A woman from Malaysia has travelled to Bangladesh for love and tied the knot with a man hailing from Noakhali.
Smriti Ayesha bin Ramasamy, 22, recently wedded Farhad Hossain, 26, a resident of the Hajipur area of Chowmuhani municipality under Begumganj upazila of Noakhali.
The newlywed bride has now become the centre of attention of curious locals, who frequent Farhad's home to catch a glimpse of her.
According to family sources, Farhad went to Malaysia in search of livelihood five years ago and secured a job at a company. It was there he met Smriti, and soon their acquaintance blossomed into love. After his contract at the company ended this year, Farhad returned to Bangladesh. However, he stayed in touch with Smriti and the couple decided to get married.
Smriti then flew thousands of miles and reached Bangladesh. She arrived in Noakhali on June 24 via Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
On June 25, Farhad and Smriti got married in court. The couple now resides in Farhad's home in the Hajipur area.
Locals are eagerly visiting the house to see the foreign bride, whom Farhad's family is overjoyed to have as their new daughter-in-law.
"Smriti and I were in a relationship for over four years. When I returned home, Smriti contacted me and decided to come to Bangladesh out of her love for me. According to Malaysian law, Smriti is an adult and made the decision to come to Bangladesh herself. We are all happy with our marriage – myself, Smriti and my entire family," said Farhad.
Smriti, who can speak a little Bangali, said: "I love Farhad, I love Bangladesh. The environment here, the hospitality and everyone's love have enchanted me. Farhad's entire family has accepted me as their own. I am extremely happy to be living a harmonious life with everyone."
