In the digital age of dating, two hearts collided on the app we all know and love (or hate?), Hinge. After a few messages that sparked enough curiosity and laughter, they agreed to meet at Franklin Social in Jersey City. Now, Krishna being the ever-practical one, had a backup plan: If the date went south, she’d have Alex—her emergency friend—on standby for a rescue mission. You know, in case things turned awkward and she needed someone to bail her out.
But from the second they met --something magical happened-- time slowed down, and it wasn’t because she was eyeing the nearest exit. The conversation was so effortless, and hours just melted away in that cozy restaurant, as they swapped stories and shared endless smiles.
The night only escalated from there. Next thing they knew, they were twirling and shimmying at South House, despite Pankaj’s bold claim that he “didn’t know how to dance” (spoiler: he did, but only after a few too many drinks).
What began as a ‘meh, let’s just see how it goes’ kind of meeting, turned into something truly extraordinary. Turns out, sometimes the best plans are the ones you don’t plan at all—or the ones you have a backup plan for, just in case.
The day we met Melo, our hearts were forever changed. We had been dreaming of getting a puppy for a while, but nothing could have prepared us for the moment we met him. When we walked in and saw him for the first time, he let out the tiniest little squeak—just enough to steal our hearts completely. Before we could even process it, Pankaj was already reaching for his credit card, as if our lives weren’t about to transform in the best way possible.
Bringing Melo home wasn’t without its challenges—sleepless nights, crate/potty training, and an endless supply of mischief—but all of it paled in comparison to the love he brought into our lives. Every time he flashed that goofy grin, curled up beside us, or looked at us with those big, trusting eyes, we knew without a doubt that he was meant to be ours.
Melo is playful, clingy, and endlessly adorable, and he’s brought a light into our lives we never even knew we were missing. He’s not just our dog—he’s family. Life is messier, louder, and a little more chaotic with him around, but it’s also fuller, happier, and brimming with love. We can’t imagine our home—or our hearts—without him.
Pankaj knew he wanted his proposal to be memorable and full of personal touches that reflected their journey together. He told her they were attending a fashion show event in NYC and suggested she get dressed up — but, in true Pankaj fashion, he casually mentioned they should wear their matching Air Forces.
Before heading into the city, they stopped by their old coffee shop in Jersey City, a sentimental spot from their early days together, to enjoy a coffee and reminisce. Afterward, they hopped in an Uber and made their way to what she thought was an exclusive event.
As they arrived at Summit One Vanderbilt, she started to feel that something was a bit off. The staff seemed unusually excited to see them, offering special privileges and treating them like VIPs. At the top of the building, with breathtaking views of New York City as their backdrop, a photographer approached and suggested they take a picture. Just as she posed for what she thought was a typical tourist photo, Pankaj, with the iconic skyline behind them, got down on one knee and asked her to marry him — and, of course, she said yes!
The surprises continued as they celebrated the moment with an engagement photoshoot and a champagne toast at the top of the city. But the day wasn’t over yet. Pankaj brought her to see their immediate family, where they shared hugs, happy tears, and excitement for the future.
Just when she thought the surprises were done, Pankaj had one more in store. He told her they were heading to an intimate four-course dinner at Upper Montclair Country Club. When they walked in, she was met with a room full of their closest friends and family, all gathered to celebrate their love. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day — a beautiful beginning to their next chapter together!!
Travel has been one of our favorite ways to grow together, creating memories and sharing new experiences. Our first trip to Austin was where we discovered just how much fun we have exploring new places — from bar hopping to trying all the best local food. In Orlando, we felt like kids again, spending days at Disney and Universal Studios, then treating ourselves to fancy massages and delicious meals.
Our most memorable adventure so far has been Greece for our friends Juhee and Heeten’s wedding. The stunning views and celebrations were unforgettable, and we kept the adventure going with stops in Paris and London. Paris was pure romance and incredible architecture, while London was full of energy, history, and the best Indian food we’ve ever had (after NJ/NYC of course)!
Every trip has given us new stories to tell and reminded us how much we love exploring the world — and life — together.
As we look ahead, we can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement for everything the future holds. We’re thrilled to build a life together that’s filled with love, laughter, and plenty of adventures—big and small. Whether it’s cozy weekends at home with Melo, exploring new destinations, or simply navigating life’s ups and downs hand in hand, we know that as long as we’re together, every moment will feel extraordinary.
We’re excited to grow, learn, and support one another in every way possible. We’re especially looking forward to creating a home that reflects the life we’re building together—a space full of warmth, happiness, and the occasional chaos that Melo brings.
But most of all, we’re excited to keep writing this story together—one filled with joy, love, and countless memories yet to be made. Thank you for being part of our journey, and for sharing in this beautiful new chapter of our lives!