Katihar: In a heartwarming cross-cultural union, a Russian woman tied the knot with her Indian lover in a traditional Hindu ceremony at a temple in Bihar’s Katihar district. The wedding of Dr. Anubhav Shashwat and Anastasia, a Russian national, has become the talk of the town.
The couple, who had been in a relationship for five years, solemnized their wedding on July 5 at the Durga Temple in Katihar, in the presence of family members and close friends. A grand reception is scheduled for July 10, and invitations have already been sent to relatives.
From Russia with Love
Dr. Anubhav, a native of Nabaganj, Katihar, went to Russia in 2017 to pursue an MBBS degree. It was during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that he met Anastasia. The two became friends in college, and over time, their bond turned into love.
“Convincing both families wasn’t easy,” said Anubhav. “But after introducing Anastasia to Indian culture over several visits to India, she wholeheartedly embraced our traditions and decided to marry me here in Katihar.”
Anubhav, who currently works as an ICU doctor at Max Hospital in Delhi, added, “We have no plans to settle abroad right now. For the time being, we will be in India.”
Traditional Indian Wedding
The wedding was conducted as per Hindu customs, with Anastasia adorned in a red bridal outfit, complete with mehendi, bangles, and traditional makeup. In a video that surfaced online, she is seen performing rituals with grace and poise, drawing admiration from the locals.
When the foreign bride garlanded the groom in the mandap, guests broke into celebration, dancing and clapping in joy.
“She Respects Our Culture”
Anubhav’s sister, Nisha, praised the new bride for embracing Indian traditions. “She touches the feet of elders—even the household staff—and seeks blessings. She’s more cultured than many Indian girls today,” she said with pride.
His mother, Ruby Devi, echoed the sentiment. “Our daughter-in-law made kheer during her first kitchen ritual. She may be from another country, but her heart belongs to our culture. We are proud of our son’s choice.”
