In a modern-day international love story, a 47-year-old woman from Chicago, Mindy Rasmussen, traveled to the remote village of Usherai Dara in Pakistan to marry 31-year-old Sajid Zeb Khan — a man she met online through Facebook.
According to Dawn, the pair connected about a year ago and began chatting regularly. Their online friendship soon turned into video calls and blossomed into love. Eventually, Rasmussen took the lead and proposed to Khan. With the blessings of both families, she made the long journey to Pakistan to marry him.
Earlier this month, Rasmussen arrived at Islamabad International Airport, where Khan greeted her with flowers. The couple then headed to his home village in Upper Dir, where she was warmly welcomed with traditional hospitality and gifted items from friends and family.
A Wedding Across Cultures
Rasmussen entered Pakistan on a 90-day visa and converted to Islam before the wedding, adopting the name Zulekha. The couple tied the knot following Islamic traditions and local customs. Photos and videos of the celebration were shared by Rasmussen on her Facebook page, capturing moments from the ceremony.
“This is my first time visiting Pakistan, and I must say, it’s a beautiful and peaceful country,” Rasmussen told local media. “The kindness and hospitality I’ve experienced here are beyond anything I expected.”
Family Support
Rasmussen shared that her family in the U.S. fully supports her decision. “My father, older sister, and younger brother know I’m here and are excited for me,” she said. She also described Khan as “a loving and humble man.”
No Pressure to Convert
Addressing her conversion to Islam, Khan emphasized that the decision was entirely her own. “There was no pressure from me or my family,” he said. “She is a mature woman capable of making her own choices. We are marrying of our own free will.”
