Not all love stories begin in childhood. But before he was 10 years old, Shamir Raphael Talkar met the person who later became the love of his life — Steffi Shamir Talkar. At JDC’s Evelyn Peters Jewish Community Center (EPJCC) in Mumbai, and through the Jewish Youth Pioneers (JYP) — JDC’s program for young adults in India — Steffi and Shamir developed an unshakeable bond, and their relationship eventually led to marriage.

This Tu B’Av, Steffi and Shamir sit down with us to reflect on their love story — and how JDC programming helped foster their lifelong connection.

Steffi (left) and Shamir at their wedding venue in Mumbai.

Q: How did you two meet?

Steffi Shamir Talkar: We first met when we were just seven or eight years old at Gan Katan (Jewish Sunday school), organized by the Jewish Youth Pioneers (JYP). Over the years, we attended numerous camps together, each one bringing us closer. Those experiences helped us build a strong bond and create countless cherished memories, making our friendship even more special.

Shamir Raphael Talkar: Our bond grew through shared experiences, like shabbatons, memorable camp trips, and engaging in deep conversations. Whether we were singing Jewish songs around a bonfire, kayaking on lakes, or trekking mountains together, those moments forged a strong bond between us.

Q: What do you most admire about each other?

SST: Shamir is extremely supportive and caring, always there to offer a helping hand or a kind word. His compassion and kindness are evident in everything he does. He truly has a heart of gold.

SRT: We admire the ease and comfort we share with each other. Her caring nature, rooted in a family-oriented upbringing, ensures that family always comes first. This is coupled with her ambitious drive, her constant striving for personal and professional growth, setting high standards for herself, and inspiring those around her to reach their fullest potential.

Q: What was your wedding like?

SST: Our wedding was a fairytale come true, heightened by the richness of our Jewish traditions. After months of meticulous preparation, countless last-minute changes, and all the stress that came with it, the day turned out to be absolutely worth it. Standing under the beautiful chuppah, surrounded by loved ones, we felt the weight of tradition and the promise of our future together. Every detail, from the breaking of the glass to the heartfelt blessings, contributed to an unforgettable and magical experience. We still can’t get over how enchanting and special our Jewish wedding day was, filled with love, joy, and cherished memories.

SRT: It was like attending a perfectly orchestrated concert, fulfilling my long-held vision of marrying the love of my life. It marked the most beautiful moment of my life, filled with joyous dancing that carried us through the day. Despite navigating the challenges of COVID-19, we meticulously implemented all necessary precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. The centerpiece of our ceremony was the breath-taking chuppah, where we solemnly signed our ketubah (marriage contract). This act symbolized our deep bond and commitment to each other, promising to support and cherish one another through every phase of life — from times of abundance to times of adversity, and from moments of pure happiness to those of heartfelt sorrow.

Shamir (left) and Steffi strike a pose on their wedding day.

Q: What’s the secret to a successful relationship?

SST: Patience is key in every relationship, as every couple experiences ups and downs. Consistent effort and time can mend most things. Sometimes, a bit of discretion and empathy can also go a long way in resolving conflicts. It doesn’t hurt to be a little deaf and dumb at times, too.

SRT: I believe that effective communication and unwavering commitment are the bedrock of a joyful and thriving marriage. Clear and open communication fosters understanding, empathy, and the ability to resolve conflicts.

Q: You’ve long participated in Jewish community programs — particularly through JYP and the EPJCC. What role did your Jewish life play in fostering your relationship to each other? How did it strengthen your connection?

SST: JYP has been pivotal in our relationship — it was through JYP that I met the love of my life. Being Jewish has further enriched our relationship, fostering a deep connection through shared values, traditions, and a strong sense of community.

SRT: JYP played a crucial role in our relationship by helping us understand our personalities and compatibility. The Jewish teachings and lessons we absorbed through programs hosted by JYP and the EPJCC enriched our connection in profound ways. Our involvement in the Jewish community strengthened our bond through shared experiences, traditions, and a sense of belonging. It offered us opportunities to grow together spiritually and emotionally, reinforcing our commitment to each other within the framework of our faith.

JYP played a crucial role in our relationship — the Jewish teachings we absorbed enriched our connection in profound ways.

Q: What’s the most important thing to remember about your love story?

SST: The most important thing to remember about our relationship is the commitment we share, built on love, trust, and mutual respect. Our relationship is the continuous effort we both put into understanding, supporting, and growing with each other, regardless of the challenges we face.

SRT: For me, the most important thing to remember is this: I knew she was the one 12 years ago, when we were teenagers — and I waited for the day I could steal her away for good and make her my wife.

Steffi Shamir Talkar is a fashion designer with a proven track record at prestigious, leading designer brands. She is proud to lead ELSTESH as its founder and CEO and thrilled to announce that the brand will be launching soon. With ELTESH, her goal is to introduce fresh, unique designs that reflect her passion for creativity and innovation, and she aims to offer stylish and original apparel that makes a distinct mark in the fashion industry. She is committed to bringing high-quality, innovative fashion to enthusiasts who appreciate originality and style.

Shamir Raphael Talkar is the Associate Business Lead – MEP & Green Building at one of India’s foremost consulting firms. With extensive experience in MEP design and project management across diverse sectors including hospitals, commercial spaces, high-end residences, educational institutes, Infra Projects, etc., he brings a wealth of expertise to his role. His focus lies in delivering innovative solutions that ensure efficiency, sustainability, and excellence in every project. Additionally, he serves as the co-founder and COO of ELSTESH, a dynamic fashion label known for its innovative designs and commitment to quality. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the fashion industry, he plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the brand.

Evelyn Peters Jewish Community Center

This Tu B’Av, Two Young Leaders Find Love in India