In a world where love is often questioned and long-distance relationships seem almost impossible, the incredible love story of Indian artist Pradyumna Kumar Mahanandia and Swedish student Charlotte Von Schedvin stands as the meaning of true love.
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
Pradyumna, an exceptionally talented artist, was known for his portrait sketches in the busy streets of Connaught Place, New Delhi, in 1975. One day, a 19-year-old Swedish woman named Charlotte, who had driven for 22 days across world in a van, arrived in India. Her purpose was simple. She wanted a portrait of herself, drawn by the artist whose work she had appreciated from around the world.
As luck would have it, both of them fell in love with each other while Mr Mahanandia was making her portrait. He fell in love with her beauty and she fell in love with his simplicity.
Their bond grew, and by the time Charlotte had to return to Sweden, they made a life-changing decision; they got married. Before leaving, Charlotte even visited Pradyumna’s village, met his family, and took blessings at the Kulante Temple, marking their commitment.
BOND BEYOND BORDERS
But their story didn’t end there. Love knows no bounds, but it does face challenges. After Charlotte returned to Sweden, Pradyumna made a promise that would seem impossible to most; he would come to her, no matter what it took. With little money to his name, Pradyumna sold everything he owned and bought a bicycle. His plan looked as impossible as it was romantic: he would cycle from India to Sweden.
And so, with nothing but his love, Pradyumna started a journey that spanned 8 countries and 4,000 miles. He cycled 70 kilometers (44 miles) every day, crossing Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey among other countries. Along the way, he used his artistic talents to earn money for food and shelter, sketching portraits in foreign lands. The journey took him four long months. Finally, against all odds, Pradyumna arrived in Sweden. When he and Charlotte were reunited, their love story was one we read in fairy tales.
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
Today, nearly 50 years later, Pradyumna and Charlotte are still together, their love as strong as ever. Their story reminds us that true love isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about the willingness to go to any lengths, to cross any border, for the person who holds your heart.
Would you do that for someone? For Pradyumna, the answer was always yes.
