Udaipur,Smiles that came after years of waiting, dreams of a shared future and the promise of a new beginning marked the opening of the 47th free mass wedding ceremony organised by Narayan Seva Sansthan for persons with disabilities and economically disadvantaged young men and women.
The two-day ceremony began Saturday at Seva Mahatirth, Leon's Ka Guda campus, with 50 couples participating in the celebrations. Dressed in yellow, the couples sat together on a stage decorated with yellow flowers, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Ceremony Begins with Ganesh Vandana
The celebrations began in the morning with the installation and worship of Lord Ganesha, followed by a devotional dance performance on Ghar Mein Padharo Gajanan Ji. Traditional haldi and mehendi ceremonies added to the festive atmosphere.
At 11:15 a.m., all 50 couples took their places on the stage at the Hada Auditorium, which was decorated with yellow flowers. Sansthan Founder-Chairman Padma Shri Kailash ‘Manav’, Co-founder Kamla Devi, President Prashant Agrawal and Director Vandana Agrawal, along with distinguished guests, formally inaugurated the ceremony.
Under the direction of Vandana Agrawal, guests participated in the traditional wedding rituals by applying haldi to the couples and joining the mehendi ceremony. Wedding songs, music and dance performances created the atmosphere of a large family celebration.
Service Contributors Honored
Former Indian Army Commander B.L. Bandhan of Agra and Rajesh Kanjani of Argentina, along with other social service contributors, were felicitated during the ceremony. Founder-Chairman Kailash ‘Manav’, President Prashant Agrawal, Director Vandana Agrawal and Jagdish Arya presented them with turbans, ceremonial stoles and mementos.
Indian Culture Showcased at Musical Evening
The first day's programme concluded with a women's musical and dance evening. Performances depicting Radha-Krishna Raas, Rudravatar Hanuman, the nine forms of Goddess Durga and Lord Ram of Ayodhya showcased various aspects of Indian cultural traditions.
Colourful costumes, devotional music and dance performances drew applause from the audience. The evening continued with wedding songs and cultural performances, keeping the Seva Mahatirth campus festive.
Seven Vows to Mark the Beginning of Married Life
Sansthan President Prashant Agrawal said the 50 couples will solemnise their marriages on Sunday at 11:15 a.m. according to Vedic rituals and take the seven vows around the sacred fire.
The Sansthan will also provide each newly married couple with essential household items to help them begin their married life.
Every Couple Carries a Story of Struggle and Hope
Each couple participating in the ceremony has a different story. Some have overcome physical challenges, while others have faced financial difficulties. For some, the occasion marks the end of a long period of loneliness, while for others it fulfils the dream of finding a life partner and building a family.
For the couples, the wedding represents more than a social ceremony. It marks the beginning of a new phase of life built on companionship, mutual support and shared responsibilities.
Their journeys reflect how individuals can continue to pursue their aspirations despite physical, financial and social challenges. The ceremony brings together couples who are beginning their lives with renewed hope and a sense of partnership.
Guests Visit ‘World of Humanity’
Guests attending the ceremony also visited Narayan Seva Sansthan's newly constructed ‘World of Humanity’ building. They toured various service projects operated by the organisation and interacted with patients undergoing treatment to learn about their experiences.
The visitors also received information about the Sansthan's rehabilitation, treatment and welfare initiatives for persons with disabilities and people in need.