To a new phase of life . Sapthaswara shuru aagide.. ✨

Where do I begin? It all started in the 2nd or 3rd week of June 2019 at NR Colony, Basavanagudi, when I first met Kushal at a mutual friend’s house. It was around 7:00 PM, and seeing him there was a bit of a surprise. I wasn’t exactly comfortable, so I greeted him with a reluctant smile and quickly moved on to grab a quick evening snack from the vibrant stalls of Basavanagudi.

Days went by, and Kushal seemed eager to talk to me more, wanting to get closer. I gently turned him down at first, but eventually, I became more direct, telling him I didn’t want to talk. I couldn’t understand how someone could like another person at first sight and express it so quickly. Looking back now, I realize that sometimes, magic happens when you least expect it. I was 22 years old, but I was behaving like a teenager!

As more days passed, we started exchanging formal and cordial messages. He’d ask me if I had eaten lunch or dinner, and one day, I couldn’t help but ask him, “Why are you asking me all this? It’s none of your business!” I was trying to act tough, but deep down, I was just a little confused.

Eventually, he convinced me to meet him again, and so we did, at Caramelts in Jayanagar around 4:30 PM. When I arrived, he was sitting there, reading a book, looking quite serious. At that moment, I thought, “He seems like a kind-hearted, smart man.” We spent hours talking that day, from school memories to college stories and more. During those few hours, I realized how different we were from each other. I didn’t admit it then, but I’ll admit it now—I really enjoyed his company. I smiled all the way home, and now, with our wedding just 117 days away, I’m super excited!

That same day, he told me he felt a deep connection with me and that I reminded him of his mom—confident, dignified, and strong. I couldn’t understand how someone could gauge a person’s character so quickly, but it left me thinking.

Then, for about 60 days, there was complete silence between us. I decided not to speak with him at all, keeping a good distance. Despite that, he continued sending me messages, checking in on how I was doing. One day, I couldn’t hold back my emotions and told him that this wasn’t going to work. We were young, and I didn’t want to make any hasty decisions, especially given our traditional backgrounds and the expectations our parents might have.

Another month passed, and during that time, I found myself thinking about him more and more. I felt bad for the way I had treated him and was filled with guilt. I realized that there’s nothing wrong with someone expressing their true feelings, and I owed him an apology.

So, we started talking again, and the happiness I felt was unreal. But even then, a part of me kept thinking, “No, this isn’t right. This could lead to unnecessary complications.” But despite my doubts, I couldn’t deny the joy I felt when we talked.

On August 9th, 2019, during the Varamahalakshmi Habba, I had a gathering at home. That evening, after thinking about it day and night and listening to what well-wishers had to say, I decided to confess that I was okay with giving us a chance. All I ever wanted in a life partner was someone kind-hearted, open-minded, and wonderful. And in my heart, I knew Kushal was the one. That’s where our journey truly began. ♥

Our very first picture together!

The next 6-7 months were like a honeymoon phase—extra concern, extra care, and just so much love. When I reflect on these years, knowing that we’re getting married with our parents’ consent feels truly wonderful.

Walking down the memory lane through the below pictures! 💕

I want to acknowledge how amazing it is to have someone by your side as a best friend for life. I can’t thank Kushal enough for bringing so much positivity and stability into my life. He’s like an ocean—calm, even in the hardest times. I look up to him not just because he’s going to be my husband, but because he’s a kind, gentle-hearted man who respects all women. I think his mother deserves all the credit and I need to acknowledge and thank her for raising such a gentleman, especially in a world where women’s security and dignity are often at risk. And let’s not forget his silly jokes and that Bugs Bunny smile that makes me smile from ear to ear! Sometimes, I even get a little annoyed on purpose just to hear his playful scolding.

Amid all this butterfly-like happiness, there’s a rush of feelings in my heart—just like every woman who knows she’s about to get married and leave her home soon.

When we move into our new home with my in-laws and husband, there might be little moments of discomfort. It could be something as small as asking, “Can I use this piece of cloth?” It’s so strange how a newlywed woman conducts herself with such discipline in her new home—carefully using coasters, folding blankets with precision, arranging cutlery just so.

Where does that carefree freedom we had at home go, and why does it hide? Does letting go of that freedom bring happiness? Does distancing yourself from being carefree bring you the joy of living the life you wanted?

I carry these questions with me as I eagerly await our big day and look forward to a future filled with brightness, happiness, and little fights that only strengthen our bond.

The guiding principle that has brought us this far? It’s simple: no ego in any relationship. Always cherish the person, above all else. While everything else in life may be fleeting, having the right person by your side is what truly matters.

Thank you, Kushal Bhat, for making these five years so memorable and wonderful. I can’t wait for all the happiness that lies ahead with you and our family ♥️