Manoj Koli, father of actor-YouTuber Prajakta Koli, opened up about his journey from being a protective parent to building a strong friendship with her fiancé, Vrishank Khanal.
Prajakta Koli’s father, Manoj Koli, reflects on his evolving bond with her fiancé, Vrishank Khanal.
Manoj Koli, father of actor-YouTuber Prajakta Koli, recently shared his journey from being a protective father to developing a close friendship with her fiancé, Vrishank Khanal. Speaking on the YouTube channel Yuvaa, Prajakta revealed that it wasn’t easy for her father to accept the relationship initially, especially since she is his only daughter. She recalled how he was a “typical father” when he first found out about her dating Vrishank over a decade ago when she was just 18.
Manoj reflected on that time, admitting he was concerned about Prajakta’s future. He recalled how she had cried at home when Vrishank initially refused to be in a relationship with her. At the time, he believed she was getting distracted from her career. “You were hardly 17-18, excited and passionate about your career. I thought it was a hurdle. I thought at this age, leaving your career for this could be a wrong decision. I hadn’t even met him then. Also, you didn’t tell me about it,” he shared. His first meeting with Vrishank happened during a Gauri Pooja at their home, where he found him to be well-mannered, good-looking, and pursuing a law degree. He realized there was nothing to object to but also knew that once children are sure about their relationships, it’s difficult for parents to convince them otherwise.
Over the years, his relationship with Vrishank evolved, and during the COVID-19 lockdown, the two developed a genuine friendship. Manoj shared how Vrishank taught him how to make wine, which became an unexpected bonding experience. “Men can bond over two things—drinks or ideas. We bonded over both,” he joked. He went on to praise Vrishank’s knowledge and expertise in his field, calling him a gentleman. “Be friends first since later he will become your son-in-law. Be friends first so that he doesn’t ask for dowry,” he added humorously.
Today, Manoj and his wife share a warm relationship with Vrishank that extends beyond Prajakta. She shared that her parents often go on trips with him and invite him over for meals, highlighting the strong connection they have built over the years. Prajakta and Vrishank, who had been dating for several years, officially announced their engagement in 2023. What began as a father’s hesitation has now turned into admiration, respect, and a bond that feels just as much like friendship as it does family.
