I would love to be with Lara and the baby: Mahesh Bhupathi

The congratulatory messages for tennis ace Mahesh Bhupathi haven’t stopped coming ever since the news of wife, actor Lara Dutta being pregnant came to light. Excerpts from an interview with DNA:

You will be a father now. What was the reaction when Lara broke the news to you?
It feels great. We were obviously pleasantly surprised that it happened as quick as it did. We feel lucky to be blessed with the new addition to our family.

Has fatherhood changed you as a person?
Of course, it’s natural to feel more responsible when a child is coming into the family. However, I will have a better idea once the baby comes in.

Are you planning to take a break from games when the baby is due to be with Lara?
I would love to be with Lara and the baby. But the next year looks busy, so depending on the schedule we shall decide.

How would you describe your relationship with your wife?
Friendship is the most important element in the relationship. If there is no friendship, there is no relationship. We continue to build on our relation and the best part about our relation is that we understand each other really well (laughs).

I admire everything in Lara. She is a responsible woman and is in the challenging entertainment industry. She continues to succeed in whatever she does and that it very complementing.

Have you thought of baby names yet?
Yes, as parents we have thought of few names for our baby, but haven’t zeroed down to any yet. If you have any suggestions, I am open to them.

When are you having the baby shower party for Lara?
Would I be having the baby shower party (laughs)? But yes, I will be very much present with Lara for the party. But we are yet to finalise the date…