A love story that started in NYC unfolded beautifully in the sacred city of Madina al-Munawara, where Hayaa and Aryan celebrated their Nikah. I had the privilege of documenting Hayaa and Aryan’s engagement ceremony (Nikah) in front of Masjid al-Nabawi, the Prophet Muhammad’s Grand Mosque, a location so spiritually significant that it added a profound layer of meaning to the entire event.


Hayaa and Aryan’s journey began when Hayaa traveled across the country to visit her friends in NYC. During her stay, she met Aryan through mutual friends. His sharp wit, warm personality, and thoughtful conversations caught her attention, but Hayaa, ever the pragmatist, decided to focus on completing her university studies before pursuing the idea of a serious relationship. Over time, their bond deepened, and when the moment was right, they chose to begin their shared journey in a way that honored their faith and brought their loved ones together.


The ceremony was nothing short of magical. Friends and family flew in from various corners of the world—New York City, the Bay Area of San Francisco, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan—to witness this momentous occasion in Saudi Arabia. The diverse cultural backgrounds of the guests made the event a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and emotions, all coming together in harmony. The love and support surrounding the couple were palpable, creating an atmosphere of pure joy.

Masjid al-Nabawi stood majestically in the background, its iconic green dome glowing softly in the afternoon light. The significance of the location was not lost on anyone present. Being in one of the holiest sites in Islam lent a sense of peace and sanctity to the celebration. As I captured the couple exchanging vows and signing their Nikah contract, I couldn’t help but feel deeply moved by the gravity of the moment. The love they shared was not just for each other but also for their faith and the families who nurtured them.


Hayaa’s mother, Rashmi, played an instrumental role in organizing the ceremony. It was Rashmi who reached out to me, trusting me to immortalize this special day through my lens. I am forever grateful for her faith in my work and her warmth throughout the process. Watching her beam with pride and joy as her daughter stepped into a new chapter of her life was a beautiful sight to witness. The couple’s attire reflected a perfect blend of elegance and tradition. Hayaa’s soft, pastel-hued outfit adorned with intricate embroidery complemented Aryan’s timeless sherwani. Together, they radiated happiness and grace, making every frame I captured feel like a piece of art.


As the evening progressed, heartfelt speeches, laughter, and prayers filled the air. The family took the time to honor their elders, celebrate their cultural roots, and share their hopes for Hayaa and Aryan’s future. It was a reminder of how love brings people together, transcending borders and differences.

Reflecting on this day, I am reminded of the privilege it is to do what I do. If you’re looking to capture your own special moments with heartfelt and meaningful photography, I would be honored to be part of your journey. Photographing such a significant milestone in a couple’s life, especially in a setting as sacred as this, is an honor I do not take lightly. The trust and warmth extended to me by Hayaa, Aryan, and their families made the experience even more special.

To Hayaa and Aryan, thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. May your life together be as beautiful and blessed as the day you said “I do” in front of Masjid al-Nabawi.

Large retractable umbrellas illuminate the courtyard of Masjid Al-Nabawi mosque in Medina during evening prayers.
People wearing traditional Middle Eastern attire gather outside in an urban setting near traditional architecture.
People gather for prayer at a mosque courtyard under a blue sky with architectural details in the background.
A group of people in traditional Islamic dress gather outdoors during a religious or cultural gathering.
Group of people in traditional attire gathered under geometric umbrellas at Al-Masjid al-Nabawi mosque in Medina.
A diverse group wearing traditional Muslim attire gathered outdoors against a cloudy sky background.
A group of men in traditional Middle Eastern attire share a joyful moment while sitting together on a couch.
A group of people wearing colorful traditional clothing and hijabs gather together in an indoor setting at a social function.
A group of people dressed in white and traditional clothing gather for a cultural or religious gathering in a sunlit room.
Dimly lit massage parlor interior with reclining chairs and soft blue ambient lighting.
Two women wearing elegant cream and gold traditional outfits stand together in a room with decorative curtains.
Performers in vintage period costumes prepare and interact during a theatrical performance on stage.
A person in an elegant lace wedding dress sits quietly by a window in warm ambient lighting.
Traditional South Asian bride wearing ornate white and gold wedding attire with detailed jewelry and headpiece at ceremony.
A tender moment at a wedding celebration shows people in elegant traditional attire with intricate embroidered details.
A couple in traditional South Asian wedding attire share a joyful moment during their ceremony.
A traditional South Asian wedding couple in ornate gold and cream attire share an intimate moment during their ceremony.
Couple in intimate low-light setting with warm candlelight glow creating romantic ambiance against dark curtained background.
Tender loving moment captured in warm light against dark curtains with framed artwork in background.
A group in traditional white and cream-colored South Asian wedding attire stands together in an elegantly lit hallway.
Traditional Pakistani wedding ceremony with guests in matching olive green vests and white kurtas on red carpeted floor.
A traditional wedding ceremony taking place with participants in white traditional attire seated at a decorated stage.
Elegant wedding ceremony with floral arch backdrop and turquoise drapery in soft pink and white tones.
Couple in traditional South Asian wedding attire with floral details sit together against white floral backdrop.
A person in blurry focus looks into a decorative mirror on the wall with a golden hue.
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