Bhubaneswar, Nov 25: In a dramatic turn of events, an Odia girl adopted by a U.S. couple has returned to India, choosing love over the comfort of her life abroad.

Sejal John, originally named Puja, had earlier created a storm on social media by claiming she was being tortured by her adoptive parents and forced to convert to Christianity. She alleged that her life was in danger in the United States.

However, the truth unfolded at Bhubaneswar Airport, where Sejal admitted that the allegations in her viral video were fabricated. Her real motive was not escape from abuse, but a heartfelt desire to reunite with her childhood companion and teenage sweetheart, Amar of Balasore.

The love behind the lies

Sejal had left Odisha at a young age after being adopted into a family in the U.S. While she adjusted to her new life, a connection to her past resurfaced years later when she reconnected with Amar through social media during her 12th grade. Their friendship rekindled instantly, blossoming into a deep emotional bond.

Distance, time, and cultural shifts could not dim their affection. Sejal longed to return to Odisha, not out of fear for her safety, but out of love—yet she felt unsure about sharing this truth with her adoptive parents.

“I want to live with Amar, whom I have loved since my school days,” she confessed upon arriving in Odisha.

“I didn’t do well in America, so I told a lie to return home,” she said.

A viral video

In an act of desperation, Sejal recorded an emotional video alleging mental and physical torture and pressure to convert religion. The video spread rapidly across social media, drawing public sympathy and triggering official action.

Amar, heartbroken and distressed by her claims, repeatedly appealed to the state government and central authorities to rescue her. The clip prompted intervention from the State Adoption Resource Agency, the Central Adoption Resource Authority, and even drew the attention of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Truth, gratitude, and a painful apology

Upon her return, Sejal publicly retracted her allegations, expressing deep gratitude to her adoptive mother and clarifying that she had never been subjected to any abuse.

“My mother has never tortured me in any way. She is affectionate and loving,” Sejal said. “I don’t want her to get into trouble because of my actions.”