Rishabh Rajput and Sonali Chouksey met in college 11 years ago, fell in love, and sealed their bond in marriage last month. Their wedding was vibrant and full of joy, showcasing the couple's cultural traditions. However, when they shared their special moments online, they were met with an onslaught of criticism surrounding the groom's darker skin tone.
In India, where the preference for lighter skin is pervasive, Rajput faced harsh comments and even memes mocking his appearance. The couple also experienced cruel insinuations regarding their relationship, with some suggesting Chouksey married Rajput for financial stability rather than love.
Rajput expressed his shock at the negative reactions, noting that their relationship had never been questioned before. It was supposed to be a happy moment, he reflected, expressing dismay at the public's obsession with skin color.
The couple, who married on November 23, has spoken out against the trolling, using the public attention to challenge deep-rooted biases in Indian society. They highlighted that colorism has had severe ramifications in the country and emphasized that love should not be dictated by superficial qualities.
Chouksey noted that the hateful remarks about Rajput's complexion affected her deeply, awakening concerns about how their love story is perceived. Yet the couple remains firm, advocating for kindness and understanding beyond physical appearances.
Rajput confronted the trolls directly on social media, emphasizing that he is not defined by skin tone and expressing pride in his hard work and integrity. He acknowledged enduring discrimination throughout his life but remains focused on his wife's support and their shared journey.
The wedding video, initially intended to celebrate their union, has instead become a focal point for a broader discussion on colorism and societal perceptions in India. The couple encourages others to recognize that love transcends skin color and that the society should embrace diversity in all its forms.
