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From Chicago, with love: American woman weds Pakistani villager after Facebook romance
ET Online | July 17, 2025 6:23 PM CST

Synopsis

Mindy Rasmussen, a 47-year-old from Chicago, found love with Sajid Zeb Khan, a 31-year-old from Pakistan, through Facebook. After a year of online connection, Rasmussen proposed, traveled to Pakistan, converted to Islam, and married Khan in his village. Rasmussen's family supports her decision, and she praises Pakistan's beauty and hospitality, highlighting their cross-cultural love story.

Representational AI Image.
An unlikely love story blossomed between 47-year-old Mindy Rasmussen from Chicago and 31-year-old Sajid Zeb Khan from Pakistan’s Usherai Dara village, reported Pakistani news outlet Dawn.
Their connection began on Facebook around a year ago and quickly deepened through regular chats and video calls. As their bond strengthened, Rasmussen proposed to Khan, and with the blessing of both families, they decided to get married.

Earlier this month, Rasmussen arrived at Islamabad International Airport on a 90-day visa. Greeted with flowers by Khan, the couple then travelled to his remote village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Upon her arrival, Rasmussen was welcomed warmly by the local community, who extended traditional hospitality and gifts.

Marriage and embracing a new faith

Before tying the knot, Rasmussen converted to Islam and adopted the name Zulekha. The couple’s marriage followed local customs and Islamic traditions, with celebratory photos and videos later shared by Rasmussen on Facebook.
According to the report, dspite the geographical and cultural distance, Rasmussen said her family in the United States supports her decision. “My father, older sister, and younger brother know I’m here and are excited for me,” she told local media. She described her new husband as “a loving and humble man.”


Khan emphasized that Rasmussen’s conversion to Islam was entirely her choice. “There was no pressure from me or my family. She is a mature woman capable of making her own decisions,” he said, reiterating that their union was based on mutual love and consent.

A warm welcome to Pakistan

Reflecting on her first visit, Rasmussen expressed admiration for the country and its people. “It’s a beautiful and peaceful country. The kindness and hospitality I’ve experienced here are beyond anything I expected,” she told the news outlet.

The couple’s cross-cultural love story has captivated local media and social platforms, adding another chapter to the growing trend of global online relationships leading to real-world unions.


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