From 'sanskari bahu' to husband killer: The double life of Sonam Raghuvanshi - 'Kept fast for Raja, but...'

Raja and his wife Sonam Raghuwanshi

Sonam Raghuwanshi, a 24-year-old graduate from Indore’s Kushwah Nagar, once dreamt of pursuing an MBA and expanding her father’s plywood business, according to a report by The Indian Express. Today, she stands accused of conspiring to murder her husband, Raja (28), during their honeymoon in Meghalaya.

Police allege that Sonam, along with Raj Kushwaha (21), a former employee of her father’s factory, hired contract killers to execute the crime. The case has sent shockwaves through the city, revealing a tale of stifled ambitions, secret relationships and a marriage arranged through tradition.

Sonam grew up in a conservative household where her movements were closely monitored. Her father, Devi Singh Raghuvanshi, who built his plywood business from scratch after moving from the nearby Guna city, enforced strict rules. “We never allowed our daughter to go out or talk to random people. Her life was only work and home,” he was quoted by The Indian Express.

Though she reportedly played a role in the family business, her aspirations for higher education were quietly dismissed. “She once mentioned wanting to pursue an MBA, but this was shelved when her family made it clear her place was within their business,” a senior Madhya Pradesh police officer was quoted by The Indian Express as saying.

It was during this time that Sonam reportedly met Raj Kushwaha, who worked in the billing department of her father’s factory. Their interactions, initially professional, allegedly turned into a covert relationship, one her family claims they knew nothing about.

When it was time for marriage, the family turned to the Samaj Parichay Pustika, a community matrimonial directory. Raja, the youngest son of a transport business family, seemed a perfect match. Raja’s mother, Uma, recalled, “We were not in a hurry, but they wanted the wedding in four months.”

Sonam, described as a “sanskari bahu” (traditional daughter-in-law), appeared subdued during the May 11 wedding. She observed fasts for her husband, spoke very little and was often on her phone. The family never interfered, as they wanted her to have as much freedom as possible, according to Raja's mother, Uma.

Although there were no initial plans for a honeymoon, Sonam insisted on taking a trip. She booked one-way tickets to Meghalaya and convinced Raja to wear expensive jewellery, despite his mother advising against it. Uma recalled that this was the only time Sonam had ever been demanding. The couple never returned.

Raja’s murder has left both families in shock. Sonam’s parents have denied any knowledge of her alleged relationship with Raj Kushwaha. According to Raja’s mother, Uma, they were deeply offended when Kushwaha appeared at her son’s funeral, as per The Indian Express.

Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused in the murder case, was transported to Patna by road on Monday evening after surrendering to police in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. From there, she was flown to Kolkata and subsequently boarded a 9.20 pm flight to Guwahati. On arrival, Meghalaya Police escorted her out of the airport through the cargo gate and took her directly to Sadar police station in Shillong.