Kapil Sharma
Kapil SharmaTwitter/Kapil Sharma

Kapil Sharma, one of Indian television's most popular stand-up comedians, is said to be dating Preeti Simoes and is likely to marry her next year.

Preeti is the creative director of Kapil's show "Comedy Nights With Kapil", The Times of India reported.

A close friend of Kapil was the one to spill the beans on the couple's relationship. Kapil and Preeti were said to have grown closer when they were working together on Sony Television show "Comedy Circus". They had kept their relationship a secret from everyone.

"Kapil and Preeti got attracted to each other when Kapil was doing Comedy Circus. After that, Kapil and Preeti together created 'Comedy Nights With Kapil'. Preeti has been working in the TV industry for many years," the friend told the daily. 

Earlier, Kapil was linked with his college sweetheart Bhavna Chatrath, commonly known as Ginni. But the current reports suggest that she is now Kapil's past. The comedian was also upfront about his relationship with Ginni saying he is not dating her anymore.

Kapil and Preeti are said to be serious about their relationship and want to take it to the next level. "Kapil and Preeti are likely to tie the nuptial knot next year," the friend said.

Kapil had won stand-up comedy reality series "The Great Indian Laughter Challenge" season 3. His rise to stardom came only after he was roped in as host for "Comedy Nights With Kapil".