Cinema VinesBollywood actress Swara Bhasker and politician Fahad Ahmad revealed that their romance was sparked by former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student leader and activist Umar Khalid, who acted as their “cupid.” In an interview on the Midnight Hour podcast, Ahmad recalled that Khalid had sent him Bhasker’s phone number and urged him to call her, saying, “I’m sending you Swara’s number, you just call her.” Ahmad followed the advice, and after a few rings Bhasker answered, beginning what would become a lifelong partnership.
Bhasker explained that she normally does not pick up calls from unlisted numbers, but at the time she was actively involved in protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The solidarity of the movement prompted her to answer an unknown call, which turned out to be Ahmad’s. The two first met on the protest floor and remained friends for three years before discussing a romantic relationship, ultimately marrying in 2023 under the Special Marriage Act and celebrating with a grand reception in Delhi on March 16.
When asked about their interfaith marriage, Bhasker said there were no problems, emphasizing that honesty and goodness are the most important foundations. She added that her love for Ahmad is rooted in feeling safe and protected, stating that he will never hurt or betray her. The couple announced their pregnancy in June 2023, a few months after their wedding.
Umar Khalid, now serving a sentence in Tihar Jail following his 2020 arrest in connection with the Delhi riots conspiracy case, remains a key figure in the story of how Bhasker and Ahmad’s paths crossed. Their love story, born out of activism and friendship, continues to capture public interest as the couple navigates life together in the public eye.
