Inside Out

My parents, Anjali and Vihang Desai — whom I call Amma and Papa — celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this week.

It's their Ruby Anniversary! The ruby is one of the most durable gemstones—a fitting symbol of the strength, resilience, and enduring nature of their four-decade marriage.

Their story has such a lovely beginning. They met by chance at a party — my dad was living in the US, and my mom was in India. After a brief conversation, my dad asked my mom to become pen pals.

For two years, they exchanged letters — sharing stories about their families, friends, thoughts, and dreams. Some letters even included little pieces of their lives, like a flower from the garden or Hindustani music they both loved.

My Amma said something that struck me: They got to know each other from the inside out — building a connection first — without ever meeting in person for some time! Most couples do it the other way around, from the “outside in,” spending time together in person.

Their relationship grew — brick by brick, letter by letter. Trust and closeness blossomed naturally, without any pressure or expectations. And here they are, 40 years later. Beautiful!

May their journey continue to flourish. 💌