“He says surprising me with chocolate on set was planned; I swear it was fate — either way, that’s the moment I knew he was my person.”
1. How did both of you meet, and how did your journey together begin?
We first crossed paths on the set of our debut show together. Initially, it was all about rehearsing scenes, memorizing lines, and sticking to the script. But slowly, those moments grew into something more — coffee breaks became our little escapes, inside jokes started forming between takes, and before we knew it, there was this lingering question in the air: “Are we a thing?” Spoiler alert: we were! What began as colleagues collaborating soon turned into a connection we couldn’t ignore.
2. What do you love most about each other — personally and professionally?
She: He’s my calm in the chaos. No matter how hectic life gets, he remains grounded, goofy in the best way, and always knows when I need snacks or a motivational pep talk. He reminds me to breathe, laugh, and not take everything so seriously.
He: She’s this unstoppable mix of talent and heart. Off-camera, she’s pure sunshine — warm, kind, and full of life. But the moment she steps in front of the camera, she transforms into this fierce, magnetic force. I love watching her work because she inspires me to push myself, both as a professional and as a person.
3. How do you manage your relationship and careers in the public eye?
Honestly, by not letting the outside noise affect us. We’ve learned to celebrate the wins, laugh off the rumors or negativity, and, most importantly, keep the real stuff — the personal, meaningful parts of our relationship — just between us. We’ve also set clear boundaries for what we share publicly. Oh, and memes! Memes are our secret weapon for survival. They keep things light when the pressure feels heavy.
4. One moment or memory together that always makes you smile?
There was this one particularly long and exhausting shoot day. I was stressed, tired, and honestly just over it — and then, out of nowhere, he shows up with my favorite chocolate. That small, thoughtful gesture turned my entire mood around. It reminded me why he’s so special.
He claims it was part of his grand plan; I like to believe it was just fate working its magic. Either way, it’s a memory we both cherish and laugh about even now.
5. How do you support each other during tough days in the industry?
Support for us comes in many forms — sometimes it’s through deep, meaningful conversations where we vent and process things together. Other times, it’s as simple as showing up with good food or just quietly sitting next to each other, offering silent companionship. We’ve realized that you don’t always need big gestures; sometimes, just being there, listening, and validating the other person’s feelings makes all the difference. And yes, we fully commit to each other’s rants like they deserve an Oscar.
6. One piece of advice for couples in demanding professions?
Make sure you’re each other’s safe space, not an added source of stress or pressure. Work and life are already tough enough; your relationship should be where you recharge and feel supported. Always remember: it’s not about who’s shining more or who’s getting the most attention — it’s teamwork, not a competition. Lift each other up, share the load, and stay connected through the ups and downs.
7. If your love story were a movie, what would it be called?
“Take One, Forever” — because our love story truly began on set. What started as a scripted partnership turned into something real, something lasting. It’s like life gave us the perfect cue, and from that moment, the reel became real, and we’ve been writing our own script ever since.
Bio:
Leenesh Mattoo, born in Kashmir, is an actor who originally pursued engineering before discovering his passion for acting. He made his television debut with Suhani Si Ek Ladki, but it was his breakout role as Rudra in Ishqbaaaz that truly transformed his career and brought him into the spotlight. Over the years, Leenesh has showcased his versatility in popular shows like Brahmarakshas 2, Tere Bina Jiya Jaye Na, and Bade Achhe Lagte Hain 2. Off-screen, he’s a fitness enthusiast, an avid traveler, and someone who thrives on positive energy. Interestingly, he met his girlfriend, Shivani Jha, on set — a real-life love story that continues to add joy to his journey.
Shivani Jha, born and raised in Mumbai, has always been deeply passionate about the arts. She began her journey in the entertainment industry as a model and dancer, appearing in campaigns for brands like Himalaya Kajal and Desi Hangover shoes. Her breakthrough moment came in 2020 when she participated in the reality show Mujhse Shaadi Karoge, which opened the doors to acting opportunities. Shivani soon landed the role of Sakshi Sharma in Brahmarakshas 2 and has since appeared in popular shows like Bhagya Lakshmi and Naagin 6. Outside of her acting career, Shivani is a dedicated fitness enthusiast, an animal lover, and a passionate traveler. A charming twist in her personal life: she met her boyfriend, actor Leenesh Mattoo, on the set of Brahmarakshas 2, and the two have been inseparable ever since.
Interviewed by: Gurbani Kaur
Edited by: Shantanu Singh
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