Pics: Sumanth Poojary

Daijiworld Media Network – (TP)

Udupi, Aug 23: The State Home for Women in Nittur transformed into a wedding hall on August 23, 2024, as the Department of Women and Child Welfare organized a wedding ceremony for one of its inmates.

Khushbu Sumera (21), a resident of the home, married Madhuraj A D (29) of Thirthahalli, in a ceremony attended by Dr Vidya Kumari, deputy commissioner of Udupi, and Siddalingappa, additional superintendent of police.

Dr Vidya Kumari, who performed the wedding rituals and blessed the newlyweds, said, “Three months ago, the groom’s family approached us with a proposal. After obtaining permission from both the bride and groom, we made the necessary arrangements for the wedding. The government has a facility to deposit Rs 20,000 for the bride, which has been issued to her. This is the 25th wedding to take place here. We only initiate weddings after a thorough background check. Many donors have contributed by sponsoring. Of the Rs 20,000, Rs 15,000 will be deposited in the bride's account, and Rs 5,000 will be allocated for wedding expenses."

Pushparani, superintendent of the State Home for Women, added, “Today, we are celebrating the 25th wedding with the support of the government and donors. After receiving approval from the district management committee and with departmental funds, the wedding was organized under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner. The proposal was accepted following police verification and the completion of official procedures.”

Khushbu Sumera, who grew up in the state children's home and later in the state women's home, completed her second PUC and began working at the District Child Protection Unit. Madhuraj A D, a graduate, works as a farmer and caterer and lives with his family in Shivamogga, Thirthahalli.

The ceremony was attended by the groom’s relatives, local authorities, friends, and well-wishers, marking a significant and joyous occasion for the state home.