
So it all started when Nikitha came across a potential suitor on DilMil. The guy only had 2 photos, both blurry and pixelated. But one was a bungee jumping pic and the other was at a rave, and that was enough to spark a curiousity. She swiped right, “It’s a Match!”. This super basic, Age of the Internet, intro is what started their love story. From then, the two spoke every night for hours and hours, trying to learn everything about each other. And 2 weeks later, the pair finally decided to meet. A very antsy Nikitha drove down to U of I and showed up to Harish’s doorstep. The rest is history!

6 short weeks after dating, Harish popped the question. Ok not THE question, but he asked Nikitha to be his girlfriend! He gave her a necklace along with a really sweet speech, listing all the reasons he likes her and where he hopes it’ll go. He even waited to ask on Dec 18 specifically so that every anniversary would get to be celebrated on an 18th-her favorite number. And as I’m sure you’ve guessed, she said Yes.

Sai: I was already so excited about this new relationship just from seeing how giddy and smiley Bittu would be 24/7. All it took was a text from B and I would hear a muted “hehehe” next to me, and then an embarrassed smile, followed by her trying to explain to me why it was so cute or funny. Considering I have never once heard her giggle in my life before this, I knew this was probably something special.
When I met B for the first time, it was over some Hartzell’s ice cream on IUs campus. We spent the whole time joking around and roasting Bittu, a common favorite past time of ours. I was surprised how well it seemed he already knew her in that short amount of time, poking fun at stories and quirks that only her closest circle get to see. He brings out such a different side to Bittu too, which has been amazing to see. Love you guys!!

Anish: It was my first time ever in the US and I was looking forward to this trip. As excited as I was to visit my brother in UIUC, I was eager to meet his girlfriend Nikki. He’s always been talking about her to me and I just couldn’t wait to see her in person. The moment we started chatting in his apartment and hanging out, I knew she was the right fit for him. It felt so easy to talk to her and I felt that she really cared a lot about me and our family. This photo was one of the best night outs ever at Green Street and we had many memorable experiences throughout the trip.
I’m so grateful to welcome Nikki to our family. She’s such a sweet genuine person and she’s the best sister-in-law ever.

A proposal for the books! Harish had planned out an elaborate scavenger hunt with hand-written clues that led Nikitha to special spots in Chicago. Each location had a group of her friends waiting to surprise her and accompany her throughout the various activities. Starting at a nail salon for some pampering, then brunch at their favorite spot, mini golf, an escape room, and finally a hotel suite to get ready for the big moment. He arranged to have the room stocked with a whole selection of beautiful dresses, shoes, and jewelry for her to choose from. Then finally, the last clue lead her to Milton Lee Olive Park, where he was waiting for her on one knee.
A special shout out to everyone involved in making this day so so magical!!

And the story continues on February 6…