A UP Home Welcomes a Same-Sex Bride With Songs, Smiles, and Traditions

A heartwarming and unconventional love story from Charkhari town in Uttar Pradesh’s Mahoba district has sparked widespread discussion across Bundelkhand and nearby regions. Defying long-standing social norms and expectations, two young women chose love over convention and formalised their relationship through marriage.

After being in a consensual and committed relationship for nearly three years, the couple decided to marry and live together openly. While their union initially surprised many, their recent visit to their hometown transformed scepticism into celebration, as locals welcomed them with songs, smiles, and traditional customs.

From Friendship to Lifelong Partnership

Hema, aged 20, is the daughter of Sahab Singh and runs a fruit business in Delhi along with her family. From a young age, Hema gravitated towards clothing, mannerisms, and responsibilities traditionally associated with boys, a choice her family gradually came to accept.

During visits to her maternal home in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, Hema met Pooja, an 18-year-old from the same village. What began as casual acquaintance soon developed into friendship, strengthened through frequent phone conversations and shared understanding.

Over time, their bond deepened into a loving relationship built on trust and mutual respect. After three years together, the couple decided to formalise their partnership. They married in Delhi, choosing commitment over societal pressure. Pooja later said the decision was taken with clarity and conviction, despite knowing the challenges ahead.

Initial Resistance, Gradual Acceptance

The relationship was not immediately welcomed by everyone. Hema’s parents initially expressed hesitation, while Pooja’s family opposed the union strongly. However, as time passed and the families witnessed the couple’s stability and happiness, resistance softened.

Eventually, both families agreed to accept their decision. Hema later brought her wife Pooja to Charkhari, where a large crowd gathered, curious to see the couple that had challenged traditional boundaries.

What followed surprised many. Instead of rejection, the couple was welcomed with warmth and dignity. Traditional rituals were observed as Pooja entered her marital home.

Traditions Reimagined With Acceptance

Congratulatory songs echoed through the house, while customary rituals such as muh dikhai and other post-marriage traditions were performed enthusiastically. The atmosphere was celebratory, reflecting a rare moment of social acceptance in a conservative setting.

Speaking about her journey, Pooja said that despite her family’s initial disapproval, she has wholeheartedly accepted Hema as her life partner and husband. Hema, in turn, shared that she plans to undergo gender-affirming surgery in the future, but added that their commitment to each other remains unwavering regardless of timelines.

A Shared Life Built on Mutual Support

The couple has settled into a routine that reflects partnership and balance. Pooja manages household responsibilities, while Hema continues to run her fruit business. Together, they aim to build a stable and respectful life.

Hema’s mother, Phoolbati, expressed her unconditional support, stating that a family’s happiness lies in the happiness of its children.

“We have no objection to their marriage. We have even planned a kirtan at home to welcome the couple and invited 30–40 guests,” she said, underscoring the family’s acceptance.

Challenging Norms, Inspiring Change

Hema, the third of four sisters, has drawn attention across the region for her marriage that challenges deeply rooted social conventions. While opinions remain divided, her story has opened conversations about love, identity, and acceptance in small-town India.

In a society often resistant to change, the warm welcome extended to Hema and Pooja stands as a powerful reminder that traditions can evolve — and that empathy and understanding can coexist with customs.