In a society where traditional notions of beauty and social expectations often intersect with deep-seated prejudices, a young couple from Madhya Pradesh recently found themselves at the center of a viral controversy after their wedding photos and videos made rounds on social media. What should have been a celebration of love, commitment, and the culmination of 11 years of courtship quickly turned into a harsh confrontation with the darker side of the internet—colorism, unsolicited judgments, and invasive commentary.

Rishabh Rajput and Shonali Chouksey tied the knot after more than a decade of dating, navigating long-distance challenges, and building a bond that both say has stood the test of time. Their wedding, celebrated with traditional pomp, was meant to be a private yet joyous occasion. The bride, Shonali, wore a magenta lehenga, while Rishabh donned a traditional sherwani paired with a bright pink shawl and safa. One particularly poignant photograph, capturing the couple exchanging garlands made of white and pink roses, seemed to encapsulate the happiness and excitement of the moment. Yet, this image, instead of being celebrated for its expression of love, became a focal point for online criticism.

When the images went viral on X (formerly known as Twitter), they quickly garnered widespread attention. The post by user Divya (@Divyadubeyy) asked, “What is the core reason behind these types of marriages?” This seemingly innocuous question triggered an avalanche of comments that reflected the often cruel and judgmental nature of social media interactions. Within hours, the couple found themselves facing a barrage of criticism, much of it focused on Rishabh’s dark skin tone.

The reactions ranged from subtle innuendos to outright derogatory remarks. Some online users speculated that Shonali must have married Rishabh for his financial status rather than for love. Comments such as “Bank balance matter karta hai” and “Didi, aisi bhi kya majboori thi?” suggested that the marriage was motivated by material gain rather than genuine affection. Others assumed that he must hold a government job or have a stable professional position that would guarantee financial security, a claim Rishabh quickly dispelled.

Amid these negative remarks, the couple also received substantial support from the online community. Many people expressed solidarity and criticized the trolls for their shallow and prejudiced comments. Supporters applauded the couple for their love, resilience, and refusal to let societal standards of appearance dictate their happiness. This outpouring of positive reinforcement helped balance the negativity, showing that while social media can amplify judgment, it can also foster encouragement and empathy.

Speaking to HT.com, bride Shonali Chouksey reflected on the couple’s long-distance relationship and the challenges they overcame. She said, “Ab woh doori khatam hui. Humein farq nahi padta log kya keh re hai. Hum is viral movement ko bhi enjoy kar rhe hai.” Translated, she expressed that the distance that had separated them for years was now over, and they were choosing to focus on their joy rather than the criticism circulating online. Her remarks highlight a key aspect of the couple’s response to the backlash: a conscious decision to prioritize personal happiness over public approval.

Rishabh Rajput himself addressed the color-shaming and related criticism with a powerful and heartfelt statement. He reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that the ability to marry Shonali had been a goal he had aspired to since 2014. He wrote that he had waited for almost 11 years to reach this milestone and described the overwhelming emotions he felt when he first saw Shonali in her bridal attire. “I struggled to control my tears,” he said, emphasizing the depth of his feelings and the personal significance of the event.

In his statement, Rishabh directly confronted the judgments made about his financial status and career. He clarified that he is not a government employee, as some online users speculated, but works to provide a decent lifestyle for his family. He also affirmed that he has a “handsome income,” but what mattered most was that Shonali had loved him even during his early years when he had little to offer. He wrote, “She stood there having my back since my college days in my thin and thick, blues and greys… so your opinion doesn’t really matter.” This declaration served both as a defense against colorist and classist commentary and as a celebration of the enduring partnership they share.

Rishabh also addressed the broader societal issue of colorism in India, sharing that he has faced discrimination throughout his life due to his skin tone. He candidly acknowledged, “I cannot deny the fact that I’m black and I have dealt with the racism my entire life.” By openly discussing his experiences, he brought attention to a pervasive yet often unspoken prejudice in Indian society. His words underscored that color-based discrimination is not merely a matter of personal sensitivity but a systemic issue that affects the lives, confidence, and self-perception of countless individuals.

The couple’s response, both individually and collectively, reflects a growing cultural shift in India, where younger generations are increasingly willing to challenge societal norms, question entrenched prejudices, and assert their right to choose partners based on love rather than superficial characteristics. Their story illustrates that while social media can amplify negativity and judgment, it can also serve as a platform for resistance, empowerment, and solidarity. The support they received demonstrates that public opinion is not monolithic and that many people reject colorism and materialistic assumptions when it comes to relationships.

Experts note that instances like these highlight the dual nature of social media in contemporary society. Platforms like X and Instagram can be spaces of celebration, connection, and visibility but are equally spaces where personal decisions are scrutinized and criticized. In the case of Rishabh and Shonali, the viral attention brought unwarranted judgment but also provided an opportunity for them to share their narrative, assert their dignity, and inspire others facing similar prejudice.

Their story also sheds light on the resilience required to navigate public scrutiny. Rishabh’s emphasis on emotional support, mutual respect, and long-term commitment with Shonali offers an important lesson on the value of personal relationships over societal approval. By publicly embracing their love story and responding to criticism with grace and confidence, they are challenging the norms that associate worth with appearance, financial status, or professional achievement.

In conclusion, the experience of Rishabh Rajput and Shonali Chouksey is both a reflection of societal challenges and a testament to the power of love, resilience, and self-respect. While online trolls sought to diminish their joy based on superficial judgments, the couple’s reaction exemplifies courage and clarity. Rishabh’s acknowledgement of colorism, his pride in his achievements, and Shonali’s unwavering support highlight the importance of standing by one’s values in the face of prejudice. Their story encourages broader discussions about acceptance, the rejection of color-based bias, and the celebration of relationships founded on genuine love and mutual respect rather than societal expectation.

As their wedding photos continue to circulate online, Rishabh and Shonali remain unshaken, serving as an example for couples everywhere that personal happiness and authenticity matter far more than public opinion. In confronting the ugly side of the internet with dignity, they have transformed an experience of potential humiliation into an opportunity to assert their identity, celebrate their love, and challenge the enduring societal biases that still linger in modern India.

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