A young couple from Madhya Pradesh, who recently married after more than a decade of dating, has become the target of online abuse after their wedding photos went viral. The groom, Rishabh Rajput, has been subjected to harsh colour-shaming, prompting him to issue a strong and dignified response.
Wedding Photos Spark Cruel Remarks
Rishabh and his partner Shonali Chouksey tied the knot after 11 years of long-distance courtship. Moments from their wedding—shared widely on Instagram and X—showed the two exchanging garlands and smiling joyfully. But what should have been their happiest moment quickly drew unwelcome attention.
Some users mocked Rishabh’s darker skin tone, questioning the couple’s compatibility and even suggesting Shonali married him for money. One post from an X user asking, “What is the core reason behind these types of marriages?” garnered more than three million views, igniting a wave of insensitive comments.
Others speculated—incorrectly—that Rishabh must hold a government job or come from a wealthy background. One troll wrote, “Bank balance matter karta hai,” while another questioned the bride’s decision, saying, “Didi, aisi bhi kya majboori thi?”
Couple Speaks Out: ‘We Don’t Care What People Say’
Despite the negativity, many social media users came forward to support the couple.
Shonali told HT.com that they were unfazed by the trolling.
“Hum par farq nahi padta log kya keh rahe hai. Hum is viral moment ko enjoy kar rahe hain,”
she said, adding that their long-distance struggles had finally ended.
Rishabh Responds With Grace and Confidence
Rishabh also addressed the online ridicule in a heartfelt statement. He said he had waited 11 years for the moment he saw Shonali walking down the aisle.
“Sorry to disappoint you. I’m not a government employee,” he wrote,
“but I work for my family and want to give them a decent lifestyle. I do have a handsome income though, but she loved me when I had nothing.”
He added that Shonali had supported him since their college days and that strangers’ opinions held no value in comparison.
‘I’ve Dealt With Racism My Entire Life’
In his message, Rishabh acknowledged the discrimination he has faced due to his skin tone.
“I cannot deny the fact that I’m black, and I have dealt with racism my entire life,”
he wrote, thanking those who stood by the couple during the trolling.
While the backlash highlighted the persistent colourism present in parts of Indian society, the couple’s composed and loving responses have earned widespread praise.
Image Source: Google | Image Credit: Respective Owner
