Kanishka Soni, who was last seen in the TV show Devi Adi Parashakti in 2021, has been making headlines even since she announced on social media that she was getting married to herself. The 35-year-old actress, who moved to the US four months ago, spoke to us about her decision to marry herself, being accused of doing it for publicity and future plans. Excerpts:
How did the idea of sologamy come to you? Were you inspired by Kshama Bindu, from Vadodara, who
It’s not a decision that I took overnight. I don’t even know that a girl from Vadodara has married herself. My past abusive relationships have made me take this step. Also my experiences in showbiz acted as a catalyst. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that I hate men and don’t trust them anymore. I love myself and believe self-love is the truest form of love, with no expectations. Rather than looking for love and getting trapped in a relationship that’s toxic, I felt this was a good way where I can be loved without any conditions, something no one else in the world can do.
What kind of a wedding ceremony did you have?
I didn’t have a wedding with any rituals. I started wearing a mangalsutra and sindoor recently and announced my marital status on social media on August 6.
What if you meet somebody in the future and change your mind about love and marriage?
I know what I am doing, there is no way I will change my mind. I have had enough in my life, so there is no question of regret. People have been asking me and also commenting on social media about my physical needs, which most feel can only be fulfilled by a man. I would like to tell them that I am a yoga practitioner and know how to control my desires. I love children, so I might want to adopt one, but only when I feel I am settled in life.
How did your family and friends react to your decision?
My family and friends have been extremely supportive and have welcomed my decision. When I shared this with my mom, she was very supportive, too. My loved ones know that I cannot go wrong and I have never compromised in my life.
Trolls have been calling this a publicity stunt, what do you have to say about that?
Challenging societal norms and creating a buzz to garner attention is not my aim. I wanted to know how it feels to be married. As far as trolls are concerned, I don’t pay heed to what others say, I simply ignore them. They know nothing about my struggles or the problems that I have gone through. Of course, I had no idea that this step would make me an internet sensation overnight!
Have you quit television? What are you currently doing in the US?
I moved to the US four months ago. I have no plans to return to India and look for work. I am already in talks for a few web series and movies in the US. I have been giving auditions here and if things go as per plan, I will sign a prestigious project that will showcase my talent as a singer and actress.
