The Lengths One Can Go For Love and Passion

This Indian man fell in love with a Swedish tourist, and they instantly got married. However, she left him to return to Sweden, so he travelled 9,000 kilometres on bike to see her again…

Dr. Pradyumna Kumar Mahanandia’s journey is a compelling story of love and resilience. Born into a tribal family in Odisha, India, he overcame significant challenges to pursue his passion for art. In 1975, while a student at the Delhi College of Art, he met Charlotte Von Schedvin, a Swedish tourist who had heard of his talent for creating soulful portraits.

When Charlotte asked him to draw her portrait, an instant connection sparked between them, leading to a whirlwind romance. After their marriage in India according to tribal traditions, Charlotte returned to Sweden to complete her studies, and they kept in touch through letters.

In 1977, unable to afford a flight, Mahanandia sold all his belongings and set out on a 9,000 kilometre journey to Sweden on a bicycle. Crossing continents, he pedaled through Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, and Europe, often relying on his artistic skills to earn food, shelter, and support. After a four-month journey, he finally reunited with Charlotte in Sweden.

Today, PK Mahanandia is a respected artist and a cultural advisor in Sweden, where he and Charlotte have raised a family, embodying their enduring love and the connection they share across cultures and continents. Their story has gained international attention as a testament to the lengths one can go for love and passion.