Love knows no bounds, and this couple is proving it. The internet recently stumbled upon a heartwarming tale of love that transcended borders, age, language, religion and culture. 47-year-old Mindy Rasmussen, originally a resident of Illinois, USA, flew all the way to Pakistan to marry her 31-year-old Facebook lover, Sajid Zeb Khan, a resident of Upper Dir district. Despite their glaring 16-year age difference, the two paid no heed to social criticisms as they tied the knot in a traditional nikah ceremony earlier this month. Their story is winning hearts online.
How a casual Facebook chat turned into a cross-border love story
US-based Mindy Rasmussen (47) met Sajid Zeb Khan (31) from Pakistan online through Facebook nearly a year ago. What began as a casual exchange of chats soon turned into deep, meaningful conversations and long video calls, and eventually, love. Despite having an age gap of 16 years, Sajid being younger, the two couldn’t deny their strong emotions towards each other.
Earlier this month, after Mindy proposed to Sajid, the couple received blessings from both their families. She then flew to Pakistan on a 90-day visit visa to tie the knot. Sajid welcomed her at Islamabad International Airport with flowers before taking her to his hometown in Upper Dir.
Mindy Ramussen converts to Islam, becomes Zulekha
When Mindy reached Sajid’s house, she received a warm welcome, showered with flowers, gifts and some celebratory rituals. Before tying the knot with Sajid, the 47-year-old converted to Islam and adopted the name Zulekha. The duo got married in a traditional nikah ceremony attended by family and neighbours. Regarding her conversion, local police confirmed the marriage took place with mutual consent and no signs of coercion.
Speaking about his now-wife’s decision to convert to Islam before marriage, Sajid clarified that it was her own decision and nothing was forced on her. He asserted Mindy’s decision to become Zulekha and said:
“She is an independent woman who can make her own decisions. We are getting married of our own free will.”
Mindy, now Zulekha, also echoed the same sentiment as her husband when she spoke about her marriage, mentioning that her family, including her father, sister, and younger brother, was aware of her journey and wholeheartedly supported her decision. Talking about Sajid, Zulekha said:
“He’s a loving and humble man. It’s his respect and honesty that made me fall in love with him.”
The new bride glowed with happiness and raved about Pakistan, praising the country’s culture, kindness, and natural beauty. Zulekha also encouraged other foreigners to visit Pakistan, saying it was an eye-opening and heartwarming experience. She was heard saying:
“It’s my first visit to Pakistan, and I must say it’s a beautiful and peaceful country. The kindness and hospitality I’ve experienced here are beyond anything I expected.”
The couple’s unusual yet touching love story has gone viral across social media platforms, with many users applauding the cross-cultural union. The couple now plans to begin immigration paperwork for Sajid and hopes to settle together in the U.S. eventually.
What are your thoughts on Mindy (now Zulekha) and Sajid’s cross-border union?
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