Kanakavalli Bride : Srilekhya

Srilekhya weds Hardik

Kanakavalli Bride Srilekhya doesn’t believe in love at first sight, but when she met Hardik for the first time, something told her that he was was ‘the one’. On their first date, the couple went on a bike ride through downtown Chicago. Srilekhya was very nervous about biking in the busy city streets, but, sensing her fears, Hardik kept looking back to check on her and make sure she was okay. His thoughtfulness is something that stayed with Srilekhya. Over time, they grew closer, building a relationship rooted in trust, love and a shared vision for their future.

Once Hardik had met Srilekhya’s family, he travelled to India in October 2024 to get the blessings of both their grandparents. When he returned to the US, he planned a sweet proposal in Colorado Springs, at the most beautiful spot, in the middle of a snowstorm. Srilekhya says it was magical and heartfelt – a perfect reflection of them as a couple.

For Srilekhya, the best part of their wedding was having events in each of their hometowns – Tanuku in Andhra Pradesh for her, and Mumbai for Hardik. This allowed them to connect with their roots, in the places they both spent the first five years of their lives before moving to the US. She says it was very special to celebrate the beginning of their marriage in the places that shaped their early memories.

During the ceremony – with its traditional and joyful rituals – Srilekhya focused on simply staying present. She wanted to experience that moment together with Hardik, soaking it all in even as they reflected on the last four years that brought them to this day. Since then, Srilekhya says, married life has been amazing. The foundation of love and trust that they’ve built grows stronger each day, and they lead lives filled with gratitude.

For brides-to-be who are planning their weddings, Srilekhya’s advice is to take a step back and live in the moment. No matter how meticulously you plan, she says, things won’t be perfect, but what is most important is to experience the joy of the big day and celebrate with the people who are truly there for you.

Srilekhya’s mother brought her to Kanakavalli’s Hyderabad store, telling her that they had the best curation of traditional kanjivaram saris. As soon as she walked into the store, Srilekhya says she experienced a deep sense of pride that made her want to choose a bridal sari that felt deeply traditional and truly timeless. The team at the store made the experience unforgettable with their warmth and kindness, helping her as she picked out a beautiful kanjivaram in shades of gold. Her mother also picked out a gorgeous Kanakavalli kanjivaram for the wedding. The entire process, says Srilekhya, felt seamless and joyful.

A big thank you to Srilekhya for being a beautiful Kanakavalli Bride and sharing the story of her wedding with us. We wish her and Hardik a lifetime of love and laughter.