Pooja Mago and her husband, Neeraj Sinha, have lived in Lake Forest for eight years. They are originally from India. In the age of digital connectivity, where love stories are often just a swipe away, theirs is a heartwarming tale that transcends the virtual realm and beautifully blends the virtual and the real. They found each other on a popular matrimonial website. What began as an online conversation soon blossomed into a meaningful connection as they started to discover shared values, dreams, and aspirations. After months of heartfelt conversations, they decided it was time to meet in person. The nervous excitement that accompanies a first meeting was amplified by the anticipation of meeting someone who felt like a kindred spirit. And, the rest is history. “It is unbelievable how life led us to the harmonious embrace of a second marriage. We see our story as an inspiration for those who dare to seek love and companionship in the digital age,” Pooja said.

 

The couple have two children. Their son Akshat (20) was born in India and their daughter Suhanee (16) was born here. Akshat is a student at the University of Kentucky and is majoring in finance. Akshat is a powerhouse of athleticism and determination. He thrives on the thrill of the game and the exhilaration of competition playing soccer, volleyball, and basketball and is also part of his university’s dodgeball team. Both siblings effortlessly glide between the worlds of art and athleticism. Suhanee is a Junior at Atherton High School. For the last eight years, she has been doing figure skating, where she gracefully spins, jumps, and pirouettes. She has earned a place in the skating community. She has been part of The Nutcracker on Ice production and has taken on increasingly complex roles over the years. Suhanee has also mastered the Indian classical dance form called kathak and her parents love to watch her delicate fingers dance across the piano keys.

 

The family also has a beagle named Shiloh who was adopted from the persistence of the two children who wanted an active and playful dog. Having no prior experience owning a pet, the family quickly learned how a pet can enrich their lives. “In a world that often demands seriousness, Shiloh is a perpetual reminder that sometimes, all we need is a dose of unadulterated fun and companionship. His energy is contagious; his intelligence captivating; and, his presence is a precious reminder of the simple joys that life has to offer,” Pooja says.

 

Pooja attended the University of Delhi and received her master's degree in French language and literature from there. She is the owner/instructor at Kumon Math and Reading Program of Middletown. Originating in Japan, Kumon is an educational philosophy and program founded on the belief that every student possesses the capacity to excel academically when given the right tools and support. This method, that focuses on math and reading, has been empowering students ages three and above from K to 12 for decades. Given her teaching background, she had previously volunteered at a Kumon location in Louisville where she thoroughly enjoyed working with the kids. She saw this as a perfect fit with what she wanted to do in life. After a rigorous screening and months of training, she obtained her certification as a Kumon instructor. The Kumon of Middletown has passed hands from one Lake Forest family to another. Kim Robinson had run this learning center for over 15 years when she decided to try something new in life and Pooja and Neeraj decided to take over. So, this center which has enriched the lives of so many families, remains very well within the Lake Forest family!

 

Neeraj Sinha is a senior executive in a large France-based global IT services company called Atos and holds a prominent position in the Americas business unit. He has an electrical engineering degree from India and an MBA in finance & strategy from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Neeraj is passionate about cooking, loves experimenting, and his culinary skills are well-known amongst their family and friends. He is also into mixology so if you want to try new cocktails you know where to come! This down-to-earth couple loves to socialize and thoroughly enjoys hosting parties and get-togethers. Their work keeps them both busy during the week, but they love to go out and have “we” time once a week, trying new restaurants and bars.

 

The family's tradition of celebrating Diwali and Rakhi serves as a reminder of the importance of family, love, and cultural heritage. On Rakhi day, they gather as a family, and Suhanee ties "rakhi” (ceremonious thread) on Akshat’s wrist for his well-being. In return, the Akshat promises to protect and cherish his sister. This symbolic gesture deepens the bonds of sibling love. Then as we all settle in with the fall season, this family starts preparing and decorating their house for Diwali. Diwali is the festival of lights and time for celebration that includes inviting friends and families over and enjoying delectable sweets and savory dishes. Of course, the fireworks are the most anticipated event of the evening for elders and kids alike! The family also gets together at least once or twice a year where everyone gets to meet with their aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins. Meeting up during Derby time here in Louisville has become a family tradition and one of the most anticipated reunions!

 

Pooja and Neeraj are regulars at the Hindu Temple of Kentucky. They take part in all of the temple’s religious and traditional festivals and their children volunteer at their events. The family is also involved in various fundraising activities for the Louisville Skating Academy that helps subsidize and make the sport affordable & accessible to many. Both Suhanee and Akshat volunteered and later worked at the senior living. They not only learned the true meaning of empathy and compassion but also the experience instilled in them a sense of gratitude for what they have. “They learned to find joy in the simple pleasures of life and just enjoy the present. This has truly been a highlight of their lives,” Pooja tells us.

 

The family describes living in Lake Forest as, “a beautiful & scenic community that is bubbling with activities all year round.” They love the events by the pond, food trucks, pool movie night, and all the community events. Pooja says, “We truly feel blessed to find people here who are friendly and eager to help.”