Wedding Party
Arpit Goyal
Best Man and Brother of Groom
Hey everyone, Arpit here – Rachit’s brother and best man. Some might call it nepotism but I call it the ultimate test of brotherhood. I have to plan a bachelor party, keep his shoes safe and secure (Indian wedding tradition), and make sure Rachit shows up on time at the mandap. All while proving I'm the better brother in front of all our friends and family. You guys might know him as Rachit, Dr. Goyal, or even “Deadly Hookshot” (his self-proclaimed basketball nickname. I have his custom made jersey to prove it). But I know him as Gannu. That’s right – Gannu – his childhood nickname. I have been looking up to him ever since I can remember. Mostly because he was always bigger than me but still. Look, there is no denying that watching him grow up and become the wonderful person he is today has been one of the greatest joys of my life. He inspires me with his kindness, finding the good in every situation, and unwavering commitment to his dreams. But the path to getting there always wasn’t pretty. I feel a moral obligation to share all these unpretty stories about Rachit, not to embarrass him, but because Niya deserves to know every detail of the man she's marrying. I could do this in private, but then it wouldn’t be as fun. I look forward to seeing you all at the wedding. -Arpit
Prashant Sukhani
Groomsman
Rachit is the brother that I’m glad I never had! 😂 All jokes aside, Rachit has been part of my family since we met at college in 2006. I will never forget the day we met when he decided to take my seat in calculus class. Initially, I was upset at that this guy but as I got to know him he became an inseparable friend. I am happy that he has found his other half because his constant attachment to me was getting overwhelming lol… Rachit is a true friend that knows how to make his friends laugh and feel loved. I’m hoping my stories and presence at his wedding can do the same. Congratulations my brother and Niya! 🍾
Ashish Mahtani
Groomsman
Roughly 20 years ago, someone at our school asked me if I knew Rachit, and I said "No, I don't", to which they replied "Oh, you don't? You're both Indian". So obviously we be came friends and this sparked a lifetime friendship. Through many shared common interests and similar hobbies , our friendship grew and I can now genuinely say that Rachit is family (honestly, he spends more time with my parents nowadays than I spend with him). He is a great friend and a wonderful person, and it makes me happy and proud on the life he has created and the future he has chosen for himself.
Andrew Atisha
Groomsman
I met my boy, Rachit, in a rather unconventional way. Just by browsing random Facebook photos of people in my class, I stumbled upon his profile. His goofy profile pictures instantly made me laugh, and I had a gut feeling that he would be a great roommate. I decided to message him, and to my delight, he was enthusiastic about the idea of living together. Right from the beginning, Rachit and I hit it off and became instant best friends. Initially, he was shy and innocent, but living with me seemed to bring out a whole new side of him. Over time, he transformed into a hilarious and confident boss, thanks to our shared experiences and adventures. We made countless memories together during our four years of living under the same roof. From our very first taco dinner in our apartment to wild house parties that stretched into the early hours of the morning, our experiences were both numerous and wholesome. Through it all, Rachit and I formed a bond that goes beyond mere friendship; he has become like a brother to me. Living with Rachit has been an incredible journey of growth, laughter, and shared experiences. I am grateful to have met him through a spontaneous decision to choose a roommate based on a few Facebook photos. Our time together has shaped both of us, and I cherish the memories we've created along the way. Congrats to you and Niya. Love you and cant wait to celebrate.
Vince Napoli
Groomsman
It all started in Davis, Florida. Yes, you read that right, not Paris, NY, or even Tokyo, but Davie, the undisputed gem of the world - or so Rachit and I have come to jest. Our story begins off at the prestigious Nova Southeastern University, where a local Floridian l and a quintessential Chicagoan Indian friendship formed over late-night study seshes searching for TQs, sports gambling, the racketball court, and Laudy nightlife. Yet, not all our memories are spotless smiles. There was one evening young in our relationship when I quite literally left a piece of me at Rachit (and Andrew’s) apartment. This was a rather vivid display of friendship - me, baptizing his living room floor and bookshelf. But our bond solidified when I introduced Rachit to the all-consuming world of college football. We journeyed to GVegas, aka Gainesville, took refuge in my old stomping grounds - the legendary "Kerch House" Under the blazing Florida sun, amidst fans in the swamp, Rachit discovered that sweating in Florida is way better than freezing in Chi Town. The Windy City boy became a Gator fan, and I couldn't have been prouder. So here we are, more than just friends - we're family. From teaching rachit incline dumbbell press at the gym (photo attached) to the storms of dental school, shared triumphs, faced down past test papers, and yes, even indulged the solfo nightlife. I am excited to celebrate Rachit and Niya. I hope she takes care of him just like Andrew did in Dental School. Love Vince
Genarro Coscarella
Groomsman
I had first met Rachit when I had went over to hangout with Andrew. I always thought it was weird that he would eat with hands but I quickly realized that was his culture. We developed our friendship over our love for playing basketball and watching NBA. We would often play 1 on 1 at the nova gym where I would constantly beat him.
Matt Rolfes
Groomsman
So today is the day… Brown boy is getting hitched!! My relationship with Rachit starts back in 2011 at Nova Southeastern University, College of Dental Medicine. It was a rough first week of school, and all of us were still getting to know each other. During one of our breaks, I heard about a ping pong table in a lounge. When I entered the room, I saw this scrony Indian guy running game on the table. After every game, he walked around like Michael Jordan, mumbled something and proceeded to play again. This time, white man(me) stepped up. After a fierce pong sesh….Rachit defeated me as well! From that point on, our relationship grew and I was dubbed the “honorary brown guy.” One time for Halloween, Rachit and I were trying to figure out what we would dress up as. We concluded he would dress up as me..the typical white guy, and I would dress up as him-the typical brown guy. Seeing him in a Budweiser visor, cargo shorts and a guy Harvey shirt complete with a fishing pole prop was absolutely priceless. I’m sure it was equally comical seeing me as an Indian guy asking where the nearest butter chicken stand is. Dental school came and went and to this day we remain great friends. He is my bunkmate during CE seminars with our fellow colleagues, my business consultant and most of all my Indian brother. Niya, I have no idea what you see in this kid but he loves the hell out of you! I am so happy to be a part of this special day, I love you guys and may God bless you both!
Vivek
Groomsman
Rachit has been like a close friend of mine even though he’s my first cousin. Over the past years, we have gotten close and I’ve gotten to know him really well. There are actually a lot of things I’ve learned from him and admire about him – his happy go lucky attitude, his humor, his generosity (evidenced by him offering me $5 for each compliment I can muster up for him. Rachit you owe me $15) . He is a true friend for his friends and someone anyone can rely on for anything. He is also my kids’ favorite uncle, a title he earned after he bought a place with a pool that my kids love jumping into! As he moves into this next phase of life, I can tell he’s really excited. Excited enough to ignore all of my warnings who has 12 years of married life on him. But he’s ready and I know this next phase of his life will be the best one yet. Congrats bud! (and condolences to Niya)
Shazeen Sayani
Bridesmaid
I met Niya back in 2018 under the most random circumstances. We didn’t go to school together, we aren’t in the same profession and we didn’t even live in the same city. We met by pure chance! Niya has always been an incredibly inspiring and strong woman! This woman does all the things. She is a pediatric anesthesiologist, she is a classically trained professional dancer, she can even thread your eyebrows and apply mehndi on you! You name it, she does! She isn’t afraid to do the hard things in life, whether it’s drive cross country to Canada alone, move states and homes alone multiple times for her career. I can’t say most woman are able to do what she does. She has really inspired me to be the best version of myself over the years because of her rigor and perseverance. You rarely meet a woman who is as fierce as she is. When I met her in 2018, she was instantly the sweetest person in that group. She was caring and considerate. She went the extra mile and I thought to myself, how is this girl such an amazing human with a kind heart and so humble of her insane accomplishments. Over the years I learned Niya doesn’t instantly feel a connection with just anyone, but I felt very special that we naturally clicked. She says she gravitated toward me because I am a CPA like her mom. Haha :) It wasn’t until 2019 when she moved to Chicago for residency that we bonded even more. I am so excited to get this girl married and honored to be her maid of honor.
Ronak Patel
Brother of Bride
As the older brother of the bride-to-be, I couldn't be prouder of the amazing woman Niyati has become. From the time we were kids fighting over Harry Potter Books to today, she has always been a source of joy, inspiration, and unwavering determination. Her grace, elegance, and kind heart have made her a beacon of love and compassion to those around her. I am thrilled to witness her take the next step in life, and I know that her wedding day will mark the beginning of an exciting chapter in her life. Congratulations!
Isha Patel
Bridesmaid
Everyone in our family knows Niya as the ultimate dancing queen and while she unequivocally holds that title, she’s also my big sis. Growing up, I remember being her little copycat; whether it was dressing up in Indian clothes just for fun, putting makeup on when I had absolutely no where to go, or doing nakhras all day long- I literally got my whole personality from her. Besides all that, I’ve also learned the importance of dedication and perseverance from her accomplishments. She’s an absolute queen at everything she does and I’m so grateful to have someone like her to look up to! So so excited to celebrate and partayy with the beautiful couple next year!!
Gopi Patel
Bridesmaid
I met Niya through my husband and instantly became friends over our love for singing and dancing! Her kind, generous, and inviting nature solidified our friendship. Over the last few years I had the privilege of watching the Niya and Rachit relationship flourish. They’re so beautifully quirky together completing one another.
Nida Ali
Bridesmaid
I have known the bride since middle school and consider her to be one of my oldest friends. My friendship with Niyati is definitely one where we always pick up where we left off as for the last few years we have not been always in the same city, but everytime we see each other it is almost as if that was not the case. I am so excited to be a part of Niyati’s wedding and I am so happy that she has found someone who matches her energy and her vibe as Rachit does. From our random middle school memories, to our adventures at Wonderland when we were younger, to growing up together and partying it up, I have had some of the best times with Niyati and love her to the moon and back <3
Shalini Desai
Bridesmaid
Niyati is and always will be my big sister. I can always count on her to give the right advice and guide me in the right direction. She is someone who I look up to everyday. Her strong mind and always going for what she wants inspires me to do that everyday. She can always put a smile on your face no matter what and she will always protect you. Aside from all the big sister roles, she is also the life of the party and keeps any moment fun! I can always count on her for anything and I’m so happy and thrilled for her that she found someone special in her life. Niyati, I love you and can’t wait to see you walk down that aisle ❤️
Purnima Patel
Mother of the Bride
Niyati, my daughter/best friend and bride to be, who knows and understands me very well. The day you said you want to go backpacking to Europe my heart beats stopped for a second. it was a reflection of a mixed feeling of your adventurous nature v/s my over protecting love for you. but I was confident knowing that you are smart and know how to be safe of your surroundings. Then when you said you found the "love of your life", again my heart beats stopped for a second. This time it was a mixed feeling of giving away my daughter v/s being happy for her future. After meeting Rachit and especially his family I felt that my daughter is going to the family who love her and welcome her as a daughter. Also who appreciates her personal values and sanskars she carries from her grandma and growing up with her and us. Niyati, you have always taken care of your parents and family. I never felt you being away from me studying abroad for many years. Please keep the same closeness with us and your new family. Love you and wish you all the very best stepping into the new chapter of your life.
Upendra Patel
Father of the Bride
Niyati is the most precious gift in my life. She always faces challenges and battles wisely with confidence. I wish you a jewel in the crown on your new phase. .May you always stop to help others along the way. Listen to your heart and take risks carefully.Always remember how proud you have made us. Only father and his princess know how much they love and care for eachother! Rachit ,welcome to our family.
Harish Goyal
Father of the Groom
After graduating from Dental School in 2015. Rachit got me a T-shirt on Father’s Day with a print Boss Dad Established 1988 A few years ago on December 13,1988, I felt like a Boss Dad on the top of this world holding little Rachit in my arms. Rachit has done everything to make me a Boss Dad. Rachit has a golden heart that truly loves and cares for family & friends. Cordial invitation to all family & friends! Let us all party at Rachit and Niyati’s Wedding!!!
Suman Goyal
Mother of the Groom
My fun loving son has always added fun to my life. He takes me bowling, golfing, and spends family time playing monopoly and other board games. What amazes me -- he knows my taste. I don't even have to look at the menu at any restaurant and before I know it, my favorite food is ordered and paid for. I was confident that the girl he would pick would be the most lovable, adorable, beautiful inside and out. He always makes my dreams come true. And raising a son like him has been a mothers dream because he makes it so easy. His giving heart and unconditional love for his family and friends shines through his actions and words daily As I said, he has always added fun. I am looking forward to the fun filled marriage in Cancun and I can't wait to dance with him.