New Delhi: Leaving behind life’s challenges and embracing new hopes and dreams, 21 specially-abled and underprivileged couples are set to begin a new chapter of married life. Organized under the aegis of Narayan Seva Sansthan, Udaipur (Rajasthan)—an institution that has been bringing happiness, dignity, and self-reliance to the lives of specially-abled and needy individuals for over four decades—the two-day free mass marriage ceremony commenced on Saturday at Golden Star Banquet Hall, Rohini Sector-12, New Delhi.
At the institution’s 46th Mass Marriage Ceremony, specially-abled and economically disadvantaged couples from various states across India will solemnize their marriages through traditional Vedic rituals on Sunday, taking the sacred seven vows and embarking on a lifelong journey together. The first day of the event was marked by traditional pre-wedding ceremonies that filled the venue with joy, emotion, and celebration.
At the auspicious hour of 5:30 p.m., the ceremony began with the installation of Lord Ganesha, accompanied by Vedic chants. This was followed by the traditional Haldi (turmeric) and Mehendi (henna) ceremonies. The excitement of a new beginning was evident on the faces of the brides and grooms, while their families expressed their emotions through tears of joy. For many of these couples, who have faced years of social and economic challenges, the occasion symbolized not just marriage, but also dignity, acceptance, and the fulfillment of cherished dreams.
Family members, guests, and volunteers from different parts of the country participated in the celebrations, applying haldi and mehendi to the couples and offering their blessings for a happy, prosperous, and successful married life. Women added color and enthusiasm to the event by performing traditional wedding songs, Ghoomar, and other folk dances. The entire atmosphere resonated with festive music, laughter, and heartfelt celebrations.
During the ceremony, hundreds of guests and dedicated donors were honored by Prashant Agarwal, President of Narayan Seva Sansthan; Vandana Agarwal, Director; and Devendra Chaubisa, Trustee, with traditional turbans, shawls, and mementos in recognition of their support and contributions.
The evening’s Ladies Sangeet and Cultural Program further enriched the celebrations with spiritual and cultural performances. Dance dramas depicting the divine stories of Radha-Krishna Raas, Rudravatar Hanuman, the nine forms of Goddess Durga, and Lord Shri Ram captivated the audience and created an atmosphere of devotion and inspiration. The festivities continued late into the night, with wedding songs and cultural performances adding to the joyous occasion.
Speaking on the event, Prashant Agarwal, President of Narayan Seva Sansthan, informed that all 21 couples will take their wedding vows on Sunday morning at 10:15 a.m. according to Vedic traditions, with the sacred fire as witness. The institution will also provide each newlywed couple with essential household items to help them begin their married life with dignity, confidence, and self-reliance.
He emphasized that a mass marriage ceremony is not merely the union of two individuals but also a powerful platform for promoting social harmony, equality, and human values. Such initiatives serve as a beacon of hope for specially-abled and economically disadvantaged families who often face financial and social barriers in performing one of life’s most important ceremonies.
The event stands as a meaningful example of compassion, inclusion, and community support, helping transform lives while reinforcing the values of dignity and social empowerment.