IT takes commitment to have a long lasting relationship, says Monika Ram and husband Ashneel Narayan. The couple, who tied the knot early March this year, looked relaxed as they shared their love story.
Born and raised in Suva, Monika is a tax officer at the Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority while Ashneel, who is from Sigatoka, is a chef at Saffron Restaurant.
“The most special moment of our relationship was that we had only met for half an hour before we embarked on a long-distance relationship.
“Our relationship started with a commitment to hold on to each other no matter the distance and we both kept our promises until today,” they said.
They met through friends who introduced them. It was a meeting that lasted only half an hour as Ashneel was preparing to go to New Zealand for training. That first meet would pave the path for more conversations and dates.
“Ashneel had to go for six months for a work training in New Zealand,” said Monika.
“We told each other to keep in touch and made a commitment to do so.
“In fact, we basically got to know each other through our many phone conversations. We also decided our engagement and wedding when Ashneel was in New Zealand.”
The couple had known each other for a year before deciding to tie the knot. Their wedding was held at Jai Narayan College.
“The theme for our wedding was red and gold. I wore a red and gold traditional lehnga while Ashneel wore a red and gold sherwani suit,” Monika said.
The wedding was a two-day function and included traditional rituals that had to be carried out. About 200 guests attended their special day.
“When my brothers carried me to put the garland on the groom, I got emotional,” said Monika.
“So many thoughts ran through my head about how I have come through life and to complete an important journey in my life was just tear-jerking.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better wedding. Our families were very supportive and we are indebted to them!”
