MP News:
Bageshwar Dham in Chhatarpur district saw the completion of 156 underprivileged brides' marriages on Friday. Orchestrated by Pundit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the emotional departure of the newlyweds, who clung to their host in tears, evoked a touching scene reminiscent of saying goodbye to a beloved older brother. Shastri bestowed his blessings on each bride.
The majestic event began with the warm welcome of brides and grooms, led by Bageshwar Dham's own Maharaj, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, accompanied by the vibrant beats of drums, followed by the sacred exchange of garlands on stage.
Distinguished guests on stage showered the couples with blessings before the traditional rituals unfolded beneath the mandap, their joy uncontainable as they completed the seven rounds of sacred vows, binding them together.
In an impressive gesture of generosity, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri celebrated the fifth grand wedding festival this year, bestowing a collection of 157 household gifts upon every couple. The assortment spanned from motorcycles to revered scriptures like the Ramayana and the Gita. Speaking with aajtak, the grateful couples praised Bageshwar Maharaj, expressing their reverence for him as a mentor, brother, and father figure.
Source: aajtak
Dhirendra Shastri expressed hopes for the following year, 2025, to steer away from gifting motorcycles and increase the number of couples, given the budget allows for more underprivileged girls to be wed; hence, plans are in place to marry 251 girls next year.
Source: aajtak
Special Note:
Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister Mohan Yadav joined the grand social wedding celebration, blessing the new couples. Emphasizing the significance of community marriages, he commended the organization and offered government assistance for future events, highlighting that societal contributions like these enrich cultural heritage.
Source: aajtak
In an interview, Dhirendra Shastri shared insights into the wedding festival's organization and financial support, which was drawn from the temple's offerings, painting a picture of communal harmony and shared auspice.
Envisioning the Future:
Next year promises an increase in the number of marriages, as the cost saved from eliminating motorcycle gifts allows for a broader celebration of matrimony, illuminating hope for more joyous unions among the underprivileged.
Expressing his heartfelt pride, Haryana's wrestling icon 'The Great Khali', gracing the occasion, highlighted the unique and exemplary nature of this social initiative for mass weddings.
Dignitaries Galore:
Alongside the blissful unions, the event was attended by top political figures and celebrities, adding splendor to the cultural festivity and underscoring the societal significance of such gatherings.
