Christmas as Usual is a heartwarming movie that portrays the story of Thea Evjena, a Norwegian woman who introduces her Indian boyfriend, Jashan Joshi at a family gathering. As two cultures come together, tensions begin to rise, and a comical drama unfolds. So, is this Christmas flick based on a true story, or grounded in any facts and real events?
Is Christmas as Usual based on a true story?
Yes, Christmas As Usual is based on the true story of the director’s sister, Mia Holmsen, and her beloved Indian husband, Akshay Chawdhry. The narrative is loosely inspired by what unfolded on the Christmas Eve of 2020 when Mia first introduced Akshay to her family. The makers have taken a few creative liberties to dramatize the meeting, but the essence of it all is how an encounter between two cultures leads to them coming together, navigating differences, and seeking mutual understanding.
Christmas as Usual’s real events and facts explained
Mia and Akshya’s real-life story reportedly began when they met on a flight. Somehow, they were able to overcome the complexities and build a lasting relationship. The eventual acceptance that we see in the movie, is also rooted in real events that transpired between Mia and Akshay. The array of emotions and intricacies involved between the two love birds are authentically portrayed in the film. Christmas as Usual is a beautiful exploration of intercultural relationships that capture the essence of familial bonds, and the road to acceptance.
The real people behind Christmas as Usual’s characters
Akshay and Mia tied the knot in November 2022 and reportedly had two culturally explosive weddings, one of which was held in Goa. A conversation on a flight grew into an attraction, that later blossomed into a relationship, and eventually, marriage. The couple is settled in Oslo, Norway for now, where they spend their precious time with each other, and their two fur babies.
Is Thea Evjena a real person?
Thea Evjena is a fictional character based on Mia Holmsen, who hails from Norway. Mia is a smart and successful businesswoman, who attended the University of Essex and Hult. As of now, she is the CEO and Co-Founder of Youstain, a company that focuses on sustainability.
Is Jashan Joshi a real person?
Akshay Chawdhry is the real-life person who inspired the fictional character, Jashan Joshi. Akshay hails from Kolkata, India, and is currently employed at Elkjøp Nordic as an Operations Specialist. Both of them seem to have a keen interest in business, as Akshay also has a bachelor’s in Finance and Global Business.
