Beltangady: 180 couples tie the knot at Dharmasthala
Daijiworld Media Network - Beltangady
Beltangady, May 3: The temple town of Dharmasthala was enveloped in festive spirit on Thursday May 2. The occasion was the 42nd annual free mass marriage ceremony, during which as many as 180 couples tied the knot.
Dharmadhikari of Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala Dr D Veerendra Heggade blessed the couples and distributed sarees to the brides and dhoti and shawls to the bridegrooms.
The couples first visited Dharmasthala Temple, after which they moved towards Amrutavarshini hall in a grand procession. At the muhurat of 6.48 pm, the mangalsutra was tied amidst the chanting of holy verses. There were 11 couples from Kerala among the 180 who exchange marriage vows.
Addressing the gathering, Bangalore-based advocate H Billappa said that marriage is a sacred bond which leads to a secure life. The bond of marriage should never break, he said, while blessing the couples.
Actor Devaraj said he felt fortunate to be able to witness the annual mass marriage ceremony at Dharmasthala, which is held for the common good of people. "The couples who get married here should lead an ideal, fruitful wedded life and be an example to all," he said.
Dharmadhikari Dr Veerendra Heggade said that the first free mass marriage ceremony at Dharmasthala was organized in 1972, and since then, the annual event has brought about a social revolution. "It is heartening to see the example set by Dharmasthala being followed by others in organizing free mass marriage ceremonies in different pockets of the region," he said.
"There should be religiosity, understanding and restraint in married life. Marriage ceremonies should be simple and not lavish and extravagant. Married life is losing its value because of the influence of movies and television," he said.
After seeking divine blessings, the couples had lunch and left for their respective towns.
Rs 9,400 was spent on each couple, including Rs 6,500 for mangalsutra, Rs 450 for saree and Rs 200 for shawl, dhoti and on rituals.
Around 300 people witnessed the event.
Birla company working president G Jayaraman, D Surendra Kumar, and D Harshendra Kumar were present.