PUNE: The grand annual event of ‘Mass Marriages’ at Punyadham Ashram, was held on December 15th, 2024. It was indeed a heartwarming experience for all who had the opportunity to witness these 15 couples, hailing from different parts of Maharashtra, tie the knot at a special Mass Marriage ceremony organized by Punyadham Ashram for the most needy section of our society, that too without any expense or dowry. This is the 9th year that this unique function has been organized, and to date over 150 couples coming from humble families have been wedded in a grand celebration.
The excitement, energy, and anticipation of over 2500 people at the venue were infectious, with it all the hustle-bustle of wedding arrangements, the sounds of shehnai, floral decorations, and the festive atmosphere everywhere in Punyadham.
The brides looked radiant in Gold-Red sarees and beautifully adorned jewelry, and the grooms smartly dressed in ‘Sherwanis, phetas & mojris’. The baraat procession of the grooms entered with all the baraatis dancing, while the brides’ families eagerly waited to welcome them. Finally, after the grooms joined their respective brides in the beautifully decorated mandap, the learned pandits started chanting the wedding rituals. The marriage ceremony was performed in traditional Maharashtrian antarpat, followed by the pheras and the kanyadaan ceremony, in the presence of esteemed guests.
“Every year Punyadham Ashram organizes Mass Marriage of girls whose families cannot afford the expenses of an elaborate wedding. The girls are supported to fulfill their dreams of having a beautiful wedding ceremony with their families & friends. This unique institution is trying to bring about a change in the mindset of the populace by discouraging the custom of dowry”, said Maa Krishna Kashyap, Chairperson, who has made ‘Service to God through Service to Humanity’ her mission in life!
The day became even more special with the gracious presence of eminent personalities who came to bless the couples.
After all the traditional rituals, it was time for the Chairperson Maa Krishna Kashyap, President Sadananda Shetty, the Trustees, and the special guests to bless the young couples with gifts and trousseau, consisting of household items, dinner sets, cooker, blankets, new sarees and salwar-kameez sets., to help the newlyweds start their married life. “Our best wishes are with the newlyweds and hope they find true happiness and togetherness in life”, said Maa Kashyap.
It was a delightful sight to witness those couples who were married a few years ago, come together to celebrate this special occasion. The guests were then treated to a lavish Maharashtrian lunch, which was enjoyed thoroughly by all.
The whole credit for this immensely noble initiative goes to Maa Krishna Kashyap, who meticulously planned this massive event which was perfectly executed. Without her dedicated support, gracious presence, and inspiration, none of the activities of Punyadham Ashram are possible.
