Mumbai: "Indian Idol" winner Abhijeet Sawant, who quietly tied the knot with long-time friend Shilpa Edvankar last December, gives credit to Sony TV's reality show for the marriage.

"I knew her for quite some time. We used to stay at Mahim. She was also staying in the same society and we were good friends. When I proposed the first time, she rejected me," Abhijeet told IANS.

However, when he signed up for "Indian Idol", Shilpa started showing special interest in him.

"She would always be there to boost my morale and sit for long hours during the rehearsals and practice. It was during that time we got closer. After winning 'Indian Idol', I proposed to her again. She gracefully agreed and we married within a year."

The 27-year-old became a rage amongst youngsters after winning the first Indian Idol title in 2005. Abhijeet's fan following has not changed after his marriage.

"Truly speaking, I was a little worried before marriage, but after more than five months I am satisfied that everything is all right. I still get calls from quite a number of people and even girls. They still love me."

Talking about changes in life after marriage, he said: "It hasn't changed so much. The only difference is that now she is staying with my parents and me. Otherwise, we are still more like friends than husband and wife. Our parents are also happy."

Abhijeet is set to debut as an actor in "Lottery", which is a musical thriller. He is playing an accountant in the film.

Talking about his acting, he said: "A singing career is not time-bound but acting is; therefore I accepted the offer. I thought I should make use of the opportunity."