Cheshta Bhagat and Nikhil’s paths crossed on the sets of Temptation Island, a reality show shot in Alibaug. Despite being there for different reasons, they say they “connected on a deeper level, beyond the superficiality of the show.”
“While the premise was about resisting temptation, we found solace and understanding in each other. It wasn’t about succumbing to physical desires; it was about the emotional connection we shared. We realised that we were each other’s rock, ready to support and cherish one another beyond the confines of the show,” she says.
Credit: Instagram/cheshtabhagat and Instagram/aerreo
What made Cheshta & Nikhil stick with each other
Cheshta, who is from Bombay and Nikhi, who hails from Chandigarh, didn’t sign up for the show expecting to find love, but they were hopeful of building meaningful connections. She was seeking closure from her toxic past relationship, while Nikhil was open to new experiences. “We didn’t expect to find love on a reality show, but we were hopeful for personal growth and meaningful connections,” she shares.
In a show like Temptation Island, however, navigating emotions and staying true to their connections amidst the intense environment is not easy. However, what helped them sail through all the challenges was having each other’s back. Cheshta shares, “We found solace in each other’s presence, knowing that we could be our authentic selves without fear of being misunderstood or judged.”
Credit: Instagram/cheshtabhagat and Instagram/aerreo
They say that love liberates you and Cheshta and Nikhil agree. “With each other, we discovered a sense of peace and acceptance that we had never experienced before. In each other’s company, we found the freedom to be ourselves, to grow, and to love without constraints or expectations,” said the duo as they talk about love so passionately that I couldn’t hold myself from asking more.
“What’s love?” I ask.
A love that uplifts you
“Our idea of love has evolved over the years, especially after meeting each other. We’ve come to realise that love isn’t just about grand gestures or fleeting moments; it’s about the simple joys, mutual respect, and unwavering support that we find in each other every day,” he tells me.
Credit: Instagram/cheshtabhagat and Instagram/aerreo
I am told that their relationship stands out for its simplicity, their shared understanding, and mutual support. “Unlike past relationships marked by toxicity and insecurity, our bond with each other is built on trust, communication, and genuine care. We don’t feel the need to compete or prove ourselves; instead, we celebrate each other’s successes and uplift one another,” shares Cheshta.
Reality show couples are also a couple
Credit: Instagram/cheshtabhagat and Instagram/aerreo
Love doesn’t come without its own set of challenges and this couple, too, has to brave them. People also have preconceived notions about couples who meet during reality shows. But Nikhil and Cheshta remain unfazed. “Adjusting to a long-distance relationship required extra effort in communication and trust-building to bridge the gap between us. We don’t pay much heed to external opinions because our journey is our own. We believe that love knows no boundaries, whether it’s found on a reality show or in everyday life. Our focus is on nurturing our relationship, one day at a time, and proving that genuine connections can indeed withstand the test of time,” the couple shares.
Lead image credit: Instagram/cheshtabhagat and Instagram/aerreo
