On Sunday evening, at a private ceremony attended only by close family members, director Dharmesh Darshan tied the knot in an Arya Samaj temple with the daughter of a family friend.

So clandestine was the whole event that even close friends of the filmmaker, like designer Manish Malhotra and Akshay Kumar, were not present.

"Dharmesh has always been a recluse," says a friend. "He's hardly seen in public, never attends public functions and doesn't party. It's quite in character if he chose to marry so quietly."

Suneel Darshan, the Bewafaa director's brother, says, "We didn't invite anyone. But our father was very keen to invite Akshay Kumar, whom he considers his third son."

On Sunday afternoon, Akshay, who's away shooting in Dubai says, "I'd have loved to be there for Dharmesh's wedding. But I got to know about it only yesterday evening. There's no time to fly down. But I've sent him my best wishes."

Says Suneel, "Our parents, with Dharmesh's approval, arranged the match. The girl's name is Bindiya. In accordance with Dharmesh's wishes, we've invited no one. In fact, the wedding is such a small affair that I don't need to prepare for it at all. I'm working in my office right now and will go for the wedding in the evening."

Our photographer was at the venue, but Dharmesh requested him not to take pictures. "This is a very private moment for me. I will have a reception next week and you can take pictures there. But today, please respect my privacy."