NEW DELHI: In a celebration of inclusion, dignity, and social empowerment, Narayan Seva Sansthan successfully organized its 46th free mass wedding ceremony in New Delhi, bringing together 21 differently-abled and economically disadvantaged couples in marriage. The event marked a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing efforts to support marginalized communities and promote equal opportunities for all.
Couples from several states, including Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, participated in the ceremony. Following traditional Vedic rituals, the newlyweds exchanged vows and completed the sacred seven rounds around the holy fire, symbolizing their commitment to a lifelong partnership.
The two-day event began with religious ceremonies, including the installation of Lord Ganesha and traditional pre-wedding rituals such as haldi and mehendi. Family members, guests, volunteers, and well-wishers gathered to bless the couples and celebrate the occasion. The atmosphere was filled with joy and cultural vibrancy as women performed traditional songs, folk dances, and Rajasthan’s renowned Ghoomar dance.
The ceremony also served as a platform to recognize the contributions of donors and supporters who have played a role in the institution’s social welfare initiatives. During the event, Narayan Seva Sansthan President Prashant Agarwal, Director Vandana Agarwal, and Trustee Devendra Chourasia honored hundreds of guests and benefactors with traditional turbans, ceremonial scarves, and commemorative mementos.
A major highlight of the program was the large-scale distribution of household essentials to the newly married couples. The institution provided items necessary for starting a new family life, including beds, wardrobes, gas stoves, fans, mixers, and more than 100 varieties of household utensils. In addition, several donors from Delhi contributed gifts and other useful items to support the couples as they began their married lives.
Addressing the gathering, President Prashant Agarwal said that all 21 couples had solemnized their marriages according to Vedic traditions in the presence of sacred fire. He emphasized that the institution had also provided each couple with essential household items to help them begin their journey toward self-reliance and dignity.
He noted that mass wedding initiatives represent much more than the union of two individuals. According to him, such programs strengthen social harmony, equality, and humanitarian values while offering hope to differently-abled and financially challenged families who often face difficulties in arranging marriages because of social and economic barriers.
The ceremony also highlighted several inspiring personal stories that reflected resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
One such story was that of Shibu Kumar and Geeta Kumari from Jharkhand. The couple had been together for the past two years but faced numerous challenges in formalizing their relationship. Shibu lives with deformities in both legs, while Geeta has a disability affecting her right leg. Financial limitations and family circumstances made it difficult for them to marry.
Seeking assistance, the couple approached Narayan Seva Sansthan. The organization helped Geeta receive medical support and provided Shibu with modern calipers, significantly improving his mobility. Following these interventions, they were selected to participate in the 46th mass wedding ceremony.
Expressing her gratitude, an emotional Geeta said the institution had transformed their lives by giving them the opportunity to marry and establish a family together.
Another inspiring couple was Mukesh and Durga from Banswara. Mukesh lost his father and was raised by his mother, who supports the family through daily wage labor. Durga, meanwhile, underwent a successful leg operation through Narayan Seva Sansthan in 2009 and now works as a teacher in a private school. She has also faced family hardships, as her father suffers from mental illness.
Despite economic struggles and personal challenges, the couple remained determined to marry. Their selection for the mass wedding ceremony turned that dream into reality. Durga expressed heartfelt appreciation to the institution, recalling how it had first helped restore her health and had now helped fulfill her dream of marriage.
With the completion of this ceremony, Narayan Seva Sansthan has facilitated the marriages of 2,582 differently-abled and underprivileged couples to date. The achievement reflects the organization’s long-standing commitment to compassion, rehabilitation, and social inclusion.
The institution has earned national recognition for its humanitarian work. Founder was honored with the Padma Shri in 2008, while President received a National Award from President in 2023.
According to the organization, it has provided more than 39,388 free artificial limbs and facilitated free treatment for over 452,000 patients, underscoring its extensive contribution to healthcare, rehabilitation, and social welfare across India.
