Couple Faces Online Trolls Amid Celebratory Wedding
A newlywed couple from central India has become the center of social media scrutiny following their recent wedding. Rishabh Rajput and Sonali Chouksey, who have been together for 11 years, faced harsh criticism from online trolls, particularly regarding the groom’s skin color. This incident highlights persistent issues of colorism in India, an enduring societal challenge that often manifests in public ridicule.
Why It Matters
The backlash against Rajput and Chouksey sheds light on entrenched colorism in India, where individuals with darker skin tones often face discrimination. Such negative attitudes not only affect personal relationships but also reflect broader cultural biases about beauty and desirability. The couple’s response to this trolling serves as a significant commentary on self-acceptance and the valuing of personal love over societal judgment.
Key Developments
- Rajput and Chouksey, who married on November 23, shared festive wedding photos on social media, which led to a wave of negative comments and memes.
- The couple faced online ridicule, particularly focusing on Rajput’s darker complexion; some insinuated that Chouksey married him for financial security.
- Rajput has openly addressed the trolling, stating that the negative comments were shocking during what was supposed to be a joyful time.
- The couple wishes to challenge societal norms surrounding skin color, emphasizing love and compatibility over superficial judgments.
Full Report
Wedding and Initial Reactions
Rishabh Rajput and Sonali Chouksey recently exchanged vows after dating for over a decade, a milestone they celebrated with a colorful wedding in Madhya Pradesh. However, their joyous occasion soon turned sour as the couple faced a torrent of online negativity after posting wedding images.
Rajput expressed dismay at the trolling, particularly during what appeared to be their happiest moment. In his remarks, he underscored that throughout their long relationship, comments about being a mismatched couple had never surfaced until now, pointing to a disconnect between their personal happiness and public perception.
Addressing Colorism and Online Criticism
The couple both work in private companies and have garnered media attention by responding directly to trolls. During an interview with BBC Hindi, Rajput highlighted how deeply he has been affected by color discrimination throughout his life. He expressed his commitment to being a loving partner, irrespective of societal norms about skin color.
Chouksey joined him in confronting the online narratives, finding the comments particularly distressing. "You think—is this how people are perceiving us?" she noted, emphasizing that while these issues may seem trivial online, they can have real-life implications for families.
Rajput further elaborated, stating that he works hard to provide for his family, dismissing jokes about him being a government employee. The couple illustrated how their relationship is built on years of understanding and support.
The Broader Impact
The couple’s experience has sparked discussions on social media, highlighting broader issues of colorism in Indian society. Rajput pointed out that a majority of people in India possess darker skin, challenging the prevailing preference for lighter complexions. Both he and Chouksey believe it is crucial to shift this mindset.
In their marriage, they see a reflection of resilience and a confrontation against societal stereotypes. Rajput’s poignant retort to the comments—“When you look at us, do we look even remotely unhappy to you?”—underscores their determination to embrace their love against the odds.
Context & Previous Events
Rajput and Chouksey met in college back in 2014, forming a bond that led them to marriage nearly a decade later. Despite their long-standing relationship, the couple was unprepared for the barrage of negative remarks that accompanied their wedding celebration, showcasing how deep-seated biases can overshadow personal milestones.
The ongoing conversation around colorism in India points to a need for greater societal change, as many continue to judge individuals based on superficial attributes rather than personal qualities and relationships.
