Blindian Love: Induja & Lionel’s Blended Family in Canada

Induja, a Sri Lankan Tamil bride, and Lionel, a Jamaican groom, on their wedding day in Canada — a vibrant Blindian celebration blending gold and fuchsia tradition with love across cultures.

The Beginning – A Sri Lankan Tamil Meets a Jamaican Gentleman

Lionel and I first crossed paths at a party — I accidentally stepped on his foot — and we were both struck by each other’s politeness. Our story began on Brock Road, where we later married at a beautiful temple, and where we still live today.

At the time, Lionel had two sons from a previous relationship. I struggled with the idea, even trying to end our relationship when I found out. I felt like a homewrecker, even though that relationship had long ended. But in my heart, I knew I would never meet another man with Lionel’s strong morality, kindness, and devotion to God.

Overcoming Challenges – Family Honour, Blended Parenthood, and Cultural Differences

I’m Tamil, born in Sri Lanka, from a conservative family who fled the genocide in our Motherland. My culture often judges harshly, and my parents value family honour above all else. My father — strict, principled, and disciplined — reminded me of my husband, and I hoped that mutual respect would grow between them.

Lionel, from beautiful Jamaica, had his sons living with their mother there. They were struggling and needed our help. When my parents first learned about the boys, they were sad for me, as though Lionel had betrayed me. But open discussions and seeing my commitment to doing the right thing changed their perspective. As war refugees themselves, they empathised deeply with the boys and welcomed them with kindness and understanding.

Today – Life in Canada as a Happy Blindian Family of Six

Induja and Lionel at home in Toronto with their four children — a joyful Blindian blended family built on love, resilience, and faith.

Lionel and I have two beautiful daughters together, and his sons have since immigrated to Toronto to live with us. In just two years, we grew from a family of two to a family of six — our daughters are only 18 months apart.

The boys have adjusted well to Canadian winters, are thriving at school, and have become sweet, protective big brothers. I feel blessed to have four wonderful children and a loving, hardworking, God-fearing husband. Marriage, family, and life aren’t always easy, but the sacrifices we make for others become the food and love our souls need. It’s extraordinary that two people from opposite ends of the world can unite in so much love. God is good all the time.

#BlindianProject

@indu2indo