In late 2023, actor Randeep Hooda tied the knot with actress and long-time partner Lin Laishram in a traditional Meitei wedding in Manipur. While their intimate ceremony won hearts across social media, the actor has now opened up about the lesser-known, behind-the-scenes moments — from cultural challenges to unexpected drama. Randeep, who met Lin years ago through Naseeruddin Shah’s theatre group Motley, confessed that marrying someone from a vastly different background was eye-opening. “There were stereotypes around me not marrying a Jaat girl,” he told Mid-day with a chuckle. But their union was about more than love, it became a testament to cross-cultural respect and learning, especially as the wedding took place amidst political unrest in Manipur.“I had a cultural tutor”Randeep admitted he was entirely unfamiliar with Meitei rituals. “Lin tried to prepare me by showing me videos of the rituals, but I was busy editing Swatantrya Veer Savarkar at the time,” he recalled.To ensure everything went smoothly, a close-knit group accompanied him to Manipur, including Brigadier Sanghwan from the Assam Rifles, who played a crucial role in planning the wedding amid the civil conflict. Randeep described the actual ceremony as intense and deeply structured — a stark contrast to his own Haryanvi roots.“There was a moment where I had to wear a headpiece and sit absolutely straight for two hours,” he said. “Everyone came to look at me like I was god.” What added to the surrealism was the provision of a small bowl — in case nature called. “You just open the umbrella and go. You can’t move because you’re god,” he joked.Lin got scolded for smilingLin Laishram, too, was navigating the weight of her culture’s traditions. Randeep revealed that she wasn’t spared from scrutiny. “She got scolded for smiling during the ceremony,” he laughed. “They’d send messengers telling her to stop smiling. Everything was so meticulously choreographed.”Reflecting on the cultural contrast, the Sarbjit actor noted, “Haryana is rough and raw, while Manipur is structured and refined. But both states produce champions — be it boxers or brides.”
AK-47s and pheras: A wedding like no otherWhile the rituals were rooted in heritage, the wedding also saw a burst of adrenaline typically reserved for a film climax. Just as the pheras concluded, celebratory gunfire broke out. “Hundreds of AK-47s went off in the air,” Randeep said, describing the surreal blend of tradition, celebration, and regional unrest.Though the couple has mostly kept their relationship under wraps, occasional glimpses on social media — during festivals and special occasions — hinted at their bond. Speaking to ANI, Lin shared, “We met at Motley. He was my senior. What started as friendship turned into a beautiful journey.”
