When 26-year-old Payal Sharma, who is visually impaired, had to write her paper for the Masters exam in Sanskrit, it was time to look for a “writer.” Perhaps, it was love at first sight for Hardik but for Payal, who could only relate on a sensory level to her exam writer, going with instincts took a four-year test period. Literally.
Hardik Dave and Payal Sharma’s story is the stuff romantic blockbusters feed on.
Four years ago in 2018, when it was time for Payal to write the paper, her family came upon Hardik. A degree holder in Sanskrit, he earned a living as “paper writer ‘” for the visually challenged. A part-time astrologer too, he recounts the many marriage proposals his family received for him. However, his fate was destined.
“We never proclaimed our love for each other. In fact, we never met, except during exams. But each time I was with her, I knew there was more to it,” blushes the newly-wed groom. The couple tied the knot on November 28 and are settled in Narol.
For her part, Payal recounts how Hardik would be careful each time he picked up and dropped her off during exams. “I could sense his concern and I was aware of my feelings too,” as she puts it. Now a visiting faculty at Blind People’s Association, she adds that the duo hardly interacted “ not even festive greetings,” except during exam periods.
Facing familial opposition was but a natural corollary for Hardik and the fact that she is a year older, made matters worse. “I knew our stars were conjoined. I fell in love with her dedication and warm nature,” he recollects.
When Hardik mustered the courage to propose in September 2020, she perhaps knew it was coming her way. After tiding over the much- anticipated resistance from his family, the couple then had to wait for the second Covid wave to subside.
Now man and wife, the couple are an example to believe that love is blind. But setting out on a journey together, is the best part. “She is an excellent cook and homemaker,” informs Hardik, adding that together, they are happier than ever before.
