From Afghanistan with love––Couple flees Taliban, marries. has kids in Indiana
Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada stop for a moment in a long day to see a neighborhood where they might want to buy a home Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Arzo Akbarzada, right, hugs her husband Sulaman Akbarzada's arm Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada walks through his apartment Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Salin Akbarzada plays in her bouncy chair as her father, Sulaman Akbarzada, sits nearby Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their home.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada pauses while talking about Afghanistan, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis. Sulaman says he can't go back. It would be a bad life for all of them, and chances are high that he would be killed.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Salin Akbarzada plays in her bouncy chair as her father, Sulaman Akbarzada, sits nearby Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their home.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Arzo Akbarzada gets ready to give her daughter, Salin, a bottle Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Arzo Akbarzada gives her daughter, Salin, a bottle Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indianapolis in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada, right, helps his daughter Helen get clean hands for lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Arzo Akbarzada, left, cooks. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada lifts his daughter Helen up for a hug Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada kisses his daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada lifts his daughter Salin up for a hug Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada shares a moment with his daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada tells his daughter Helen not to eat any more candy, while he holds his other daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada shows a Quran, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. He and his family are Muslim, but he tries to learn about all the religions including Christianity and Catholicism. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada shows a book he read about religion Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. He and his family are Muslim, but he tries to learn about all the religions and many perspectives. Sulaman and his wife, Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada, holding Helen, left, and Arzo Akbarzada, holding Salin, have lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada, holding Helen, left, and Arzo Akbarzada, holding Salin, have lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada hugs his wife Arzo Akbarzada goodbye as he heads off to work Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. He works as many hours as he can to support his family.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Arzo Akbarzada, left, shows some new outfits to her husband Sulaman Akbarzada, as their daughter Salin sits between them Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada looks out the window as he holds his daughter Helen, Saturday, March 22, 2025 in their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada looks at some of his favorite people, family and friends, in photos on the wall Saturday, March 22, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada takes a photo of office hours at a closed management office while stopping by a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada walks through a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada walks through a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. He loves the feel of this neighborhood in Greenwood. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
As Arzo Akbarzada holds Salin, she and her husband Sulaman Akbarzada pick out flowers, at Kroger, to bring to a birthday celebration for Arzo's father Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada stop at Kroger with their kids during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. They pick out a cake to take for a birthday celebration with Arzo's father. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada puts Helen back in her car seat to head to their next stop during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman Akbarzada, ight, puts Helen back in her car seat to head to their next stop during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo, left, changes Salin's diaper. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, with their kids, walk up the stairs to visit with famiily during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Helen Akbarzada, center, holds her grandmother, Najeba Sultanzad's hand as her uncle, Sohail Akbarzada, sits by her Saturday, March 22, 2025. Her parents, Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Helen Akbarzada plays with her grandmother, Najeba Sultanzad, Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of their families now live in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Salin Akbarzada holds her grandmother Najeba Sultanzad's hand Saturday, March 22, 2025. Her parents, Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Helen Akbarzada sits with her grandfather, Ghulam H. Sultanzad, from left, and uncle, Sohail Akbarzada, while her parents and sister are nearby during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of the family is now in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Arzo Akbarzada's father, Ghulam H. Sultanzad, right, lights his birthday cake candles at his birthday celebration with family Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Helen Akbarzada watch. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of the family is now in Indianapolis and area.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Jamila Crook, right, talks with Sulaman Akbarzada and his daughter Salin, Saturday, March 22, 2025 during a party. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Jamila Crook talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Jamila Crook, right, talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada, left, came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Jamila Crook, holding Helen Akbarzada, talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis.
Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
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Indianapolis Star
2 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
From Afghanistan with love––Couple flees Taliban, marries. has kids in Indiana
Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada stop for a moment in a long day to see a neighborhood where they might want to buy a home Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Arzo Akbarzada, right, hugs her husband Sulaman Akbarzada's arm Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada walks through his apartment Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Salin Akbarzada plays in her bouncy chair as her father, Sulaman Akbarzada, sits nearby Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their home. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada pauses while talking about Afghanistan, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters were born in Indianapolis. Sulaman says he can't go back. It would be a bad life for all of them, and chances are high that he would be killed. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Salin Akbarzada plays in her bouncy chair as her father, Sulaman Akbarzada, sits nearby Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their home. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Arzo Akbarzada gets ready to give her daughter, Salin, a bottle Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Arzo Akbarzada gives her daughter, Salin, a bottle Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indianapolis in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada, right, helps his daughter Helen get clean hands for lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Arzo Akbarzada, left, cooks. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada lifts his daughter Helen up for a hug Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada kisses his daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada lifts his daughter Salin up for a hug Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada shares a moment with his daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada tells his daughter Helen not to eat any more candy, while he holds his other daughter Salin, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada shows a Quran, Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. He and his family are Muslim, but he tries to learn about all the religions including Christianity and Catholicism. Sulaman and his now wife, Arzo, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada shows a book he read about religion Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. He and his family are Muslim, but he tries to learn about all the religions and many perspectives. Sulaman and his wife, Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada, holding Helen, left, and Arzo Akbarzada, holding Salin, have lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada, holding Helen, left, and Arzo Akbarzada, holding Salin, have lunch Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 at their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada hugs his wife Arzo Akbarzada goodbye as he heads off to work Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. He works as many hours as he can to support his family. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Arzo Akbarzada, left, shows some new outfits to her husband Sulaman Akbarzada, as their daughter Salin sits between them Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada looks out the window as he holds his daughter Helen, Saturday, March 22, 2025 in their Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada looks at some of his favorite people, family and friends, in photos on the wall Saturday, March 22, 2025 at his Indianapolis home. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada takes a photo of office hours at a closed management office while stopping by a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada walks through a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada walks through a neighborhood to look at possible homes to buy Saturday, March 22, 2025. He loves the feel of this neighborhood in Greenwood. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar As Arzo Akbarzada holds Salin, she and her husband Sulaman Akbarzada pick out flowers, at Kroger, to bring to a birthday celebration for Arzo's father Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada stop at Kroger with their kids during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. They pick out a cake to take for a birthday celebration with Arzo's father. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada puts Helen back in her car seat to head to their next stop during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman Akbarzada, ight, puts Helen back in her car seat to head to their next stop during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo, left, changes Salin's diaper. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, with their kids, walk up the stairs to visit with famiily during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Helen Akbarzada, center, holds her grandmother, Najeba Sultanzad's hand as her uncle, Sohail Akbarzada, sits by her Saturday, March 22, 2025. Her parents, Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Helen Akbarzada plays with her grandmother, Najeba Sultanzad, Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of their families now live in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Salin Akbarzada holds her grandmother Najeba Sultanzad's hand Saturday, March 22, 2025. Her parents, Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada, relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Helen Akbarzada sits with her grandfather, Ghulam H. Sultanzad, from left, and uncle, Sohail Akbarzada, while her parents and sister are nearby during their full day of errands and visiting Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of the family is now in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Arzo Akbarzada's father, Ghulam H. Sultanzad, right, lights his birthday cake candles at his birthday celebration with family Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Helen Akbarzada watch. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. They married in Indiana. Their two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Most of the family is now in Indianapolis and area. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Jamila Crook, right, talks with Sulaman Akbarzada and his daughter Salin, Saturday, March 22, 2025 during a party. Sulaman and Arzo relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Jamila Crook talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Jamila Crook, right, talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Arzo and Sulaman Akbarzada, left, came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar Jamila Crook, holding Helen Akbarzada, talks to friends and family during her going-away party Saturday, March 22, 2025. Sulaman and Arzo Akbarzada came to the party. They were relocated to Indiana in 2021 fleeing Afghanistan when the Taliban took over. Crook met the young Afghan couple at Camp Atterbury when they were there as part of U.S.'s Operation Welcome Allies which temporarily settled over 7000 Afghan at Campn Atterbury. Sulaman asked Crook to help them get married. She started the ball rolling to help them. They married at the Camp and later married again in Indianapolis when they had a marriage certificate. Sulaman's and Arzo's two daughters, Helen and Salin, were born in Indianapolis. Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar
Indianapolis Star
2 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
Doyel: Emotional week: Mourning Jim Irsay, honoring Herb Simon, tracking Tyrese Haliburton
Here comes a peek behind the curtain, as I call these occasional notes – these glimpses into the way I do my job – I share with my text message group here for IndyStar readers Colts owner Jim Irsay died a few weeks ago, as you know, and his funeral was last week. It was closed to the public, but I was invited. An honor? Put it like this: The Pacers won the Eastern Conference Finals in six games, but had there been a Game 7 in New York, it would have conflicted with the funeral – and my bosses and I agreed: Go to the funeral, not to NYC. What I wrote showed sides of Mr. Irsay most people didn't know about, or went deeper into areas most people knew about only on the surface. And I include myself among 'most people.' Ten people spoke at the funeral – including one former Colt, all three of his daughters, a childhood friend, and a local man Mr. Irsay met at a 12-step meeting – and I learned so much more than I thought I knew. In the here and now, I realize the Pacers are in the 2025 NBA Finals and the funeral was last week, but again – I was prioritizing the funeral over Game7 in New York City. I'm definitely prioritizing it, here, as the most important part of this week's Mailbagg. From: Randy R. You made me feel as if I were at Jim's funeral. Along the way you told me words about the man I would have otherwise never known – a good man whose death I now grieve. You dove deep and returned with pearls. I also discovered that I love everything Jim Irsay loved. He was not your typical professional sports team owner, unless there are other stories out there yet to be told. My oh my, Randy. Talk about pearls. This is a beautiful note. Thank you. From: Jim L. Seems to me that, while Jim Irsay's contributions to our community were recognized, the breadth and depth of the void will be felt in the future. Maybe best summarized by Joni Mitchell: Don't it always seem to goThat you don't know what you got 'til it's gone? There will never be another Jim Irsay, not here or anywhere else, but I have faith that his daughters will carry his legacy. This is a family that cares about our state, our city, our marginalized. From: Tim B. I'm stunned and in tears. What a lovely tribute. Thank you Tim. Like the story I wrote after Tyler Trent died in 2018, I got through the writing of this story just fine. I compartmentalize when I write. But when I finish, I cry too. From: Jan C. Coming from an alcoholic home, it's hard for others to grasp how loving and fun that dad can also be. And our family secrets really weren't secrets. Thank you Gregg for putting the experience into words. Pointing out his love of everyone that crossed his path is such a good reminder to me how I can do better each day. Might start crying here, Jan. From: Leigh H. I happened to have a volunteer training at St Luke's after the ceremony. I took a moment in the parking lot to read your piece and wish him Godspeed. What a final kindness for his family to share part of today with all of us through you. I was thinking over the weekend how lucky we are for the Simon family's enduring contribution to our city's sports scene as well. We as a city should always be grateful for the commitments of both families, and for their generosity to the needy among us. Would that we each could reflect that spirit to our neighbors just a little in the coming week. Your first sentence suggested you have large heart. Every sentence that followed was confirmation. From: Jolene M. Thank you for weaving together the complex threads of Jim Irsay's life into a lovely tapestry. I know you weren't responsible for what was included in the private service, but you made it come of life for those of us who were not there. RIP, Jim Irsay, God Speed. Thank you Jolene. That room was a special place to be. John Mellencamp, Pete Ward, his daughters, Edgerrin James, the friend from a 12-step program … an incredible scene. I wanted to share it. Doyel on Jim Irsay's death: Jim Irsay died and we're less for it; Indianapolis, the Colts, all of us Doyel on the funeral: Irsay loved his daughters, his Colts, his music, his city Re-live the Pacers' unbelievable run to the NBA Finals with our commemorative book From: Chris B. Rick Carlisle is a class act, from any perspective. Your story finally clears up the muddy media trolling I'd been reading about. As usual, your writing, as well as Carlisle's ethics, touch a positive emotional chord in my heart. I'm an expert on trolling, or at least, on trolls. Immersed in them. Surrounded by them. Praying for them, if you can believe it. From: Rick W. "That cesspool of malice and misogyny." Well written, Gregg! That was a reference to Twitter. And anywhere else the trolls, incels and losers congregate. I say prayerfully. From: Kathy M. I didn't know all that and you really told it well. Thank you so much for all this IN ADDITION to your other article. Not planned. I was walking to the locker room and walked past Doris. We met eyes and she nodded – we've known each other for 20 years, because of our shared college basketball experience – and I walked past. Then I thought: Dummy, THAT'S the story. Go back! So glad I did. From: Rick P. Just finished your heartfelt column on Carlisle/Burke. I'm not crying, you are! So very glad I did. Doyel: The story behind the story of Pacers coach Rick Carlisle defending ESPN Doris Burke On Game 1, where Tyrese Haliburton hit his fourth last-second shot of these playoffs… From: David M. Can we Pacers faithful send a group thank you to all the NBA players who voted Tyrese as "Most Overrated" and who are now lying on a beach somewhere with an umbrella drink watching the Finals on TV for their obvious motivation for what he's accomplished in these playoffs? Absolutely. From: Larry J. Can we just officially proclaim him "Houdini Haliburton? Now that's interesting, Larry. You wrote this after Game 1. But it was Game 2 where my lede was: 'This is the Tyrese Haliburton experience: Sometimes, most of the time, he pulls a rabbit out of a hat. But sometimes, other times, he makes himself disappear. Don't try to understand it, because he doesn't. If he did, you think this would happen? Those first three-plus quarters of the Indiana Pacers' 123-107 loss to Oklahoma City in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals?' And my kicker was … well you'll see. Chef's kiss! Not printing this. More from readers on Game 2… From: Tom S. Oh my goodness. What a lede! Spot-on & dad-joke!! Wait. How can it be great AND a dad-joke? And who says what I wrote about the rabbit, etc., was a dad-joke? And why are we hyphenating dad-joke? From: Craig E. You gotta like Carlisle. What other NBA coach calls his team an 'ecosystem'? Between he and Kevin Pritchard, there's a lot of IQ there. I wonder if they'd hyphenate dad-joke? From: Paul J. If any loss was a team loss, it was last night. To choose one player to blame is easy journalism, in my opinion. I agree with you 75% of the time, but not this time I hear you Paul. Not sure I was BLAMING Haliburton. Just pointing out the vast difference between his impact on Game 1 and Game 2. And when you're the only Olympian on the team, frankly, what I pointed out was fair. And listen to me: If you think it's 'easy' to criticize Tyrese Haliburton in this market – or frankly, any pro athlete in this market – I'd ask you to walk a mile in someone else's shoes. Not mine, of course. I'm a rock! Not printing this either. Doyel on Game 1: Pacers never give up, have a star who doesn't miss in clutch time Doyel on Houdini Haliburton: This one-man NBA playoff run has been borderline impossible Doyel on Game 2: After pulling rabbit from Game 1 hat, Haliburton disappeared much of Game 2 From: Robert J. Yep, Haliburton can be Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Maddening at times how extreme the differences in his play are at times. Fortunately, or unfortunately, we expect more from others and demand consistent high performance from our surgeons, chefs, teachers, pilots, linemen, engineers, etcetera, and especially our sports columnists. Thankfully, you consistently meet and exceed expectations and high performance, and at a salary that is a fraction of what the sport stars make. I love this ecosystem! Did I use that write? Not printing this. Find IndyStar columnist Gregg Doyel on Threads, or on BlueSky and Twitter at @GreggDoyelStar, or at Subscribe to the free weekly Doyel on Demand newsletter.
Yahoo
5 days ago
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Cameron Brink's Physical Appearance in Daring Bikini Photo Is Turning Heads
Cameron Brink's Physical Appearance in Daring Bikini Photo Is Turning Heads originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Los Angeles Sparks are in action on Friday night as they look to improve on their 2-4 record in a road matchup against the Las Vegas Aces. Advertisement The Sparks are coming off an 88-82 loss against the Atlanta Dream on Tuesday, and they will be looking to get back to winning ways when they battle reigning WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson and the Aces at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Vegas. L.A., however, will continue to be without last year's second-overall pick of the draft, Cameron Brink. The 23-year-old forward is still recovering from an ACL tear that cut her rookie season short, and she is expected to be back "some time in June." In the meantime, Brink has been working hard in the gym to stay in shape during her road to recovery. This was made abundantly clear after the 6-foot-4 forward posted a daring bikini photo on Instagram. View the original article to see embedded media. The photo, which is an ad for the soda brand Olipop, features Brink in a revealing orange two-piece bikini. The picture quickly turned heads on social media as fans expressed their reaction to Brink's eye-catching physical appearance. Advertisement "Those abs 🙌🔥❤️😍" a comment on Instagram read. "Damn gorgeous," said another. "What an absolute goddess!! 🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍" a supporter wrote. Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink celebrates with her teammates in a May 2024 matchup vs. the Indiana Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK "Abbbbbbbzzzz," reacted a user. "Dang she's in shape. Holy," another said. "She staying in great shape," agreed a fan. There is no official word yet as to Brink's return date, but it is clear that she's remained relevant among the supporters during her time away from the court. The former Stanford star should be back sooner rather than later, though, and there's no doubt that she's going to be making more waves once she does. Advertisement Related: Cameron Brink Had No Words After Sparks Beat Angel Reese, Sky Related: Cameron Brink Teases Bold Outfit Plans This WNBA Season This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
