Veteran journalist Irshad Bhatti and TV host Sama Raj have, for the first time, publicly shared their journey from professional acquaintances to life partners. The couple appeared together on Waseem Badami’s Eid-ul-Adha special program ‘Masoomana Show’, where they candidly opened up about how their bond grew over time.
During the program, Sama Raj recalled their first meeting, which occurred when Irshad Bhatti was invited as a guest on her show. “I asked him, ‘How do you express love?’ and he unexpectedly replied with, ‘I love you,’” Sama said with a smile. What began as a lighthearted moment eventually became the beginning of a deeper connection.
Over the next six to seven months, the pair developed a strong friendship that gradually transformed into mutual affection. According to both, their relationship progressed naturally, grounded in mutual respect and shared values.
In December 2024, the couple formalized their union through a simple nikah ceremony held at Lahore’s historic Badshahi Masjid, attended by close friends and family. Sama Raj later posted photos from the ceremony on her Instagram, writing, “Forever starts now..! ♥️ Alhamdulillah kaseera.”
The story, shared in a warm and honest tone on national television, quickly captured public attention. Social media users appreciated the couple’s transparency and the simplicity of their wedding, calling it refreshing in an age of extravagant celebrity ceremonies.
Irshad Bhatti, known for his political commentary on mainstream television, and Sama Raj, a rising name in the media industry, emphasized during the show that their bond is built on personal understanding rather than media hype.
Their appearance on the Eid special became one of the program’s most talked-about segments, with fans praising the duo for embracing love with dignity, privacy, and grace.