There is a new guy in Amrita Rao's life. His name is Vishal Malhotra, and incidentally, he acted with her in her first film, Ken Ghosh's Ishq Vishk, where he played the role of Shahid Kapoor's friend. They became friends on the sets. It is learnt that they have been dating for some time now. They have been going to events but make solo entries and exits. They can't go public with their relationship as her family doesn't approve. While Amrita is already an established actress, Vishal has yet to prove his mettle as an actor in films.

He is currently acting in Ravi Chopra's Banda Yeh Bindass Hai, Na Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai and Vashu Bhagnani's next. Although he has done many films, he hasn't quite made a name of himself and her family wants her to see someone who is at least as successful as her." When asked about his bonding with Amrita, Vishal says, "I won't use the usual cliche that Amrita and I are just good friends. I also admit that we are extremely close and she's one of the most special people in my life. I can't define my relationship with Amrita. We do hold a special place for each other. I am not ashamed about my relationship with her but to talk beyond that wouldn't be fair to her. We are both in different phases and places in life. I am still trying to get a foothold in films."

Vishal adds, "Amrita and I started out together with Ishq Vishk and have kept in touch. We spend as much time together as we can. When I first met Amrita, we instantly connected. She's a lovely, dignified girl. I like the way she handles everything in life." Recently Vishal was seen hosting TV reality show Perfect Bride with Rao (the mentor). "I was doing the show and came again for one episode. In fact, Amrita was to do just one episode for PB but the show is such great fun that I forced her to do more."

Vishal also co-hosted Entertainment Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega with Mona Singh, and now he wants to concentrate on films. "I don't have a family backing to get me lead roles, and so I am looking at doing strong character roles with good filmmakers." When asked about Vishal, Amrita says, "Vishal is a dear friend of mine since Ishq Vishk days. I have already had a laughter attack thinking of being linked with him. I can't wait to give him one with this piece of news. Vishal is just my buddy."