Shradha Bhansali and Sahej Sethi’s love story is a modern fairytale with a touch of ancient magic. It began in Finland on New Year’s Eve 2023, where amidst snowy landscapes and chasing the Northern Lights, they confessed their love for each other. Their connection felt destined, a feeling strengthened by the fact they were both born in the same hospital and grew up just two buildings apart. However, fate wasn’t the only force at play.
Bhansali, a devout devotee of Lord Shiva, had been observing a fast for a good husband. Her faith and determination played a role in bringing Sethi into her life. He, a Sikh mental health professional, quickly fell in love with Bhansali, a Gujarati food entrepreneur. Their love story blossomed quickly, and Sethi, instead of directly proposing, sought permission from Bhansali’s parents. Their love was undeniable, and Bhansali readily agreed.
But this wasn’t just any ordinary wedding. Bhansali had a specific dream: to marry at the Triyuginarayan temple in Uttarakhand, a sacred site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are believed to have united. This ancient temple, perched 6,500 feet above sea level, was the ideal backdrop for their union, symbolizing their own love and commitment.
The path to the temple was arduous, a grueling ten-hour drive from Dehradun airport, fraught with landslides. The couple faced a difficult decision: sacrifice their dream location or scale back their wedding party. Sethi, understanding the significance of the temple for his bride, suggested a small ceremony the very next day. Despite the initial hesitation, Bhansali’s heart was set on fulfilling her dream.
With just twelve hours’ notice, Bhansali found a red bandhani suit and jewelry at a local market in Guptakashi. Their wedding, witnessed by their immediate family, was a beautiful and intimate affair, captured by a local shopkeeper.
To honor Sethi’s Sikh heritage, they hosted a Gurudwara wedding in Powai, Mumbai. Bhansali wore a dusty rose Dolly J ensemble paired with heirloom diamond polki earrings and maang tikka from her mother-in-law. The groom’s outfit, meticulously crafted by his mother and cousin, featured intricate zardozi and dabka work.
Their love story, a testament to faith, determination, and the beauty of chasing dreams, is a reminder that true love can conquer any obstacle. Bhansali and Sethi’s journey, from a snowy Finnish night to a sacred Himalayan temple, is an enchanting tale of a love that defies boundaries and embraces tradition with a modern twist.
