By: Tushar Joshi

Rahul Mahajan is building his body and grooming himself to participate in the season 2 of NDTV Imagine's Swayamvar. After his stint on Bigg Boss, Rahul is now gearing up to face the cameras and choose a prospective bride from 16 girls. Here's Rahul talking about his quest to find a life partner and his mom's relief on him settling down...

How did the show come to you?
I am a good friend with Sameer Nair and he came up to me and suggested that I do the show. I liked the idea and once I read the format and script, I decided to do it. I think it's an interesting platform for me to not only find a life partner but also to connect to the audience. They all gave me lots of love and support during Bigg Boss.

Is it true you are bulking up for the show?
Yes, I am presently training with Abbas who is Shahid Kapoor's trainer. He's basically getting me into healthy eating and following a basic workout regimen. I don't plan to build a body like Salman, but be physically fit and active. I have also joined dance classes so I have a basic idea of what it's like to dance.

Why the urge to settle down now?
It's a natural transition for me. At my age, you do get lonely and crave for someone's company. So I thought it would be a nice way to meet girls from all over the world and then see whom I get along well with the most. I also believe in destiny and let it take the course of my life.

What are the qualities you are looking for?
I need someone who likes me the way I am. That's the most important thing for me. She should accept me for who I am. Also she should have a kind heart and inner beauty. Everyone has faults, but it's all about growing old and making it work.

Will you backtrack from the commitment like Rakhi did?
I don't know Rakhi personally so I don't want to comment on her situation. As far as I know, I am 100 per cent committed to the show and plan to marry whosoever connects with me the best.

Won't the show take time from campaigning for your sister?
We haven't set a date for the show yet. I fully support Poonam and plan to be with her till the very last day of campaigning. There's no way that I won't have time for her.

How has your family reacted to you participating on the show?
My mom is quite relieved because she wants the best for me. Like every mom, she wants to see me happy and settled. I have got blessings from her and everyone who wishes me well.

You were close to Payal Rohatgi during Bigg Boss. What did she say about you getting married?
All I can say is that whoever wished me well has expressed happiness over my decision. I can't talk about the rest. Both Sambhavna and Monica (Bedi) have said I have made the right decision. They both are my well-wishers.