The abolishment of Article 377 was a landmark moment in history for India and Indians all over the globe, and this outstanding victory against criminalisation was a long awaited sigh of relief for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Same-sex couples could now envision a future that was inclusive of them, and the nation witnessed some stunning ceremonies that celebrated love with the same gusto as a signature big fat Indian wedding.
After 3 years of being together, New-Jersey based Indian couple, Amit Shah and Aditya Madiraju recently tied the knot in a traditional ceremony in New Jersey’s BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. The breathtaking matrimony was an intimate affair with close friends and family, and looked like something out of a fairytale. “We didn’t realise the impact a simple wedding at a temple would have on people around the world looking for hope. There is no secret to acceptance, tolerance, or happiness. You just have to find the right partner to take the step with. Let the truth of your love speak for itself”, Amit and Adi said on their Instagram, captioned under a photograph of the smiling duo.
The wedding honoured their Indian roots in the most elegant manner, complete with all the ‘riti-rivaaz’ and elaborate ornamentation of the venue. The grooms even coordinated their outfits for all their wedding ceremonies and chose to twin in similar Anita Dongre outfits for their D-Day.
The couple’s wedding photographs beautifully captured the essence of their relationship, and went viral on the internet. The raw expression of their love has hopefully inspired many to come out and celebrate their identity, and has welcomed the idea of a joyous “happily ever after” for same-sex couples around the world.
Feature image courtesy - Charmi Patel Pena and Paulo Salud
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