Genelia D’Souza Reveals She Wouldn’t Have Married Riteish Deshmukh Without a Proposal: “I Needed a Story for My Kids”
Bollywood couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza, who tied the knot on February 3, 2012, have long been considered one of the industry’s most loved pairs. From their on-screen chemistry to their off-screen bond, the duo continues to win hearts — especially as they recently received praise for their latest project Raja Shivaji, which they described as a decade-long labour of love.
However, an old interview clip of the couple has resurfaced online, once again highlighting a quirky and much-talked-about moment from their love story — the lack of a traditional proposal.
“There was no proposal… but I needed one”
Speaking in a conversation with Mashable India, Riteish revealed that their wedding was already almost fixed when Genelia insisted on having a proper proposal before the ceremony.
“I told Genelia ki shaadi toh teh ho gayi hai and all, and Genelia ne kaha jab tak aap propose nahi karoge tab tak main mandap pe nahi aa rahi,” Riteish recalled.
Genelia, laughing at the memory, admitted that their relationship had progressed without any formal “asking out” or proposal moment.
“We have no idea how we were in a relationship. There was no proposal, there was no asking out. But I wanted stories for my children. I need a proposal,” she said.
A Last-Minute Romantic Surprise
Riteish then shared how, just days before the wedding, he arranged a surprise proposal involving a yacht ride and fireworks near Marine Drive.
He explained that Genelia was taken from one surprise to another, eventually reaching a terrace setup where everything was arranged for the moment.
“As soon as we reached, fireworks started. I was on my knees and asked Genelia, will you marry me?” he said.
Genelia, clearly amused even in hindsight, responded: “I was like oh my God… now everyone will think Riteish is amazing. What about me?”
A Bond That Keeps Winning Hearts
Since their wedding in 2012, the couple has continued to share glimpses of their strong relationship and family life with sons Riaan and Rahyl. Their chemistry — both personal and professional — often draws admiration from fans.
Genelia’s recent birthday post for Riteish also went viral, where she described him as “love, grace, and a heart of gold,” further reinforcing their reputation as one of Bollywood’s most enduring couples.
As old interviews resurface, their proposal story once again reminds fans that even unconventional love stories can have the most memorable endings.
