Rahul Dravid’s status as the most sought-after bachelor in the Indian 11 is about to change. And one would think that would have him smiling from ear to ear. But Dravid looks edgy and irritated. Pre-marriage nerves? Not exactly. The 69-Test veteran is facing something worse than a Brett Lee delivery — the inquisitive, prying eyes of his fans led by a nosey media. And why not, he’s our favourite blue-eyed boy. But Dravid would rather talk about his cricketing exploits than his maiden catch.‘‘Why are you guys after me? Leave me alone. don’t invade my privacy,’’ is all he has to say. A solemn promise by the photographers that they’ll leave after taking a shot, gives way to a long-faced, I-give-up look. ‘‘Just one picture, that’s it,’’ he warns.He’s also ensured that none of his friends divulge any details about his new ‘‘partnership’’ with Nagpur-based Vijeta Pendharkar, who reached here on Wednesday. A call to former India paceman and Dravid’s Ranji mate Venkatesh Prasad only confirms his invitation to the wedding, taking place in the most secluded of locations, in Yelahanka.In fact, the slightest hint of any media or media-related persons around ‘Srishti’, the Dravids’ Indiranagar residence, gets the guests to retreat back into the house. And strangely, there are no signs of any celebration at ‘Srishti’ — no huge crowds, no gaudy decorations, nothing that suggests a marriage is on the cards. Rather it looks like the house is done up for Diwali or Christmas, with a few paper-star lanterns and decorated lights edging the balcony.The bride-to-be, Vijeta, is currently ensconced in an ‘‘undisclosed location’’. Incidentally, the two will tie the knot on ‘‘Akshaya Tadige’’, an auspicious day in the Hindu calender. Following the wedding is a reception — also quiet and simple — at Taj West End on May 6.
