Scarred By Acid, Healed By Love

Pramodini Roul (Rani) was just 15 when a 28-year-old paramilitary soldier doused her face with acid after she rejected his marriage proposal.

Rani had to spend four months in the ICU immediately after the incident and later spent four years bedridden at her house in Odisha while her widowed mother took care of her alone, bandaging her wounds.

She went partially blind and suffered horrific burns.

She met Saroj Kumar Sahoo in March 2014 at a private nursing home. Spending most of her time in bed or in the hospital, Rani hadn't ever imagined that love would ever knock on her door. Saroj began visiting the hospital regularly and began encouraging her. Eventually, he quit his job and started devoting around 8 hours to look after Rani.

Rani had not been able to see Saroj until this September when she underwent the first surgery in the left eye. Yet, she says she had already been charmed.

As the two began spending more time together, their friendship turned into love.

"It was on 14th January 2016. We were in Agra, where he wept and proposed me," Rani said.

The two have been living together for a couple of years in New Delhi and are now planning to get engaged on this valentine’s day.

Couple lying on the bed looking at each other.

Saroj and Rani standing by the window in a happy mood.

Couple sharing smiles while looking in the mirror.

Rani may not look like the 17-year-old in the passport-size photograph anymore, but she isn't a scared 26-year-old either.

Couple walking down the street holding hands.

In front of a window, Rani welcoming a new sunrise and a new day.

Couple enjoying a romantic evening on the balcony, embracing, smiling.

Rani got Saroj's name inked on her arm.

Rani has gone through five reconstructive surgeries.

Couple leaning against door frame, looking at each other.

Saroj and Rani, holding each other's hand. The couple are getting engaged this valentine's day.