rsquo;re exclusive but in relationship after relationship after relationship &mdash; that is, for those who change primary partners after just a few years.

Rewriting the fairytale
</figcaption>
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To discuss dealbreakers in one&rsquo;s relationship, it is essential for a couple to define what constitutes a betrayal, violation of trust or act of dishonesty.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/200063/original/file-20171219-4965-z1uhjg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
Negotiating guidelines with your partner can help you both be on the same page, about what types and expressions of connection with others are acceptable. (Shutterstock)

If a couple can plan ahead of time for the possibility than one or both partners might have an intimate moment with another person at some point, this can reinforce the flexibility, tolerance and forgiveness required to adjust if that happens.
</figcaption>
</figure>

It all depends on the circumstances, of course, but accepting that another person might offer something that we or our partners need can leave couples better-positioned to move forward and adjust or negotiate if necessary, without an entire and irreversible relationship disintegration.

This is key: If we can admit to ourselves that a fleeting attraction, or more meaningful connection, with another partner might not irreparably harm our primary relationship &mdash; and indeed might supplement it &mdash; then our relationships might survive longer and better.

A new viewpoint requires a willingness to supplant the fairytale &mdash; a belief (often cherished) that one person can forever meet all your emotional, romantic and sexual needs.

Lunch is ok, touch is out

This is unlikely to be easy for most of us. The idea of a partner being distracted by another can induce panic in the most stalwart and confident. But insisting upon a fairly unreasonable standard (lifelong exclusivity or else!) can in fact harbour the possibility of secrecy and betrayal.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/200061/original/file-20171219-4965-v7f1ph.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>Negotiate with your partner and make guidelines such as &lsquo;Lunch is ok, touching is not.&rsquo; (Shutterstock)</figcaption>
</figure>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The emphasis in relationships needs always to be on openness, caring and mutual consent.

This is not to say that you or your partner will ultimately connect intimately with another person in any way despite adopting a new viewpoint about exclusivity. It also does not mean you have to agree that &ldquo;anything goes,&rdquo; that your relationship becomes an open relationship in the broadest sense of that term, or that anyone at all can enter your private sphere.

It is wise to negotiate some guidelines with your partner &mdash; about who or what type of person might be invited to look in on that sphere, for a moment or longer, and what might be acceptable ways to connect with another person (e.g. lunch is okay, touch is out), should the need or want arise.

If you also discuss how best to talk about it, this approach can go far in keeping your relationship truthful, transparent and trusting &mdash; making the need for a dealbreaker that much less relevant altogether.

&nbsp;

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Can we ever reconcile the improbability of spending a lifetime (also known as many years) with a partner without ever being drawn to another?

Monogamy is difficult to maintain. Sure, it’s easy enough at times when your life is devoid of temptation. But unless you and your partner live in isolation in a cottage in the woods, there are no guarantees that an attractive “other” will not emerge — to lure you away and challenge the sanctity of your relationship. “Oh no,” you think. “Not me. I adore my partner. Things are still so fresh. And I have so much to lose if I were to stray.” Yes, of course. But research makes it clear that our best intentions are often worthless in the face of a compelling, and possibly unexpected, attraction to another person — someone intent on connecting with us. Those who report having had an extramarital relationship say it was with a close friend, co-worker or long-term acquaintance; these tend not to be random strangers. What’s more, an act of infidelity is often understood as the “dealbreaker” in relationships. And few people are abhorred more than those known to have “cheated.” Movies, songs and literature are replete with stories depicting the appalling retribution believed owed to those who stray. Despite all this, studies show that most people have in fact engaged in some type of infidelity in the past or have experienced a partner’s infidelity. The question arises then: Is it time to ditch, or rethink, monogamy as a standard? Optimistic expectations Research shows that most people both expect romantic and sexual exclusivity to be in place very early in their relationships and that they denounce infidelity. Interviews with newlyweds in the United States indicate that many people expect they and their partner will remain monogamous, despite admitting to having experienced a range of extramarital thoughts and behaviours already, such as flirting with another or feeling aroused in the presence of another. All industrialized countries, even those purporting to have more tolerant beliefs around the importance of exclusivity, report that monogamy is the dominant pattern in their societies. Are jealousy and suspicion undermining your monogamous relationship? (Shutterstock) Despite strong universal disapproval of infidelity, and despite optimistic expectations, studies show that infidelity remains, year after year, the primary cause of relationship break-ups and divorce. Now, if you factor in the distress, distrust and discord that infidelity causes to those relationships it does not destroy, you begin to understand the weight of its consequences. Fantasizing about a celebrity lover? Is monogamy reasonable? Can we ever reconcile the improbability of spending a lifetime (also known as many years) with a partner without ever being drawn to another? Can we admit that our partners might not meet all of our needs at all times? That we could experience attraction to another without a complete surrender of our rights to a loving and respectful relationship or a wish to abandon our lives to race off with the other person? These questions are more poignant in light of research indicating that intimate relationships are becoming less rewarding over time even as our expectations of what they should deliver steadily increase. Singer Adam Levine is one of the most fantasized about celebrities. (Shutterstock) In most Western countries, belief in the importance of monogamy is strong, yet relatively few individuals actually discuss with their partner what monogamy must entail. Is online flirting with an ex you will never see again “cheating?” Is fantasizing about a celebrity lover being untrue to your One True Love? Jealousy and suspicion are the tools A series of studies by psychologist Ashley Thompson makes clear that we are notably inconsistent in the monogamy standards that we hold for ourselves versus those we hold for our partners. For example, we are far more lenient and tolerant in explaining our own versus our partner’s behaviour. Proponents of polyamory march at the 2017 Toronto Pride Parade. (Shutterstock) Those who endorse alternative approaches — such as “consensual non-monogamy” which allows for romantic or sexual relationships beyond the primary relationship, with the partner’s consent — argue that monogamous relationships are far less stable because people use jealousy, monitoring and suspicion as tools to hold their partners to this difficult standard. Individuals in supposedly monogamous relationships are also less likely to practise safe sex when they cheat (putting their primary partner’s health at risk) than are those in consensually non-monogamous relationships. And questions arise about whether you are really practising “monogamy” if you’re exclusive but in relationship after relationship after relationship — that is, for those who change primary partners after just a few years. Rewriting the fairytale To discuss dealbreakers in one’s relationship, it is essential for a couple to define what constitutes a betrayal, violation of trust or act of dishonesty. Negotiating guidelines with your partner can help you both be on the same page, about what types and expressions of connection with others are acceptable. (Shutterstock) If a couple can plan ahead of time for the possibility than one or both partners might have an intimate moment with another person at some point, this can reinforce the flexibility, tolerance and forgiveness required to adjust if that happens. It all depends on the circumstances, of course, but accepting that another person might offer something that we or our partners need can leave couples better-positioned to move forward and adjust or negotiate if necessary, without an entire and irreversible relationship disintegration. This is key: If we can admit to ourselves that a fleeting attraction, or more meaningful connection, with another partner might not irreparably harm our primary relationship — and indeed might supplement it — then our relationships might survive longer and better. A new viewpoint requires a willingness to supplant the fairytale — a belief (often cherished) that one person can forever meet all your emotional, romantic and sexual needs. Lunch is ok, touch is out This is unlikely to be easy for most of us. The idea of a partner being distracted by another can induce panic in the most stalwart and confident. But insisting upon a fairly unreasonable standard (lifelong exclusivity or else!) can in fact harbour the possibility of secrecy and betrayal. Negotiate with your partner and make guidelines such as ‘Lunch is ok, touching is not.’ (Shutterstock) The emphasis in relationships needs always to be on openness, caring and mutual consent. This is not to say that you or your partner will ultimately connect intimately with another person in any way despite adopting a new viewpoint about exclusivity. It also does not mean you have to agree that “anything goes,” that your relationship becomes an open relationship in the broadest sense of that term, or that anyone at all can enter your private sphere. It is wise to negotiate some guidelines with your partner — about who or what type of person might be invited to look in on that sphere, for a moment or longer, and what might be acceptable ways to connect with another person (e.g. lunch is okay, touch is out), should the need or want arise. If you also discuss how best to talk about it, this approach can go far in keeping your relationship truthful, transparent and trusting — making the need for a dealbreaker that much less relevant altogether. This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why you might want to rethink monogamy in 2018

Everyone has their own style of celebrating New Year&#39;s Eve but the Indonesian style takes away the cake for being the most innovative.&nbsp;

On Sunday night, hundreds of couples gathered in Jakarta&#39;s city centre in what was a mass wedding ceremony.&nbsp;

Almost 450 couples came to be a part of this ceremony which took place in a large tent just hours before midnight.&nbsp;

The couples gathered to first offer their prayers before signing marriage certificates which were overlooked by government officials.&nbsp;

As reported by Reuters, Hartiningish, a 38-year-old East Javanese bride said,&nbsp;&quot;We wanted an unforgettable experience and we&#39;re so happy that we decided to participate today.&quot;

Her husband, Ricky Rangga, 30, said the couple was grateful to the city administration for making the wedding possible.

The tent was smartly decked up to look like a wedding function with a live band performing a set of traditional and pop music in the background.

Many couples wore matching colours and colourful traditional Indonesian outfits, with some brides donned elaborate headdresses and grooms carried traditional daggers called keris.

Speaking on the occasion, Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan congratulated those who participated and said the &quot;city would now host the event every New Year&rsquo;s Eve&quot;. The city government raised donation funds to pay for token gold dowries for the couples to exchange.

It is locally said that grooms in Indonesia traditionally have to present gold jewellery or money to brides on the wedding day.

&nbsp;

Mass wedding took place in the capital city Jakarta of Indonesia

Everyone has their own style of celebrating New Year's Eve but the Indonesian style takes away the cake for being the most innovative. On Sunday night, hundreds of couples gathered in Jakarta's city centre in what was a mass wedding ceremony. Almost 450 couples came to be a part of this ceremony which took place in a large tent just hours before midnight. The couples gathered to first offer their prayers before signing marriage certificates which were overlooked by government officials. As reported by Reuters, Hartiningish, a 38-year-old East Javanese bride said, "We wanted an unforgettable experience and we're so happy that we decided to participate today." Her husband, Ricky Rangga, 30, said the couple was grateful to the city administration for making the wedding possible. The tent was smartly decked up to look like a wedding function with a live band performing a set of traditional and pop music in the background. Many couples wore matching colours and colourful traditional Indonesian outfits, with some brides donned elaborate headdresses and grooms carried traditional daggers called keris. Speaking on the occasion, Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan congratulated those who participated and said the "city would now host the event every New Year’s Eve". The city government raised donation funds to pay for token gold dowries for the couples to exchange. It is locally said that grooms in Indonesia traditionally have to present gold jewellery or money to brides on the wedding day.

Hundreds in Indonesia celebrate New Year by getting married

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli who recently got married to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma is ready for the upcoming South African tour.&nbsp;

After hosting a lavish <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/virat-kohli-and-anushka-sharma-look-regal-at-their-mumbai-reception-27793" target="_blank">wedding reception part</a>y for the who&#39;s who of the Indian celebrity circle in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/first-pictures-from-virushkas-reception-620" target="_blank">Delhi</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-virat-kohli-and-anushka-sharmas-mumbai-reception-624" target="_blank">Mumbai</a>, Virat on Wednesday spoke about his preparations for the South African series which includes three Tests, six One-Day&nbsp;Internationals (ODI) and three Twenty20 Internationals.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media, Virat said, &quot;You need to play cricket for a long period of time to win abroad. The hunger this time is the same. We want to do what we couldn&rsquo;t the last time around,&rdquo; said Kohli, hours before the team&rsquo;s flight to South Africa.

&ldquo;Cricket is played with bat and ball. Conditions don&rsquo;t matter. I have no doubt in the ability of the team. We are on the right track&quot;, he added.&nbsp;

When asked how difficult it would be for him to return to cricket post-marriage, Virat replied, &quot;Not difficult at all, I was away for something (marriage) which is much more important. That is a period that will always remain special for both of us.&quot;

Before dropping out of limited-overs series against Sri Lanka to get married to longtime-girlfriend Anushka Sharma on December 11 in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-virushka-from-the-wedding-ceremony-26503" target="_blank">private ceremony</a> in Tuscany, Italy, Virat was seen&nbsp;playing in his top form. He scored&nbsp;610 runs in the three-Test series against Sri Lanka before leaving for wedding break.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-watch-timeline-of-virat-and-anushkas-love-story-26531" target="_blank">Also Watch: Timeline of Virat and Anushka&#39;s love story</a>

He added,&nbsp;&quot;Switching back to cricket is not difficult at all because it is in my blood like it is for every other team member and the team management as well, so getting back to professional front is not difficult at all.&quot;

Virat also spoke about his focus on cricket even though he was busy with wedding celebrations. He said,&nbsp;&quot;I haven&#39;t done anything in the past three weeks. I have been training to get back to play in South Africa. Somewhere in your head you are always thinking about you have something important coming up, so subconsciously you are looking forward to it (South Africa tour). So, mentally I am very well prepared.&quot;

While Virat was on a break, Rohit Sharma led the team and led India to win both&nbsp;ODIs and T20s against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Virat with his bride Anushka is now headed to South Africa&nbsp;for a tough tour where India plays three Tests starting January 5.

&nbsp;

The Indian cricket captain had opted out of the limited-overs series against Sri Lanka to get married to longtime-girlfriend Anushka Sharma

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli who recently got married to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma is ready for the upcoming South African tour. After hosting a lavish wedding reception party for the who's who of the Indian celebrity circle in Delhi and Mumbai, Virat on Wednesday spoke about his preparations for the South African series which includes three Tests, six One-Day Internationals (ODI) and three Twenty20 Internationals. Speaking to the media, Virat said, "You need to play cricket for a long period of time to win abroad. The hunger this time is the same. We want to do what we couldn’t the last time around,” said Kohli, hours before the team’s flight to South Africa. “Cricket is played with bat and ball. Conditions don’t matter. I have no doubt in the ability of the team. We are on the right track", he added. When asked how difficult it would be for him to return to cricket post-marriage, Virat replied, "Not difficult at all, I was away for something (marriage) which is much more important. That is a period that will always remain special for both of us." Before dropping out of limited-overs series against Sri Lanka to get married to longtime-girlfriend Anushka Sharma on December 11 in a private ceremony in Tuscany, Italy, Virat was seen playing in his top form. He scored 610 runs in the three-Test series against Sri Lanka before leaving for wedding break. Also Watch: Timeline of Virat and Anushka's love story He added, "Switching back to cricket is not difficult at all because it is in my blood like it is for every other team member and the team management as well, so getting back to professional front is not difficult at all." Virat also spoke about his focus on cricket even though he was busy with wedding celebrations. He said, "I haven't done anything in the past three weeks. I have been training to get back to play in South Africa. Somewhere in your head you are always thinking about you have something important coming up, so subconsciously you are looking forward to it (South Africa tour). So, mentally I am very well prepared." While Virat was on a break, Rohit Sharma led the team and led India to win both ODIs and T20s against Sri Lanka. Virat with his bride Anushka is now headed to South Africa for a tough tour where India plays three Tests starting January 5.

Virat Kohli: Getting married was much more important (than cricket)

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